You need to calculate the time to break even on this, and consider if you will live in this home in 1 or 2 years from now.

I have a decent calculator i can provide.

@Ellen MarshallTo calculate a net monthly cost of $800 for a duplex house hack, input rent and property expenses.

Here's a bit more in detail about how rates are calculated for DSCR loans:1.

Here's a bit more in detail about how rates are calculated for DSCR loans:1.

As for your other questions:It is currently on the market and has been so for several monthsI don't have anyone representing me yet...trying to learn as much as I can before taking that next step with a realtorI don't know why the owner is sellingI don't know the standing of the tenantsRent appears to be at marketAssuming 10% vacancy rate, my calculations show that it would indeed cashflow.  

Understand the fees involved and calculate the total cost for an entire year of management so you can compare the different managers.

When your tax professional calculates your UDFI tax, you can obtain information from the asset sponsor for potential write-offs. 

Your question is should you pay cash or get a mortgage.The investment calculators will say you will have a higher return on investment using as little of your own money as possible.Depending on your goals, like if you want to buy more rentals, this may be a wise strategy to put as little down as possible.However, if you are strictly looking to maximize your cashflow, having a paid off house is great.Honestly, I have a bit of both but like having the house paid off.

Property owners get an annual update on their SEV & Taxable Values with their city property tax bill, typically sent in December.So now, the city assessor tracks the SEV, but homeowners are taxed based upon the capped Taxable Value.