But the rents don't justify it, for example we are renting a 3 bed 2 bath house with a huge backyard in rancho Cordova for 2350/mo, so duplex rents around here are 1800-2200 ballpark.

Job included inside work of leveling floors, installing flooring, paint walls, kitchen cabinets, etc in both units, as well as lay a new driveway, fence the back yard, provide attic fans, and install electric to the crawlspace to add lights and a sump pump.

I've lived in Alaska, Idaho, Utah, Arizona, and California(current residence), and analyzing deals in my "back yard" at each location usually ends with me paying out of pocket to own a rental. 

I have been in Milwaukee WI for quite a while as investing in my backyard in NY is cost prohibitive. good luck on your journey!!!! 

Since it’s a new build, I was able to negotiate some great perks, like a 5.875% interest rate, no closing costs, a fridge, blinds, and even a backyard firepit.Pros:Good school districtLow interest rateMinimal CapEx and repairs (because it’s a new build)Low insuranceHigh-quality tenants (due to the school district and being a new build)Cons:Lots of new builds in the area, which could drive down prices and increase vacanciesThe Numbers:Price: $290KInterest Rate: 5.875%Down Payment: 25%Monthly Mortgage + Insurance + Taxes + HOA: $1,480 (I got really low insurance since it’s a new build and Alabama’s property taxes are low)Property Management: 10%Rent: $1,800 (this is under market because I wanted to rent it quickly—most units in the area were sitting vacant for 100+ days.

I live in Utah, where the real estate market has exploded to say the least through COVID, so investing in my backyard isn't something I'm interested in right now.I'm looking for a market with houses available to be renovated under $50k!

We also have a decent amount of breweries, UNC Charlotte, two lakes and the Catawba river, the White Water Center, major league football, soccer and basketball teams and minor league hockey, baseball and women's soccer league so there's always something to do. 3.

The duplex has done well because it has a great backyard/garden area and each unit has a private deck and W/D.

I'm barely competent managing rentals in my backyard in NC. 

Here in FL that is typically the pool and backyard area.