At 23, living with your parents and investing in S&P 500 ETFs, you’re already on a solid financial path that many can only dream of. You might be wondering if it’s time to leave the nest and invest in a duplex, where you could live in one unit and rent out the other. It sounds like a savvy move, but let’s break it down to see if it’s really the right choice for you.

First off, let’s chat about that S&P 500 investment. You’re riding the wave of the stock market, and historically, the S&P 500 has delivered some pretty impressive returns over the long haul. Think of it like that classic movie where the underdog rises to the top against all odds. By keeping your money in the market, you’re allowing it to grow, and compound interest is like the superhero of investing; the longer you wait, the mightier it becomes.

Now, picture this: You’re looking at a duplex. Owning property can be a great way to build wealth, especially if you’re planning to rent out one unit. It’s like being the landlord version of a Marvel character—taking charge, collecting rent, and watching that cash flow in. However, being a property owner isn’t all fun and games. You’ll need to consider things like property taxes, maintenance costs, and the occasional broken toilet at 2 AM. Plus, you’d be tying up a significant chunk of your cash that could otherwise be working for you in the stock market.

On the flip side, renting while you’re investing can keep your financial flexibility intact. It’s like being in a sitcom where you can live carefree for a while without the responsibility of a mortgage hanging over your head. You can keep funneling your money into those ETFs, allowing your investment to grow and potentially outpace the returns you’d see from real estate, especially in a market that’s still recovering from fluctuations.

But let’s not forget the potential perks of owning a duplex. If you live in one unit and rent out the other, your tenant could help cover your mortgage, making your living situation much more affordable. It’s a bit like sharing a pizza—everyone gets a slice, and you’re still feeding your appetite for homeownership. However, you’ll want to ensure that the rental market in your area is strong enough to support this plan. If you’re in a location where demand is low, that tenant might be harder to find than a needle in a haystack.

So, what’s the best move? It really depends on your financial goals and lifestyle preferences. If you’re comfortable with the risks of the stock market and enjoy watching your investments grow, sticking with your ETFs might be the way to go for now. On the other hand, if you’re itching to plant some roots and want to take the plunge into property ownership, just make sure you’ve got a solid financial cushion to handle the unexpected expenses that come with owning a home.

Ultimately, whether you choose to rent or buy, think about what aligns best with your long-term financial goals. You’re in a great position to either keep building your investment portfolio or dive into real estate. Just remember, whatever path you choose, you’re still the one in control of your financial destiny, like the director of your own blockbuster movie.