Is buying a two-family home a good first purchase?

A two-family home can make a strong first purchase for a buyer comfortable with landlord responsibilities, since rental income from the second unit can offset part of the mortgage, provided the property is legally permitted for two units rather than converted informally. Financing and insurance differ from a single-family purchase and are worth understanding before offering. Brian Beatty can confirm a property's actual permit status before a first-time buyer commits.