HomeFAQCan I buy a duplex with a mortgage?
Property Types

Can I buy a duplex with a mortgage?

Answered by Onias Derilus, Mortgage Capital · NMLS# 1859012 · Florida licensed mortgage broker

Yes. A duplex (two units) can be bought with FHA at 3.5% down, VA at $0 down, or conventional, as long as you live in one unit. The rent from the other unit can help you qualify.

It's a smart house-hacking move in Florida. For a duplex you won't occupy, an investment or DSCR loan fits. We'll structure it to your living and income goals.

Yes, and it is smart

Yes. You can buy a duplex with a mortgage, and if you live in one unit, you can use owner-occupied loans like FHA at 3.5% down or VA at zero down. Renting the other unit helps cover your payment.

This strategy, called house hacking, is one of the best ways to start investing.

Using rental income

Lenders often let you count projected rent from the other unit to help you qualify, boosting your buying power.

Florida has strong rental demand. Reach out and we will run a duplex purchase for you.

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Official resources

Verify the details for your own situation against these government and agency sources: CFPB Owning a Home guide and HUD homebuyer resources.

Related Property Types Questions

Can I buy a triplex or fourplex with a mortgage?Yes. A triplex or fourplex mortgage is standard: three- and four-unit properties qualify for FHA (3.5% down), VA ($0 down), and conventional financing when you occupy one unit.Can I finance a vacation home?Yes. Vacation homes are financed as second homes, typically with 10% down, as long as you occupy them part of the year and they're a reasonable distance from your primary residence.Can I finance a fixer-upper?Yes. Renovation loans like the FHA 203(k) and Fannie Mae HomeStyle let you finance the purchase plus the cost of repairs in one mortgage, based on the home's after-renovation value.
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