Skip to content
Two investors reviewing resources on a laptop

Get industry-leading resources — for free

Unlock resources for every investing strategy and stage with a free account.

By continuing, you agree to BiggerPockets LLC's Terms of Use and Privacy Policy

Followed Discussions Followed Categories Followed People Followed Locations
General Landlording & Rental Properties
All Forum Categories
Followed Discussions
Followed Categories
Followed People
Followed Locations
Market News & Data
General Info
Real Estate Strategies
Landlording & Rental Properties
Real Estate Professionals
Financial, Tax, & Legal
Real Estate Classifieds
Reviews & Feedback

User Stats

13
Posts
7
Votes
Brandon Rush
  • Real Estate Agent
7
Votes |
13
Posts

Building a 3-family in Boston

Brandon Rush
  • Real Estate Agent
Posted

Hey team,

I've got a 2,400sq/ft buildable lot in Dorchester that I'm looking to build on. I bought this lot with my first property, but the plots have separate addresses and deeds.

My GC mentioned to me that building a 3-family is likely going to be cheaper than buying and renovating one. That, of course, might not be true right with material costs through the roof -but generally!

The major question I have is: Where do I start? 

Do I go to the city first? Go to an architect or an engineers? Am I looking for specific construction financing?

I've thought a lot about buying houses, but never about building one. Any advice for a total newbie would be greatly appreciated!


Most Popular Reply

User Stats

869
Posts
823
Votes
Dave Spooner
  • Rental Property Investor
  • Cincinnati, OH
823
Votes |
869
Posts
Dave Spooner
  • Rental Property Investor
  • Cincinnati, OH
Replied

@Brandon Rush A generally inexpensive way to go is to purchase some preset plans and to hire an architect to modify them. Your choice of an architect is critical. This is not just a simple contractor hired to do a job and run, they should be an advocate for you during the construction process. They can also help you evaluate a good contractor and will surely be able to help you navigate the local municipal process. I would strongly suggest starting there!

  • Dave Spooner
  • [email protected]
  • Loading replies...