Except you insist on giving the OP a "yes" based on the generic strategy (A) while I insist on giving him a "no" based on his specific situation (B).To answer your question to me - no, I'm not trying to be controversial.

This would help save me some money to use on the house that is getting renovated and I wouldn't have any money out of my pocket up front for the duplex except when the mortgage starts.

Maybe the exception is pro-sports, but even Frisco has minor league baseball, hockey, and major league soccer.   

Ive owned a 3 family in Fitchburg MA for 4 years that has done exceptionally well with it, living for free in one unit for a while and constantly upgrading the property over the years.

I have nothing good to say about Detroit either but who does except agents or PM telling people it is a good place to invest. 

Obviously, i left that dumpster fire and decided to work at the same type of job, except work in a remote atmosphere...

If it crashes hard enough, it impacts your personal finances, your relationships, and even your mental/physical health.With the exceptions of politicians and so-called charities, building wealth typically requires sacrifice and time.

But it so helps if they are simply rarely there except to sleep. 

Since you would be dealing with maintaining a gas tank I would have all electric except a gas fireplace. 

The exception is: When the 2 members are married spouses who reside in a community property state.