Little Rock, AR Rental Property, Cannot DIY trades?

Question

Hello,

First post here!

My aunt and I are looking to buy a tri-plex that is just a shell. New roof, new windows, just studs inside. I called the city permit department just to check what was required for finishing the place out and the lady said that I must have a general contractor for the electrical/plumbing/hvac.

Now I understand the need for this, not questioning it or complaining. Obviously though, it's a huge hit to our numbers. Is there any way around this? Hiring a general contractor to oversee, but I actually do the labor? Or maybe I get my general contractor's license? The requirements in Arkansas seems like something I cannot provide though. Unlike other states where the requirements to get your license are a little more lax.

Just temporarily have the wind taken out of my sails after a good streak of news. Trying to problem solve here a little and see what my options are.

Thanks in advance!

I've been lurking here for some time. It's nice to finally be jumping in the mix!

NaDean Bowles · Answer

@Ruben

@Ruben Goodbear Anders, you need a licensed plumber, a licensed electrician, and possibly a licensed HVAC person to pull the permits for those systems and sign off that they were done correctly by them.  That's it.  You can do the rest however you wish.

Rob Marzolf · Answer

@Ruben Goodbear Anders between you me and the people who read this I would do all the work and then hire contractors to come in and finish it off. Just say you found out the last guy wasn’t licensed or something. I feel like this isn’t good advice but I think it gets around your cost situation.

Where are you in Arkansas?