I earn more than average (around here) and did not yet buy my own house because I felt it was too expensive and just not worth it, especially as I do not have my own family yet.As such, at the price of one house here, I can buy even two villas, or a few smaller studios over there.

Let's say you could buy a turnkey property for a market value $67k that cash flows at $400 a month after all expenses.

A party-wall agreement is put in place that covers the cooperation needed by the two owners.Since land is so expensive, I've seen folks buy a $400,000 SFH on a lot zoned for duplex, they scape the home and put a new duplex in place.

Seattle is expensive but I plan on relocating anyway when I pull the trigger, so I'd have less expenses.

Make sure you have enough of a reserve to account for unexpected expenses such as vacancy and major repairs.

Here's the numbers:Single family house in NE San Antonio. 1,456 square feet, 3 bed 2.5 bathPurchase price: $105,000Rehab; $20,000Hard money loan: $112,500Cash out of pocket (From HUD stmt):$12,500 (down payment)$2,250 (points)$385 (lender fees)$892.50 (title fees)$1,320 (insurance)-$2,001.34 (credit for unpaid taxes)Total: $15,346.16Actual rehab cost: $19,678.12Hold time until rehab and refinance complete: 98 daysInterest expense: $3,020.55Refinance loan terms: 30 year adjustable rate mortgage at 5.75% interest fixed for 5 years at 85% LTV and 1 point.Appraised value: $164,500Cash-out refi amount: $139,825Cash back in my pocket after lender fees, title fees, down payment, interest expense, insurance, etc are all accounted for: $5,389.50Now the place is rented for $1,200 a month and I figure I'll pocket about $200-$300 a month after expenses and mortgage payments and in the end, no money tied up in the deal!

You will pay taxes on the Net Revenue or profit after your expenses, which will be your Income.

Any damage to the Premises (including, without limitation, concrete walkways and stairs) caused by Tenant's use of ice melt, salt or similar product shall be the sole responsibility of Tenant, and Tenant shall be responsible for the cost and expense any repairs required as a result thereof."

If you have an understanding of real estate and think you can get better results growing your retirement savings in that asset class, then a self-directed IRA or Solo 401(k) is a means to do that.All investments are made in the name of the plan, all expenses come from the plan, and all return accrues to the plan.There are several different plan types and service models available.  

Duplexes get extremely expensive and you will be fighting many buyers to get one.