I decided to stay local with my investing for now and focus on condos/townhomes or live in flips.

One more tip hit town homes and condo communities in the area.

Looking to find duplex or something along those lines to reside in and then eventually move upward.

Just to confirm my understanding, you are living in a side by side duplex in Miami - you want to renovate the other side that you aren't living with a renovation loan?

I own a duplex in Clermont, FL just outside of Orlando and initially wanted to split water meters between the two units, but the cost and amount of work were higher than expected.

I assume that's the same for a duplex? 

Use the two years to learn the area and I would suggest as soon as you can, find a duplex and start a house hack. 

Me and my wife have decided to sell our first duplex deal after 4 years of holding it we have built over 250k of equity wow ! 

Many investors start with a multifamily property, like a duplex, as living in one unit and renting out the other can offset your mortgage and reduce vacancy concerns.Take your time running the numbers and researching neighborhoods—you're off to a great start!

Cash flow approximately 350 a month.Option 2: Use the cash to buy land to build a 6 bed 4 bath duplex, all in cost approximately 300k/330k.