A duplex strategy is a low-risk entry, saving on living expenses.

., obviously the barrier to entry is different but so is the ARV.

Meet with financial advisers/wealth managers and see what other options other than real estate there are and how to best allocate / diversify. ie have you maxed out your TFSA?

I have some flexibility but rely heavily on my team for admin work and the day-to-day operations of property management.

Good to see a fresh face around.. how much research have you done on property management?

Diversifying geographically can also reduce risk and increase long-term returns.For example, there are several markets across the U.S. that are ideal for new investors because they offer affordable entry points, reliable cash flow, and strong economic fundamentals.

A scenario like that would likely result in getting your entire investment back upon refi and also a nice cash-flowing rental to manage.   

I am also a project manager and a architectural designer for a real estate developer in NYC. 

Something many new investors don't think about is that property managers usually negotiate volume discounts for some of this stuff.

To rent the home, I would lose about $2,500 per month (based on comparable rents in my area, property management fees, etc).Both options loose the same amount by roughly 2 years, and by this time, I still will not have built up much more equity in the home to make selling it a break even unless there is price appreciation by then.My dilemma is this: I speculate that my home will not appreciate much in the next 3-5 years due to the rapid pace of development in the surrounding area.In 5-10+ years, maybe, but by then I'll have bled $150,000 - $300,000.I have thought about this a lot and feel that I mar'-too close to the problem to see the best solution.