Here are some considerations for investing in a duplex in the Dallas area and potential alternatives:Investing in a Duplex:If you rent out one property, you can possibly create positive cash flow by partially offsetting your living expenditures.If you're an investor with limited funds, duplexes could be a more accessible alternative because they may have lower entry expenses than bigger multifamily properties.Perform in-depth market research in the Dallas region to pinpoint communities that have high demand for rentals and good prospect for real estate growth.Take a look at owner-occupant-friendly financing choices including FHA loans, which frequently have less down payments.Make sure you have a well-defined escape plan.

Possibly, if you are in a very expensive market, you might be able to add value to a property with a window AC, but in most markets, window units are going to cap your rent growth potential.

This is why it is first and foremost critical to understand the costs of owning a note.Things like legal fees, servicing, and insurance are all getting more expensive.

I would also note that you should assess your savings, income stability, and ability to manage expenses as that plays a factor.

Once the home is under the LLC Ownership, am I able to deduct expenses/mortgage interest payments from my own personal W2? 

If it is in an area with a bunch of expensive permits and replacement costs, no way I'd pass on inspection.Clint

Is the remaining 2/5 of the total paid toward discount points a deductible expense at that point, or will that portion never be deductible?

In my case it involves a lot of expensive equipment, knowledge of flambient photography, a mastering of Photoshop, and a lot of patience for processing multiple exposures plus flash for a single finished photo.

Anyone from a housewife with no work experience to a former Navy enlisted sailor can become a realtor in 8 weeks and THEN help a Buyer or Seller make decisions on the most expensive asset most people will ever own. ( Think about that for an hour or two) The real purpose of Real Estate School is to familiarize a prospective Agent with the Laws that the BROKER must follow and keep the BROKER out of trouble. . 

Your Passive Allowed/Activity Losses (PAL) will be reconciled on f8582 and brought onto SchE if allowed.Again for rentals, its basically your Rents - expenses - depreciation.Does that help?