Remove Steam Heat/Replace with HVAC in each unit?

[Gerald Joyce]

I would like to know your thoughts on the upside/downside/estimated cost of converting a brick two flat (one bath, three bedrooms each) in Ravenswood Gardens (60625) from steam heat to forced air with AC. The Units have a small pantry/storage room that could house the furnace. A/C would most likely go up on the roof. The Units are about 1200sq ft. each.

The building is plaster and lath construction, so I would definitely be looking at having to repair some if it when done where we had to run ductwork from the main feed into the individual rooms. I was thinking of exposed, circular ductwork attached to the ceilings to save money on soffits and give the work more of a loft feel. I am guessing I would have to add some circuits in the electrical panels. The units will have 9 ft. ceilings.

Or.....would it be cheaper to put the furnaces in the basement and run ductwork up through the walls (I can't see how that wouldn't be more difficult/expensive)?

I replaced separate basement located furnace/HVAC/water heaters units with in unit furnace/HVAC/water heaters in a two flat about ten years ago, but have no idea what it would cost in 2023.

Has anyone done this recently? If so, what was your experience? I am particularly interested in the price (I am really, really interested in the price).

Thanks.