Church conversion into duplex
Not new to having rental properties, but not quite sure how to handle this one. Purchased a small church (1500 sq ft) in a small town and are not quite sure what to do. We know we are turning into living space, but would love to make it a 2BR duplex. Might just have to make single family home. It is all open with high ceilings. It does have basement (I would not feel comfortable putting a bedroom down there, but could definitely be used as play room, man cave, etc.) I know it is zoned single family (I have no idea how as it only has 2 half baths. Everything I see on here suggests not to turn single family into duplex as it is not cost effective, however, we could get most $1400 in rent as SFH, and $2000 at least as a duplex. We plan on calling about the zoning on Monday. I realize a lot of this depends on that. Help please! :)
#4 Multi-Family and Apartment Investing Contributor
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- Shelton, WA
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#4 Multi-Family and Apartment Investing Contributor
- Investor
- Shelton, WA
@Stephanie Cain welcome to BP! Don't get your hopes up, if it is zoned single family it will stay that way. Zoning and city council etc make those decisions, and there won't be any exceptions unless they decide, like many cities made changes allowing ADU.
I was just doing the same thing here in TX, then stumbled onto 5 unit deal. Where this property was commercial. There is no city code or regulations for me to fight. I still may attempt the purchase after closing this deal.
I would talk with the city manager before doing to much just mention affordable housing and community needs. Having a friend on the zoning side helps as well. If you are in a state like Cali, NY, or something just go with single family.
