Many judges would feel you got paid even if no cash was sent to you.I could see this potentially working on a higher-end property that it in excellent condition with a Grade A tenant.  

This is how I see it:Single-Family Homes:Pros:Larger pool of potential tenants (families).Simpler management (one tenant, one lease).Often easier to finance.May appreciate faster in some markets.Cons:Only one income stream.Vacancy hits harder financially.Duplexes:Pros:Two potential income streams.Live in one unit and rent the other (house hacking!)

I haven't thought as far ahead as looking at potential areas to buy property.

Budget between 300K and 400K.Any areas that have the potential for a good cash flow?

A small multifamily property is a smart choice for a first investment—it offers a great balance of income potential and manageable scale for someone new to the space.Don’t worry about being ambitious; it’s clear you’ve done your homework, and you’re already ahead of the game by setting a clear goal.

Before purchasing a rental property carefully evaluate the appreciation potential.

The sellers had put so much pots, plants, planters and shrubs out that I thought there were too many plants/planters that would require a new owner to upkeep.After a few potential buyer tours/showings, the owner heard all the comments (via the security cameras) about how there was a "lot going on with the plants and stuff out front".

I’d love your input on whether this deal could appeal to investors and how best to structure it.Property Details:Worth: ~$300,000HOA: $273/month, Taxes/Insurance: ~$170/monthCurrent Rent: $1,880/month (long-term); next tenant advertised at $1,950/month.Mid-term rental potential: ~$2,400/month (I haven’t tried this, but it’s my estimate).My Financing Idea:Large down payment: ~$125,000 (This is my priority to reinvest elsewhere).Seller-financed balance: ~$175,000 at 4.25% for 30 years.Buyers take over taxes, insurance, and HOA.Questions:1.

Really interested in investing in this market and would accept a relatively low return (or even a break even scenario because i believe in continued appreciation potential here). 

One time I had a guest smoke and it went right up the ducts into my unit, it was awful.I'm conscious about how that could potentially affect guests who will be staying in the upper unit in the future.