House hack a duplex or get a VRBO -- first investment

[Dan Froilan]

My wife and I just moved here from Arizona and we moved to invest in real estate we now live in Missouri and are wondering if we should buy a duplex in the Columbia Jefferson City area or go for a short-term rental is like Airbnb around lake of the Ozarks. We need help on we need help deciding on what our first investment property will be.

[Chelsea Mastin]

@Dan Froilan I was in the same situation and decided to go with the duplex.

Happy I did because the city I live in (Denver) has implemented new laws that make it difficult to rent short term rentals. The city doesn't like them, neighborhoods don't like em. If you get a bad neighbor they can make your live a living hell.

That being said, my father owns a couple short term rentals in Como, CO and does very well. Short term rentals require much more TLC. A TON of TLC. You are dependant on good reviews and have to hold lots of hands. They can be VERY profitable, but they are a JOB.

I'm wanted more of a "passive" route myself.

Good luck to you!!!