Hi,Since I am currently employed full time I am thinking a townhome might be easier to manage in the beginning.

Do you think it's better to do a FHA on a true duplex and take the increase with the mortgage insurance or to do a cheaper single family where I could create a basement apartment as a makeshift duplex paying the 20% to keep the mortgage low and easier to cover with the rent it would generate?

I've looked into a few companies (USREEB, Memphis Invest, etc.) but haven't really drilled down into specific markets.I'm attracted to the idea due to the lower cost, so greater ROI than I would get on my money than here in the Tampa Bay area which is very hot right now.But also working full time its an easier way to invest than doing all the work yourself while still getting a respectable return.

For an investment property a cash out refi is easier. 

I don't do rehabs myself, but I will set up an RTO on a house that needs work.It's FAR easier to wholesale a lease option to a contractor than it is to get a house super dirt cheap to wholesale to a flipper/rehabber.

For example, if you are discussing selling a home with a seller, and you tell them, you really should fix this and do that and clean this and you'll get top dollar.

For example, if you are discussing selling a home with a seller, and you tell them, you really should fix this and do that and clean this and you'll get top dollar.

This takes guts and is easier when the economy is horrible.

If your house is raised (crawlspace) its an easier job, but still labor intensive as the line would have to be dug up and replaced. 

Coming from a tech background I find it easier to understand tech fundamentals better than other industries.