By Martin Cross, January 7, 2019
By Martin Cross, January 7, 2019
A single family home isn’t always the answer. Sometimes the answer will lie in a multi-family home. How about buying something with more flexibility like an old Portland style duplex? I’m not talking about your standard, side by side, 1950’s duplex (not that there’s anything wrong with that) but this story is about a charming Old Portland, Craftsman or Bungalow style duplex!
A home like this not only gives you all that added charm and character but can provide more options than a single family home. They can be part owner-occupied and part rental either as a month to month or AirBnB. Multi-generational; put mom and dad downstairs and your family up. Multi-friend; some people are finding that buying a duplex with friends is one solution to the cost of housing. Or keep one half for nanny’s quarters while you need them and then rent it once the kids have grown. Lastly, many of these homes also come with basements for even more space and flexibility to use as storage, a play room or to convert to an ADU.
So whether you’re looking for options because your property search has stagnated or you started off looking for a multi family home, always remember, sometimes it pays to think outside the box.