Buying A Duplex And Renting Half Apr 2026

Buying a duplex to live in/rent out half? : r/personalfinance

Buying a duplex and living in one unit while renting out the other—often called —is one of the most effective ways for first-time homebuyers to enter the real estate market . It’s a hybrid strategy that offers the security of a primary residence with the wealth-building power of an investment property. The Big Win: Financial Benefits

: You can typically deduct the mortgage interest and property taxes for your half, while the expenses for the tenant’s side (repairs, utilities, and depreciation) are often tax-deductible as business expenses. The Reality Check: Being a Landlord Next Door

The primary draw of a duplex is the ability to .

: Many owners find that rental income covers 50% to 80% of their monthly mortgage payment, making homeownership significantly more affordable.

: While your tenant helps pay down the principal, you are building 100% of the equity in the property.

The Ultimate Guide to House Hacking: Buying a Duplex and Renting Half