Quote from @Aaron Zimmerman: Quote from @Bonnie Low: My current CPA came via recommendation from another investor.

House hacking a duplex is a solid way to get started in real estate while keeping your living costs low.

The low purchase price, combined with an established market demand, made this an ideal transaction for a fast turnaround and profitable outcome.

It all depends on your strategy, Phoenix is primarily a single family state so small-multi family is competitive with low supply.

We recently relocated to Phoenix last summer and I'm starting to look for recommendations for local credit unions here in Phoenix which are trustworthy, low rates, personal touch, easy/simple to work with, etc. 

The appraiser gave the house a low score so the bank said it is a risky investment for them and gave me a 70% loan.

We plan to stay in the new primary residence for a long time because we love the location, the neighborhood, and the land.

That seems low with the 5 units and storage you mentioned unless they are 1 bed units. 

Analyzing the neighborhood and the asset condition is the key to projecting accurate returns. 

I really would want to stay away from any office properties in depressed or even semi-depressed neighborhoods, especially large ones (like a 13 unit complex).