All Forum Posts by: Jared W Smith

Yes, having some information on the project scope would help. 

Jared W. Smith, RA

Principal Architect - Architect Owl

Sorry I didn't write back sooner. Well.. welcome! I am an Architect out of NY. I own a firm where we focus on residential and small commercial projects. I often assist REI and property owners solve spacial problems, re-configure interiors or conversions/additions.

Anyway.. in past I have found that I can not afford nor sacrifice the time in obtaining a MBA right now. I have self taught myself on many things related to business and real estate investing.. also getting hands on and jumping in has taught me tremendously.  

I am not in long distance investing.. yet. However it intrigues me but haven’t gotten there yet. 

Using your skills and expertise as an architect in real estate means.. as I am sure you are familiar.. you must show your value to the process. Educating others is best step forward. It’s even easier when an architect is required by the municipality. Personally I have several projects on hand that where I am partnering with others that being the skills I lack. 

Jared W. Smith, RA

Principal Architect - Architect Owl

Please take a look at my previous post from about a year ago. It remains valid for this project type in a heavy industrial area. 

I see you’re in NY. Send me a message if you need assistance with your project specifically. 

Jared W. Smith, RA 

Principal Architect - Architect Owl 

Welcome from a fellow architect! @Tucker Marshall I will post my experience in REI as an architect later this evening.

Jared W. Smith, RA

Principal Architect - Architect Owl

Though I agree that learning these basics @Dan Weber is good, just because the town/city chart states it is possible, a review of feasibility still needs to be done. If novice, this may not be easily determined. As @John Vietmeyer mentioned, firewall and each unit separation will be one item to look into. Also there's a cost where, even in a do-able property, doing the conversion is counterproductive to your end result. Things to be aware of. 

I would advice in this scenario, to do as Daniel says to narrow prospective properties to those worth further pursuing (2-3). At that point, either you put in the due diligence to see if it's feasible to purchase and make the conversion or engage an architect to assist in the determination. Depends on their comfort level researching and making the call on their own.   

Jared W. Smith, RA

Principal Architect - Architect Owl

Hello @Giancarlo Sarmiento, I work throughout NYC and deal with these type of conversions regularly. As far as the real estate investing, yes Queens can be pricey, as most of NYC doesn't meet the 1% rule. 

In your circumstances, you will need to talk to an architect. (An expediter typically files and coordinates with the Building Department to obtain construction permits.) An architect would review the prospective property against the zoning and building requirements to determine if it can be changed from single family to 2-family.

One largest con is based on the financials. You will have to determine if the numbers work with the purchase price, the cost to complete the renovations, including holding cost until it's ready to be rented and cashflow starts coming in. Hope that helps.  

If you'd like to talk more about these services, send me a message.

Jared W. Smith, RA

Principal Architect - Architect Owl

To @Christopher B.’s point- a draftsman is not an architect and will usually have less skills and qualifications for your scope of work. Clarify you scope and ensure the experience level of the party you choose. Also if you do not have a general idea of what needs to be done and structural framing members need to be sized which were damaged or for new layout, save the headache and get an architect/engineer out the gate @Brad Sparks.

Jared W. Smith, RA

Principal Architect - Architect Owl

Why would the poster need to own the plan @Raju Balakrishnan?

Jared W. Smith, RA

Principal Architect - Architect Owl

This very much depends on the location and scope of the project. An experienced flipper may have limited need for an architect, but many urban and suburban municipalities require a design professional (architect or engineer) for even minor projects. I’m not saying there aren’t those that don’t skip these requirements at their own risk. As a novice whom may have minimal construction experience, having a knowledgeable professional on your team seems like a no brainer. 

I just finished a flip with an investor in a new market recently, my experience with the building department, the need for an architect/engineer to sign & seal documents and the requirement to obtain a new certificate of occupancy proved vital in getting the project done. 

Jared W. Smith, RA

Principal Architect - Architect Owl

Happy to be able to assist. Be sure to check all the loan details just to be sure.