Buying a duplex in Houston: what to check

Evaluate each unit and the whole building before focusing on the combined rent.

Read the leases, not just the listing

Ask for current leases, deposits, payment history and a rent roll where available. Verify who pays water, electricity, lawn care and other shared expenses. Compare actual collected income with advertised projected rent.

Inspect both units and shared systems

Review roofs, foundations, HVAC, plumbing, electrical systems and drainage with qualified inspectors. Confirm unit configuration, separate meters, parking, access and any occupancy or rental restrictions with the appropriate authorities.

Model vacancy at the unit level

If one of two equal-rent units is vacant, gross scheduled rent falls by half during that period. Budget turnover costs and reserves for multiple appliances and systems. Two units do not automatically create better returns than a single-family property.

Match financing to occupancy

Tell your lender whether you intend to live in a unit or rent the entire property. Owner-occupied and investment financing have different conditions. Confirm down payment, reserves, property eligibility and how rental income is considered directly with your lender.