I am currently working with the widow of a deceased homeowner and the situation is a bit complicated.

It's complicated and has some serious difficulties but if you are thriving in the military and not a "bird" then you'll be able to apply the lessons learned there to the civilian world and landlording without a problem.

We all know that mistakes happen, but I believe hearing other peoples experiences would help me avoid future complications.

If there is debt, the equity you need is simply smaller in amount and percent.I think what you are doing is making your life complicated.

To ignore those or avoid those for the sake of 'ease' is a disservice to both parties.Moral of the story, by not want to make this complicated, you will make it more complicated.

It is possible to have the assignment clauses which contains similar language but generally not in full within the DOT/Mort.It is possible to not record the ALR but this can create complication down the road.

Too many complications otherwise.

Im guessing each state is a little different. also, though it is always complicated, what is the general attitude towards going this route and owning a duplex instead of a single family home as one's first house?

If MLS is one of your acquisition strategies then go further and make another 12 or maybe 20, if the market gets complicated then the effort will have to duplicate.

Taxes are a bit more complicated because of the duel side, but just keep track of everything and find a decent CPA at tax time.