It has now been suggested that I should accompany this lady to the looney bin.

You’re on-site for maintenance issues or tenant concerns, which cuts down on the hassle of traveling to a separate location.Loan Accessibility: Getting a mortgage for a duplex can be easier than financing other types of investment properties because you can use the potential rental income from the second unit to help qualify for the loan.Tax Benefits: Owning a rental property can open up opportunities for various deductions like mortgage interest, property taxes, operating expenses, and depreciation.Disadvantages of Investing in DuplexesPrivacy Issues: Living so close to your tenants means less privacy.

Why would you have any care of concern about utilities?

Nader walked me through all of my concerns. 

Just sharing your experiences and thought process is great.We do Self storage development but the concerns are the same.  

I am also concerned about potential vandalism for one of the tenants. 

So most of them aren't concerned with cash flow and are frankly lucky to break even on these local programs. 

You need to study IRS Publication 523 concerning Sale of a Residence.

It's important to communicate your concerns with the agent and if you feel uncomfortable or suspect any unethical behavior, it may be best to consider finding a different real estate agent to work with.

For all your non-recourse lender is concerned, you are providing the 20% plus closing costs to the table (your skin in the game as far as the non-recourse lender is concerned).Trick to becoming a successful investor:  DON'T OVERTHINK, JUST DO IT!