We'd be glad to chat through your options. 

Since I feel I see two options I can think of.- Buy duplex with FHA 3.5% and look for another property like fourplex- Buy duplex with conventional loan 20% down and wait until gain another downpayment 

Have at least 1-2 backup options is essential in planning for a successful 1031 exchange

Yes, feel free and reach out to me, and let's connect and go over some options and region-specific analytics to break down the market for you. 

How did you finance this deal?

I'm looking for USDA loan options as well.

Full metal stairs are always an option but that would completely blow the budget which already has a razor thin margin. 

How did you finance this deal?

They're so many options and even when you get it narrowed down... there even more options to choose from to make it exactly what you want.   

Here are some additional activities that count, toward real estate professional and material participation hours.Research market for real estate transaction opportunities; current office market rates; terms of financingMaking offer contracts for properties that you end up buyingNegotiation for acquisition of rental properties that you end up purchasing; including directing due diligence and managing financial projections/business plansObtaining financing for properties that you purchaseProperty inspectionsAdvertisingMeeting with Prospective Tenants/showing properties to prospective tenantsNegotiate, obtain, & review proposals and contracts with vendors (insurance, utilities, etc) for property servicesReview and Negotiate The Terms of Sale AgreementsStaging and Decorating3rd party contractor, vendor, or service provider supervision