Uncomfortable even thinking/asking this but how do I handle the turnover if he passes away?

Well even if the rent is equal to the mortgage, you'll still be in the negative after repairs, CapEx, vacancy, etc.Why would you specifically be thinking of investing at a negative cash flow?

Here are my key takeaways:Tenant Screening Matters: The challenges I faced with the garden unit tenants reinforced how critical it is to have a thorough screening process and not stray from your requirements.

However the difference may not be as significant as you think.

I would tend think the value of the duplex would be higher than your estimate, but I don't know the market.By the way, I just re-read one of your posts, you don't have to put 25% down on a rental.

One thing to think about are the tax implications of being a Canadian paying US taxes.

Not having experience qualifying prospects I would think that the leads you would get from here, if any, would be..... challenging. 

One of the issues I have noticed is that some people think of a flip house as being the cheapest possible rehab. 

In addition to conventional loans and FHA loans, if either you or your wife are veterans, the VA also has a rehab program.I'd be happy to discuss my rehab experience both as an investor and as a mortgage broker, and at least help you think through your options. 

I have multiple properties and am thinking of just doing non qm loans moving forward.