All Forum Posts by: Calvin Kwan

Hey Daniel! How's it going? I definitely don't have 7500sqft, so I will need to go the variance route. Assuming plans are needed to secure a permit. Do you know if inspections are needed before or after?

Hi Guys, My duplex in Oakland is zoned RM-2. I would love to convert my duplex to a triplex if possible. I'm currently renovating my rear unit and it has the perfect layout to split into 2 units by adding a wall and an additional front door. To do this legally, I know plans need to be drawn and submitted to the Planning Board. Can I submit these plans or does it need to be done by my contractor? Are inspections needed before and after the work? Has anyone had any experience with this process? According to the Planning Board, the intent of the RM-2 Zone is to create, maintain, and enhance residential areas characterized by a mix of single family homes, duplexes, townhouses, small multi-unit buildings, and neighborhood businesses where appropriate. I'm assuming by definition I am zoned to convert to a triplex? Thanks for all your help! Calvin

There's one currently in there, and I've asked them to use it.  It's an older unit and I may just replace it.  Honestly, I'm not sure how consistent they are with using it.

Hey Guys,

So my tenants have been complaining about mold that's showing up in their bathroom.  I just purchased the property and the previous landlord had remedied the situation by replacing the bad drywall and using mold resistant paint.  Unfortunately, the mold is back.

When I asked the tenants if they are opening the windows when they showered, they said they aren't as it is cold and uncomfortable.  I informed them that the reason mold keeps reappearing is because of the moisture in the room when showering.  

They don't seem to want to open the windows when showering, so how can I fix this problem.  They reported the previous landlord to the city for this same mold issue.  I want to fix the problem, but mold will continue to be an issue if they don't open the window for ventilation.

Any ideas here?

Thanks,
Calvin

Hey Guys,

I'm in the middle of my renovation and need to dump a lot of construction material - plywood, sheetrock, etc.  Is there a place that I can dump these materials and waste?  I was only able to find dumps that charge you to drop off waste.  Are there free ones I can deliver to?

Thanks,
Calvin

Thanks for all the feedback!  I wound up ordering my cabinets and adding a peninsula for additional counter space.  I realized that my unit is a 4 bdr, so extra counter space will be necessary.  Here's the final design.

Keep in mind that if you go the CapEx route, make sure it's completed by Feb 17. After that, the cost amortizes over the life of repair, instead of 5 years. Huge difference.

You can raise up to 10% if you can bank rent and pass through CapEx. That's probably the easiest way to get above CPI rent increases.

@Simon Gill - i believe KWW doesn't cut and install the countertops. Did you find someone else to do that?  Thanks. 

Hey Sam. Went to KWW and their prices are great. Did you get your countertop from them as well. Also, what kind of tiles are you using in your bath?