Is that good enough to qualify for FHA (duplex or triplex) or do I need two *full* tax years?

An indecisive first time investor may linger on and on researching each deal, finding it not good enough and then hoping a "better" one is just around the corner. 

Close is not good enough.

Provided the deal is good enough,  you might want to get the owner to replaced deferred maintenance items as a condition to the sale.In either instance, duplex or fourplex, I would have a property manager manage the units that you don't live in.  

Combine that with your expected cost (then double it lol) and you'll be in good enough shape to learn as you go. 

It is definitely livable (hence the renter) and in good enough condition to *hopefully* last a few years without any major issues.

But the underwriter working with my lender decided that was not good enough and would not approve the deal.  

You have to decide for yourself if this is a good enough investment for you.

Another lender will go up to 70% of ARV, which may be nothing down if your deal is good enough, but had higher rates.Private money is private.

The $15k wasn't good enough?