which multi-family to choose

[Carly Turow]

Does anyone have any recommendations or opinions about whether a first-timer should choose a duplex or fourplex?

I've had one real estate agent tell me (while I was painting her home) that for someone who's brand new, it's smarter to start with a duplex and that jumping right into a fourplex would be biting off more than you can chew.

I can imagine that's maybe because it's more work and responsibility.. but I'm wondering if there are other technicalities and details that a newbie may not realize right away that made her provide that suggestion. (?)

I understand that house hacking in your first duplex generally won't produce nearly as much cash flow as house hacking in a fourplex. So, what are the downsides of taking on a fourplex?

I appreciate any feedback and thoughts from this community :)