Lately, I’ve had a handful of people in my life—friends, former clients, even casual acquaintances—tell me that owning a small multi-unit property is a goal of theirs. Not a massive apartment complex, not some distant passive income dream, but something tangible. A duplex, triplex, maybe a six-unit building. Something that can generate income now while laying the groundwork for future goals like starting a business, buying a home, or creating generational wealth.

It’s fascinating. And honestly? It’s smart. It also reflects the reality of the market we’re in. Affordability is a real issue. And the younger generation isn’t just talking about it—they’re getting creative.

They’re looking at how to live in one unit and rent the others. Or how to build equity while collecting rent. Or how to leverage a property like this into a short-term rental, a portfolio of investments, or even a boutique bed-and-breakfast down the road.

And while I absolutely applaud the drive and vision, I also feel compelled to have the real talk about what it means to be a landlord. Especially for small multi-units like the two I currently have listed.

Property #1: 3525 S Bannock St, Englewood

This 6-unit building isn’t fancy—but that’s part of its appeal. It’s a boxy 1950s build with off-street parking, a fenced yard (great for dog-owning tenants), and a shared laundry room. All six units are 1 bed/1 bath, and the current owner keeps leases at 30+ days—ideal given its close proximity to Swedish and Craig Hospitals.

Want to go the Airbnb route? The opportunity is there, pending permits. Want something low-drama and stable? Keep it as-is and enjoy consistent rental income. It’s not flashy—but it’s dependable, and that’s exactly what many buyers are looking for.

Property #2: 1437 Columbine St, Congress Park

Now this one is special. Built in 1905 and dripping with charm, this property has been converted into three units but still has its original hardwood floors, woodwork, radiators, stained glass, and much of the original layout.

It’s a perfect example of historic Denver architecture, and it’s one of the reasons I got into real estate in the first place. Live in one unit, rent out the others. Or convert it back to a single-family home and preserve a piece of history. Either way, this one is a true gem.

So… What’s It Really Like to Be a Landlord?

The good news:
✔️ You build equity while someone else helps pay the mortgage
✔️ You can use the property as a launchpad for future investments
✔️ You may get tax benefits like depreciation or mortgage interest deductions
✔️ You control the asset, unlike stocks or crypto

The reality check:
🔧 You’re responsible when the sewer backs up or the boiler goes out
🧑‍🔧 You have to coordinate repairs, maintenance, and tenant turnover
📣 Vacancy = lost income, so marketing is essential
🕵️ You need to screen tenants (credit, criminal, references)
💬 You'll likely be mediating neighbor disputes at some point

It’s not a passive investment, especially not at this scale. But it is a manageable, accessible entry point into building wealth through real estate.

If this kind of opportunity has ever crossed your mind—even briefly—let’s talk. These types of properties don’t come up every day, and I’d be happy to show you what to look for, how to evaluate the numbers, and whether this could be a smart fit for your goals.

Whether you’re ready to start now or just want to start the conversation, I’m here for it.

Curious about one of the listings above?
📍 3525 S Bannock St Listing
📍 1437 Columbine St Listing

Or just shoot me a message and I’ll send you the full scoop—numbers, zoning, rental comps, and more.