From the information you offered, I researched The Land Method and can clearly see why Jonathan is the way to go.

We want to grow our real estate business to be able to quit our jobs.

Some lenders offer creative solutions, like a cross-collateralized loan, where they use your existing equity as security without refinancing the duplex.Another idea is partnering with private lenders or exploring a second-position mortgage, depending on your lender's terms.

Durham tends to offer slightly better cash flow opportunities compared to Raleigh, especially if you’re targeting neighborhoods that are up-and-coming but still affordable.

I believe the price points of the apartment units will dictate appliance specs/packages but appliances are something I always upgrade over those offering competing units.

@Eli Jerman Owning a duplex where you live in one unit and rent out the other offers significant tax benefits but adds complexity.

Additionally, many states offer property tax exemptions, significantly reducing expenses.

Brokers look out for their clients, insurance agents look out for their job.

experience: I’m on my 3rd flipage: early 40sday job: brand and web design/development retirement savings: noneI want to learn about buy and hold to secure having SOMETHING for retirement!

If for some reason this falls through should I attempt to offer more money for a quit claim deed or proceed with the newspaper notification process.