However, with the rates and conditions of any triplexes and fourplexes we could find (we did find one, but it's in the Pendleton Heights suburb of KCMO, so we were worried about it being too dangerous of an area), we were wondering if it's worth it to buy a duplex and rent out the other half to help pay the mortgage, or if it's more worthwhile to rent an apartment and try to save up to buy a residential or commercial MFH later?

Do not give them anything until they have 100% moved out and left property in condition you expected it to be in if you have not done so already I would inspect the unit now as well

Walkways are in good condition.

And better yet 80%+ of this asset class tenants are home owners by nature, divorcee's in process, there living standards are home-owner conditioned. 

Without this, it’s tough to calculate a realistic cash-on-cash return or DSCR (Debt Service Coverage Ratio).Condition of the Property: Are there any deferred maintenance or capital expenditures needed in the short term?

To be fair, they sold me the home, so as long as it ends up in the rentable condition noted in the purchase agreement, I see no responsibility on their part to stick around for another 2-3 years.

A mild recession is possible, but its impact on housing demand will depend on regional and economic conditions.

Capital always tends to be the sticking point, especially right now due to market conditions. 

If two funds need money for litigation support, that seems telling on the current financial condition.

Giving it a proper theme and left it in decent condition.