Tips for house hacking with a duplex?
Category: House Hacking
3 replies
Original post
I've heard great things about house hacking with a duplex since you can live in one half and put the tenant's rent toward your mortgage. Is it worthwhile to do this? Are there any downsides to look out for? How are people affording duplexes in a nice area to begin with?Reply by Marc St.James
I think it can definitely be worth it especially if you're comfortable living that close to your tenant. The biggest thing I'd look at is the numbers without assuming the other unit will always be occupied.
I'd also pay close attention to the layout and how much privacy you actually have between the two units. Having a good tenant is great, but you're still living next door to them, so that can make a big difference.
Reply by Daniel M.
@[cmsnjz971004ari0mshh10yfp](Alexa Abbott) I agree with Marc. I’d also look closely at the financing and make sure the property still makes sense if you have a vacancy or a bigger repair come up.
One thing I’d add is to look at the utilities too. If they’re shared figuring out how those are split before you buy can save you some headaches later. Definitely seems like a good way to get started though if the numbers work.