Inherited Tenants vs Empty Units in winter

[Anthony Wick]

Closed on another duplex in the Des Moines, Iowa area (Ankeny, 8 miles north). This duplex had some recent upgrades to flooring, painting, hot water heater, appliances, etc. Due to the upgrades, the seller sold this duplex empty. No tenants. So, I now need to fill both units in December, in Iowa. On the one hand it’s great to set all the parameters and pick the tenants. On the other hand, it’s winter and how many tenants will I have to choose from? It’s a B area (my opinion), 3 bedroom, 2 1/2 bath. Pretty nice duplex that should get $1,400 a unit. Or $0.00 in December.