With that said, I would still proceed with caution when underwriting, analyzing and projecting returns, but, don't simply buy into everyones thought that the market is doomed, just because that's what everyone is saying.Credit is definitely tightening a bit, meaning less loan proceeds than a few years ago, but banks are still lending with historically favorable terms.

Should his lack of experience be an immediate red flag and should I look elsewhere since there are other options available?

The problem with this is that (1) the deal they think is ‘great’ is probably mediocre at best; their lack of experience and expertise causes them to either mis analyze or exclude information , (2) the ‘off market’ deal they found is not off market, it’s just not listed with a broker, and (3) with no money or experience they don’t bring anything to the table worth an equity position.At best they might be able to obtain a broker fee.

If they do not pay you will be forced to evict assuming your state regulations allow evictions based on utilities owed.Your best option is to simply raise the rent to cover the anticipated cost, plus some, and hope for the best.

This tenant needs to go now and you should not even be considering a voluntary monthly loss to extend the inevitable.This is not harsh it is simply business. 

Simply put, I need help finding deals.

If he simply found a buyer to pay more, I would stick it to him.

Like Chris said, a duplex simply can not be compared to a sfh.

Lack of capital is my barrier.But learning on BP has given me the hope that I can at least upgrade to a nicer rental and study habits of successful investors here.

I love them and buy as many as I want, whenever I want because in most cases, I am simply taking over payments on existing financing.Once I own the property, I can do with it as I please.