If you put the $10000 down and get the deal can you make the numbers work with just the one side of the duplex ...I know the IT IS A BUSINESS crowd will speak different but how can you kick old sick grandma out on the street...and if she leaves will the sons go too ? 

Depending on the policies of the real estate company they may take a flat fee or a % of transaction (remember there is only one side your agent is representing so you should be able to secure representation for 3% or less of purchase price), negotiate that up front.

It's a win for both sides. 

But if I have someone with more experience there by my side, the picture will change a lot.

I also work part time as a personal fitness trainer and I do some small renovation contracting work on the side for family and friends.  

You will both be a ton of help, as I will have investments on both the East and West side of the state.

@Craig James Right now Walnut Hills, Evanston, and Northside are pretty hot, but a deal is a deal no matter where its at, id like to link up with and investor and establish a partnership.

I know BP has a lot of discussion about it, which is helpful because you can hear both sides of it and decide for yourself. 

On the other side some people just flat out want to sell their house today.

I'm currently a Property Manager in Richmond and have recently decided to get more involved in the investing side.