Lauren's Blog

We Need To Talk About Duplexes

DUPLEXES. Admittedly, I’m a little obsessed with them. I mean, you basically get two houses for the price of one and a half. But what I don’t think enough people even consider is throwing down on a duplex with your bestie/sibling/parent/co-worker/dog-that-inherited-millions-from-its-rich-dead-owner. There are financing options available for purchasing a duplex with a 3.5% downpayment. That’s total. Half that again if you buy with someone else. I KNOW.

So, let’s take this rad duplex that was recently listed by one of my co-workers as an example. Close-in NE neighborhood. Listed at $519,900. Cute hardwoods, fireplaces, a yard, garages, basement…this beautiful boo kinda has it all. Now on your own, $520k could be way out of your budget (let’s be real, it’s out of most of our budgets). But shared with someone? You could both get your footing in the real estate market for around $260,000. For many Portlanders, that’s a pretty exciting opportunity to turn wishful thinking into actual homeownership.

AND THEN YOU GET TO EXPERIENCE LIVING RIGHT NEXT DOOR TO YOUR BESTIE (cue sitcom scenario).

Conclusion: Everyone buy duplexes with your best frands.

Have I blown your mind? Already picturing early morning coffee chats with your #1 over the back fence? Let’s get you cozied up with one of my trusted creative lenders and look at your options!

* listing pics courtesy of Laura Wood of Think Real Estate (thanks, Laura!) *