Converting a Single Family to a Multi Family Home - Advice?

Question

Does anyone have any experience converting a Single Family home to a Multi Family, like converting a basement or garage that has a separate entrance and running utilities to the new unit for a bathroom and kitchen? Any advice or cost estimates if you've done something similar would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

Matthew Irish-Jones · Answer

Account Closed yes you need to start with the local municipalities. That is normally the building dept in your local jurisdiction. You need to know what the local laws are for adding living space or re-zoning a home.

Account Closed · Answer

Thanks @Johann Jells and @Matthew Irish-Jones! I'll be look now to see what I can find out.

Johann Jells · Answer

Most towns are very against this, it smacks of "bringing in the wrong people", ie, those who can't afford to buy or rent a house, which traditionally meant minorities. Get an attorney that specializes in zoning. Best way I know is to get the schedule of your zoning board and see which attorneys are always there. Do not trust a RE closing lawyer who thinks he can handle it. Rare is the lawyer who admits he has no idea how to handle something.

Converting a Single Family to a Multi Family Home - Advice?

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