Newbie introduction from Phoenix!

[Cory Palmieri]

Newbie here, came across Biggerpockets from a close friend. I’m a 30 year old Army Veteran and my day job is in Engineering. I’m giving myself a year to conduct research and stack up my savings for this new venture. I understand it is hard work, but I think the effort put in will be worth it based on everyone’s stories on this forum. I’m located in the Phoenix, AZ area and I want to start locally and expand from there.

I have an opportunity to purchase my first home, I'm an Army Veteran and plan on using my VA loan. I'd like to stop renting myself and have my own property and a garage. My current plan is to purchase a 3bdrm home with the intention of renting it out when I'm ready to upgrade to a bigger property.

Upon learning more about the real estate business, and bigger pockets; a lot of sources recommend going the duplex/multiplex route. Would it be counterproductive for me to purchase a single family home instead of the duplex? I’d love to hear your personal stories on this subject.