Some lenders offer creative solutions, like a cross-collateralized loan, where they use your existing equity as security without refinancing the duplex.Another idea is partnering with private lenders or exploring a second-position mortgage, depending on your lender's terms.

that we’ve learned in our 24 years, managing almost 700 doors across the Metro Detroit area, including almost 100 S8 leases:Class A Properties:Cashflow vs Appreciation: Typically, 3-5 years for positive cashflow, but you get highest relative rent & value appreciation.Vacancy Est: Historically 10%, 5% the more recent norm.Tenant Pool: Majority will have FICO scores of 680+ (roughly 5% probability of default), zero evictions in last 7 years.Class B Properties:Cashflow vs Appreciation: Typically, decent amount of relative rent & value appreciation.Vacancy Est: Historically 10%, 5% should be applied only if proper research done to support.Tenant Pool: Majority will have FICO scores of 620-680 (around 10% probability of default), some blemishes, but should have no evictions in last 5 yearsClass C Properties:Cashflow vs Appreciation: Typically, high cashflow and at the lower end of relative rent & value appreciation.

If it's net positive, then make sure to do it up to code, etc so the finished square space can count.

I'm totally good with some sweat equity but I'm not in a position to do Roof, siding, structural repairs and such.

Place these footings strategically after you have jacked the house up to proper level.

Being in Arlington, you’re in a prime area for finding multi-family units with strong rental demand, so you’re in a great position to make this work.We’re excited to have you here and look forward to hearing more about your journey!

However, I had to subordinate the sellers note to 2nd position (hint: set up that language in advance to streamline the process, if that's the direction you're going to go).Since the ARV was high enough, and the potential income would support the mortgage and expenses, it all worked out. 

Luckily, my wife and would be in a position to buy their house from them at fair market value, if that is the best option? 

Roughly $600 per month in positive cash flow.What made you interested in investing in this type of deal?

Id go right into looking at local credit unions and small community banks for HELOCs (lines of credit) so you can have a lower blended rate and draw/payback as you please.For the 3F - Since this is free and clear, you would only be looking at 1st position options here in the world of financing.