Is there a sweet spot in small multi-family?

[Evan DeVisser]

There are many factors in small multi family that can really juice up the deal; however, there are also many that kill the deals cashflow as well. Which of the two options do you prefer and why?

Option 1. Buying a single family home that was made into a duplex built in the early 1900's for $175,000. 

Option 2: Buying a true duplex built in the late 1970's for $225,000. 

My experience has been that a 100-120 year old home has been cobbled together 5 different times by 5 different contractors over the years so any repairs turn into major projects. I just wanted to see what seasoned investors had to say about long term headaches for the two scenarios and long term cash flow.

Thanks in advance.