The rates are also the lowest compared to the large bank chains.

The debt service value above assumes the entire purchase price of $700K was financed - I simply offer this to compare with the example numbers already posted)Cash flow - +$130/ monthWhat if your seller carried 20% (interest only at 6%) and you commercially financed 80%?

My experience so far has been when it comes to duplexes there isn't much to compare too.

Just food for thought.In addition to HML, there is private investors such as IRA holders (self-directed), people with $ in CDs earning tiny returns (compared to RE), family, friends, associates, etc.

You might be able to get a first time homeowners loan (if you intend to live in it yourself) if you've already got the good job and if someone will co-sign for you.The best place to ask, if you don't want to do a traditional loan, is a small local bank.Also, if your new job has a credit union associated with it, that is a very good place to inquire about a mortgage.As for requirements, the bank is going to want to see that you have enough income to make your paymnets.

At GMAC we have a written gaurantee of customer service with a 97% satisfaction rating, compared to 67% in the industry.

Just imagine what that home is worth today compared to '81!

When you think about that and compare it to what other real estate guru's are charging it looks like a bargain.

There are about 16 type written pages of civil code that pretty much makes anything short of a traditional transaction too risky.James, Could you expand on this a bit.

Probably at much better returns than you can get from the stock market or other traditional investments.After 5 years in this business I am just now starting to partner with other investors to buy commercial properties.