In retrospect, it's time to do these things to assess where you are and what needs to minimize collateral damage.  

In order to do so, I'd like to minimize my downpayment on the duplex I'm about to purchase.

My husband and I are working towards financial freedom, and on a personal level I have really embraced minimalism (in terms of not buying 'stuff' and not spending money on experiences that don't enhance my life).  

Unit B is fine but unit A was the one lived in by the previous owner.About 400SF of space, which included the entrance foyer and the kitchen, requires some "tweaking".The owner has lined the walls from floor to ceiling with dark wood panels with some elaborate trims.To the right, you can see a bar. 

This is because you as the investor/buyer gives them a way out of the dark place they are in (i.e. foreclosure, the verge of bankruptcy).

Otherwise, if the rehab is minimal to bring up to habitable conditions, you may make an offer of $80k or sub2 or wrap.

But yes, it may be a good idea to minimize your future capital gain taxes.

there is a federally mandated minimal interest rate. 

Most employers are smart enough to not verify more than the minimal info, we ask for pay stub copies later in the process if our screener can't verify employment.  

RISK: minimal as it is backed by a deed (home being occupied by and therefore taken care of), and a promise to repurchase the investment.