Half-duplex rehab (cosmetic issue)?

Question

I have my eye on a 1/2 duplex for a rehab--however (as is often the case), the exterior looks like crap. Since the other half has a different owner, I'm wondering if it can work to simply add new siding and landscaping to the whole structure as part of the rehab budget--and offer to take care of the entire cost? I figure it would be a win-win, as the other owner gets his/her property value bumped up for free, while I'm also still improving the value of the rehab.

Has anyone ever done a 1/2 duplex rehab w/ this option? If you have rehabbed 1/2 duplexes before, how have you handled the common cosmetic issue of mismatched-looking sides?

Vonetta Booker · Answer

Thanks, @Brian Ploszay.  Yes, my intent was to offer to cover the costs of the cosmetics/exterior--especially in that case, I don't see why the other owner wouldn't go w/ that, since they're getting updated curb appeal for free, lol--but I always like to double check before I get deep into the deal.

And true, different-looking sides are very common w/ 1/2 duplexes--but I've seen some truly hideous ones! ;-)

Brian Ploszay · Answer

I would talk to the owner.  You might have to offer to pay to do some of those cosmetic issues.

I united the cosmetics by painting some of the trim work the same color.  I wouldn't over-worry about the two sides looking too different.  This is common with these types of properties.