Duplex Buy and Hold Strategy- Appreciation

[Amir B.]

Hi Everyone in the BP Community,

I am looking to purchase a duplex as my first property. I am looking to house hack. Unfortunately, I live in California and no way of living for free. The plan is to have the tenant pay down the monthly mortgage payment. 

My price point is $400,000. I am planning on using a FHA loan using 3.5% down payment.

I am looking in Sacramento county. 

My question is would someone buy in a more desired area or cheaper? One duplex is $290,000 and the other is $410,000.

Please advise.

Thank you.