If so, there might be a way to make the HOA take care of the issue as it is part of everyone's sewer and not just yours.I would get it scoped out.

However, with your high W2 income and your partner’s weaker credit and cash flow, you might need to structure the agreement carefully.

I would read the PPM carefully, and understand how the Syndicator is getting compensated. 

Whereas owner occupant buyers are looking at comps, sold prices for similar nearby properties, and don't care about cash flow. 

@Brody Trott you'll want to run the numbers on as many duplexes in your chosen market as possible.

The bank will make you leave 25% equity in the property - but you also still want the property to at least cash flow some - so be careful how much equity you pull out / new debt you take on.I would do a cost benefit analysis of what your actual gain is in cash-flow on buying a new property with a (currently) higher interest rate (if financing), versus just holding on to the current appreciated property and enjoying that cash flow.All the best!

If you don't have money set aside for emergencies then you should tread carefully.

Coming from a health care background and Not having any previous experience in Real Estate or sales, I am having trouble getting the Bio started.  

With careful planning and local insights, Richmond can be a solid addition to your investment portfolio.Good luck!

However, you must take care of the reason why it's happening.  9 times out of 10, it's a leaky pipe behind the wall or a humidity issue.