Financing for Duplexes, Triplexes & Fourplexes
Multi-family properties with up to four units are treated differently than single-family homes by lenders — different down payment rules, different qualifying-income treatment, and different rate considerations. I'll help you structure financing whether you're buying your first duplex or adding a fourplex to your portfolio.
How Multi-Family Financing Works
- Properties with 2–4 units can often still qualify for residential (rather than commercial) financing
- A portion of rental income from the other units can typically be used to help you qualify
- Down payment requirements are generally higher than for a single-family owner-occupied home, and vary based on whether you plan to live in one unit or not
On a fourplex where you occupy one unit and rent out the other three, a lender might count roughly 50–80% of the rental income from those units toward your qualifying income (the exact percentage varies by lender) — increasing what you can qualify for compared to a single-family purchase.
Figures above are hypothetical examples for illustration only — not a quote or guarantee. Your actual qualifying income treatment and down payment requirement depend on your lender, program, and individual application.
Frequently Asked Questions
In many cases, yes — lenders will typically consider a portion of the rental income from non-owner-occupied units, though the exact treatment varies by lender and program.
Thinking About a Duplex, Triplex, or Fourplex?
Book a free call and I'll walk you through what you'd qualify for.