Metuchen, NJ · Member since 2017 · 31 posts · 12 votes
Hi! I am new to BP and real estate investing as a whole. For my first investment, my plan is to purchase a multi family that I can house hack. One issue that I am running into at the moment is that the market where I live (Jersey City, NJ) is really hot and over my budget. There are a few single families that I may be able to purchase. Someone brought to my attention the possibility of converting a single family to a multi family. Does anyone have experience doing this (preferably in Jersey city or neighboring areas)? If so, how was your experience?
I haven't gone through with a conversion, but reach out to the zoning office if you have something in mind. They'll help provide a better sense of whether or not it's feasible. For what it's worth, here are a few things to keep in mind:
Generally speaking, in Jersey City, lot size will be a big factor. A 25' x 100' lot here is considered "standard", and that will likely make the process easier than trying to do the same with an undersized lot.
Standard zoning permits 1- or 2-family dwellings, so you'll have a much easier time seeking approval to convert a 1-family to a 2-family than to go from a 2- to a 3-family. If you were to attempt to convert to a 3-family or larger, you may be subject to an array of additional requirements -- like sprinkler systems ($$$$$).
In addition, if you're attempting to convert a basement to a 2nd apartment, for example, that apartment would need to fit certain requirements like providing to means of egress among others.
I haven't gone through with a conversion, but reach out to the zoning office if you have something in mind. They'll help provide a better sense of whether or not it's feasible. For what it's worth, here are a few things to keep in mind:
Generally speaking, in Jersey City, lot size will be a big factor. A 25' x 100' lot here is considered "standard", and that will likely make the process easier than trying to do the same with an undersized lot.
Standard zoning permits 1- or 2-family dwellings, so you'll have a much easier time seeking approval to convert a 1-family to a 2-family than to go from a 2- to a 3-family. If you were to attempt to convert to a 3-family or larger, you may be subject to an array of additional requirements -- like sprinkler systems ($$$$$).
In addition, if you're attempting to convert a basement to a 2nd apartment, for example, that apartment would need to fit certain requirements like providing to means of egress among others.
Thank you for the response. I did take a look at the zoning info provided in JC public sites. So I have an idea of the zoning setup for the area I am interested in purchasing a property in. My plan would be to convert a single family to a two family. I would like to live in one of the units while renting the other. It will be a combo, BRRRR and house hacking strategy. Not sure if you have worked with others that did something similar in the area.
@Charles H. I'm currently considering doing the same thing--converting a single family to a two-family in JC. Curious if you followed through with the above. Would love to hear about your experiences if that was the case.
Has anyone found out how to successfully convert from 1 to 2 family? I'm told by my realtor it can be done, but would love first-hand accounts of the process.
Has anyone found out how to successfully convert from 1 to 2 family? I'm told by my realtor it can be done, but would love first-hand accounts of the process.
I am looking to start the process myself. First, you would call city zoning and speak to someone. They will ask for your address. You provide it, they pull up your info and will tell you if it can be done or not. My property is in the 2060 redevelopment zone (JOURNAL SQURE) so I was hoping for a 1 family to be converted into a 2 or 3 or 4 family but was only given the OK for a 2 family which sucks but I guess I'll have to live with it. Next, once you get the OK from zoning, you will need to hire an architect. They will have to file all the paperwork and whatever else to zoning. Zoning will review it and then approve it - I was told this process takes 2 months (8 weeks). Once this is done, now it's your turn to hire professional licensed people to start and finish all the work that is required. Keep in mind, you'll need a 2nd means of egress. In my case, I'll need to install a fire escape ladder in the back of the house as well as updated electrical. I'm also looking to add a 2nd electric / gas meter, separate gas and water boilers for each unit. Basically, I just want to pay for cold water and let the tenants pay for gas, electric, hot water. I'm assuming the following - I guess once the contractors are done working on the property, the architect will contact zoning who will inspect the property and approve it. Then you'll get the CofO and you're in business.
@patrick Q - The building must be vacant because breaking walls, working with electricity, gas, and anything else is dangerous to have anyone living in the house. My property has been vacant since May 2020. It sucks that I'm paying the mortgage out of my pocket but I guess. This is all part of the process.