If you don't have the expertise to do the due diligence, bring in a broker for their opinion / aappraiser and a few contractors to look at the home structure/mechanical's.

I am an automotive mechanic currently making just shy of $30hr.

I think both a HELOC and a hard money loan are really something you should consider a bridge financing mechanism.

I'm 24, working in the Texas oilfields, have a Mechanical Engineering degree, and sitting on some cash.

Accessible cash for downpayment and capex, your financing mechanism what percentage downpayment?

I am not that concerned right now given I think there will always be mechanisms in place to avoid it (move into one of the units as an owner, move a family member in, do another renovation, etc) but want to make sure I am not making a big mistake here.Thanks all!

This duplex was flooded in the 2008 flood, so much of it was gutted with new mechanicals. 

In Franklinton there are plenty of large projects going on that will bring massive growth to the west side of Columbus, such as the Peninsula Development, which is a multiphase project that will erect a 24 story apartment complex featuring a grocery store, a multi use office space building, and a new hotel featuring a two-story Pins Mechanical venue.

I wanted to see if there was anyone local to Purdue University that is involved buying or selling real estate.I am an electrician with backgrounds in mechanics and control systems(more information in my profile) and id be more than happy to share my skills in return for mentorship or just to network.Otherwise I was wondering if there are investors in this area (Tippacanoe and surrounding) that could shed some light on this area regarding how difficult it may be or areas to stay away from. 

Those equitable gains can be tapped via additional finance mechanisms tax free, there in amplifying purchase power vs tax'd capital, or via an exchange.