FHA Loan - Accepted New Job Out of State Prior to 1 Year OO

[Ken Cunningham]

Hi BP, 

I bought a duplex outside of Cleveland about 6 months ago using an FHA loan. It is currently just me in the place as the renters in the other unit that came with the mortgage were loud and obnoxious and I haven't gotten around to getting new tenants in there since I ended their month-month lease 2 months ago.

I was just offered a really really great employment opportunity outside of Los Angeles.

Here's my question: I know that FHA loans require owners to occupy the residence for 1 year prior to renting out said property. I also know there is an exception to FHA loans that says if you accept a job more than 60 miles outside of your current residence than you can qualify for an additional FHA loan. BUT if I move more than 60 miles outside of my current job does that qualify me to rent out both units in my current duplex?

If not, I guess I just gotta sell the place?  I would love to hire a property manager and make $200-300 bucks a month off the place after expenses while paying off the principal.

Thanks in advance!

-Ken