If it's a larger organization, feel free to inquire about their different staff qualifications.2.

I know it limits which contractors you can use, but I'm not sure about the qualification process.

I had 15 year loan on my triplex for a while,   but the most recent refi I did (which still lowered the rate substantially) I went back to a 30,   in part so that I increased my loan qualification ability for future purchases.   

You have more control perhaps on tenant qualifications, you can shop repair providers....you may market hustle vacant units better than PM, so have less vacancy....so there are advantages and disadvantages to both. 

Keep in mind, investment properties are being rated for the loan qualification, not the person. ...

Some HUD homes require a certain criteria/qualifications to purchase...

I write it up as a line of credit, no appraisal or qualification needed, good as cash but needs a DoT and promissory note, as well as a lender policy on the HUD.

That Buyer will see value in you because you have done all the qualification and heavy lifting already.

It being a duplex has no bearing on it, but to count rents toward qualification for financing you'll most likely need landlord experience.

If you have never landlorded before the bank will not consider the income for your qualification on a new mortgage, so if you can still qualify without that then maybe that is ok.It's hard to say without numbers.