Conventional financing on duplex with one habitable unit
This is a question for some of the BP'ers who are experts in conventional financing requirements. I am currently working on converting a DC rowhouse into a two unit duplex. One strategy I am exploring right now is to do the rough-in of the entire project (i.e. get the electrical, plumbing, framing, etc done). But then only finish one of the units. I would move into the finished unit after it is done.
My question is; down the road if I were to want to refinance, could I get conventional financing on a duplex where one of the units is not "habitable"? Any insights would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks,
Eric