Have you considered buying a multi-unit property?

Last year, Fannie Mae made some changes to its underwriting guidelines for 2-4 unit properties.  They lowered the minimum down payment to 5%.  Prior to the change, a borrower needed to put at least 15% down on a duplex and at least 25% on a triplex or fourplex.  Also, when purchasing one of these properties as a primary residence, the buyer can use the rental income from the 1-3 units that are rented out as part of the income used to calculate the DTI (Debt-To-Income) Ratio.  Generally, 75% of the rent coming in from the units that are rented out is counted toward overall income.  Many people are not aware of this and never consider a 2-4 unit when shopping for a home.