Duplex Mortgage Rates for Jul 10, 2026
Compare lenders for duplex and 2-unit mortgage rates. Owner-occupied duplexes qualify for FHA (3.5% down) and VA ($0 for veterans). Live in one unit, rent the other — and let your tenant help pay the mortgage.
Compare lenders for my duplex
House Hacking a Duplex — How the Math Works
"House hacking" means buying a small multi-unit, occupying one unit, and renting the others to offset your mortgage. A duplex is the most common starting point. Here's why it works:
Example: $400,000 duplex with FHA
Illustrative example. Actual figures depend on rate, taxes, insurance, and local rents.
Owner-occupied rates and terms — you're not paying investment property premiums
Rental income from the other unit counts toward mortgage qualification (75% of market rent)
You build equity in both units while your tenant covers part of your mortgage
FHA 3.5% down and VA $0 down are both available with owner-occupancy
Works best where market rents are high relative to purchase prices
Duplex Loan Options
FHA — 3.5% Down
Most popularIf you live in one unit, FHA allows 3.5% down with a 580+ credit score. The most accessible duplex loan for buyers without a large down payment.
VA — $0 Down
Best for veteransEligible veterans and service members can use VA loans on duplexes (up to 4 units) with no down payment if they occupy one unit. No PMI.
Conventional — 5–15% Down
Owner-occupied duplexes typically require 5–15% down with a 620+ credit score. Investment (non-owner-occupied) requires 15–25%.
What Lenders Look at for Duplex Loans
Duplex underwriting differs from single-family in a few important ways. Understanding these ahead of time helps you shop lenders more effectively.
Rental income for qualification
For owner-occupied duplexes, most lenders count 75% of market rent (or lease rent if signed) toward qualifying income. They use the appraiser's "subject to" rental income estimate if no lease exists. This 75% factor accounts for vacancy and maintenance. If rental income helps you qualify — make sure your lender is using it correctly.
Down payment by occupancy type
Owner-occupied: FHA 3.5%, VA 0%, conventional typically 5–15%. Non-owner-occupied (investment): conventional typically 15–25%, often no FHA or VA. The occupancy type is verified — you must intend to live in one unit as your primary residence to get owner-occupied rates and down payment requirements.
Reserve requirements
Lenders typically require 2–6 months of PITI (principal, interest, taxes, insurance) in reserves for duplex loans. Investment properties often require more. Reserves show you can cover the mortgage if the rental unit is vacant.
Rental income history vs. projected
If you currently own the property and have a rental history, lenders use Schedule E from your tax returns. For a purchase without lease in place, they use 75% of the appraiser's market rent estimate. Signed leases are the strongest form of rental income documentation — worth having before closing if possible.
Duplex advantages
- ✓Rental income offsets your mortgage with tenant rent
- ✓Live for less owner-occupied rates, rental income reduces your net housing cost
- ✓Build equity in two units with one loan and one closing
- ✓FHA and VA eligible with owner-occupancy — low or no down payment
Things to consider
- •Higher down payment for non-owner-occupied: typically 15–25%
- •Landlord responsibilities maintenance, tenant management, vacancy periods
- •Stricter underwriting lenders may require rental income documentation
- •Rate premium possible versus single-family primary residence
Compare Lenders for Your Duplex
Takes about 2 minutes · No credit check · No obligation
Duplex mortgage rates and requirements vary by lender. Get matched with lenders who do 2-unit loans and compare rates for your situation.
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How it works
- 1Enter your info — takes about 2 minutes
- 2Get matched with lenders experienced in duplex loans
- 3Compare rates and get your personalized quote