Househack/Airbnb a Duplex

[Michael Nguyen]

Hi everybody,

I am a new investor planning to buy my first home (duplex) in Philadelphia to househack it.

It would be my home base, but I plan to travel 6-9 months out of the year, meaning my unit would be collecting dust when I'm gone. While I am away traveling, I was thinking I could use it for Airbnb. I could have my friend manage it, or Airbnb has staff you can hire.

Is this legal? Is this a flat out bad idea?

I would love to hear your thoughts. Thank you in advance for your responses. 

Michael N.