Buyers don't look for financing and its foreign so they don't jump on a forsale listing on zillow.I've had the best (only) luck with zillow rental adds,   starting with the pitch;  rent to own, live in a great home while you pay off owning it. 

Also, if you are a minority, WRA has the Partnership for Success program, which helps pay for your start up costs.

It is always better to have the tenant paying for the utilities as they are the ones using them. 

More than happy to partner up or pay for the deal itself.

I don’t know when an LLC starts to pay off if you don’t have any partners.

You can't directly do something to allow you to sell the flip, and buy the triplex without paying gains. 

Fannie Mae will allow you to transfer the deed to an LLC if you decide to try to go the conventional route, but the loan would still be in your names and you'll need to pay a title company a second time post-closing to do this  for you. 3) I can't speak for the area so no comment there4) If you're self managing, make sure you find vendors you can trust in the area since you won't be able to easily verify if an HVAC guy, plumber, etc. is trying to rip you off and tell you to buy something you don't actually need. 5) Make sure you have clear alignment of goals and a clear operating agreement that spells out what to do if those goals start to not align in the future since you'll be jointly obligated to these properties. 

I was studying the market and my rent will be just enough to cover the mortgage and HOA fee now I might to pay out of pocket for insurance but don't want to sell it yet because the area is growing and might have good appreciation in the years that follow.

I like the fact that one and a half units pays all bills.

We are paying cash to him every week or so when he sends bill.