How to convert single family to duplex in pud

Question

If a home is pud 2 or less units per acre and its 1.39 acres  100 wide by 600 deep and 2684 sq ft home and also a 28 x 40 slab in back with utilities available. What would be the best maximum thing to do with this property, not in a subdivision on a main drag 1 mi from interstate? Any input is greatly appreciated.

Ryan Gillette · Answer

Stop into your local zoning office and have a 15 minute chat with them. Step 1 is seeing if it's possible. Step 2 is getting a contractor or two out there to estimate costs. Then I would do a scenario analysis between A. Do nothing, spend $0. B. Investing in the construction conversion costs to split out the utilities, install a kitchen, and any other reno costs. Weigh that against the additional rental income. I own a duplex that was converted in a cul-de-sac of single-families (back in the 60's) and it's a breeze to rent because people love renting in a quiet residential neighborhood without having to pay SFR rent prices.

Carolyn Morales · Answer

Thank You for you replies, Ryan Gillette and Mike Wood.

I have thought of building an apt on the 28x40 slab from scratch and later  maybe it can be converted it to commercial office space. There is suppose to be a hospital built here in this zip code soon 32221 and there is already commercial property  a couple lots down and across the street.

Mike Wood · Answer

@Carolyn Morales

Same as what @Ryan Gillettesaid, you first need to check if its even legally zoned for 2 family housing.

There are lots of things to consider.  Separating a SFH would not be super easy, depending on the layout. Any division between the two units needs to be fire rated, this will likely cause you to remove drywall on the walls separating the units.  HVAC will have to be split. Electrical will have to be split (which is more involved than just adding separate pool.  Egress issues will have to be considered, as will separate entrances.

The water will likely have to be common, as its likely not worth separating, but something to consider would be adding another water heater (while not required, i doubt many tenants would want to have their neighbors use up all of the hot water for the house.

Then you have to consider adding the kitchen and many bathrooms.  It is likely a big project. Unless you would get alot more in rent, it would not be something I would consider.  I have personally considered doing this in one area of my city, simply because the rents support it.

Carolyn Morales · Answer

My son is electrician working for his dads commercial electric company. Setting a separate pole should not be a big problem. or huge cost.

Thank You for your reply!