@Kamryn DeVaultTo invest in a duplex, consider factors like neighborhood quality, economic stability, safety, property condition, cash flow potential, financing options, tenant screening, lease agreements, future potential, legal and zoning considerations, maintenance and management, networking, and starting small and scaling.

Another item to factor is cost.

I think the top factors are type of home (comparing single family to apartment is no longer done), overall size, and interior features like central AC, approximate age of renovation, etc.

No one mentioned this as a factor, but I assume this would severely limit/prevent me from deducting anything other than depreciation?

Even if the property is centered in a city with a population of 30k it may be considered rural due to other factors.

I'm curious, if you were to invest elsewhere, what areas would you consider and what factors would drive your decision?

Most fail to factor this in.I believe the fact no meaningful tax advantages exist saved you from going down a rabbit hole that would have been adverse to your business more generally.

So it's not the same as bank which might do 2-2.5x once debt payments are factored in. 

@Shaun Hunt Starting a property management company to manage your own properties could offer some tax advantages, but there are important factors to consider.

For experienced landlords, what factors should be prioritized when choosing landlord insurance?