Converting duplex to single family

[Chris Fowler]

Hello all.  I own a duplex that I currently rent as a STVR.  I am considering converting it into a single family unit(it will remain a STVR).  What is your opinion on doing this.  Do you think it will be more profitable as a single family unit or as a duplex?

[Andrea Cole]

What is making you consider doing this? We run a STR that's a duplex (2BR/1BA and a 3BR/1BA ) and I would NEVER convert it to a single. In fact, we've considered doing other STR in our area and really only consider multi-family properties since the return is so much better. Just like long-term, having both keeps us covered if something happens in one unit or if there's vacancy. Also, I noticed that despite only have 1 extra bedroom, our 3 unit definitely has more wear and tear. So I'm really liking smaller units as STR since they have been easier to manage in our experience, both from a cleaning and maintenance standpoint. Also worth mentioning, we're not in a tourist area. We're a regular college town with a decent influx of business travel as well.