All Forum Posts by: Dorothy Ma

Looking for a recommendation on a specialty contractor that deals with wood siding or wood finishing (exterior) in Denver - Thanks!! 

@Sam Cain What city is this in? The zoning you mentioned doesn't sound like Denver so I am assuming maybe Aurora?  Anyway, your best bet is to at least have a conversation with the city.  The storefront sounds like commercial and you want to make sure it's zoned for multi-family.  If you're combining different uses, ie commercial retail with residential, you may need to rezone when you combine the lots.  I am a developer and architect here in Denver and would be happy to chat with you.

Matt, I am interested can you send me additional info? Thanks

I second Matt, check to make sure your house does not have historic designation. Also, what is your existing tap size? You may be able to get a credit for it

Who is the builder?

Find a good mentor. There are also different levels of involvement of developers. A lot of smaller residential developers I know started in the real estate industry because finding the right deal is key - especially in a hot market. Some developers I know are involved in more of an investment level and hire other people to do everything else while others are on site often and have the construction project management in house.  But all in all, you need access to funds and the capital to get a construction loan.  

@Adam Bauman what is the zoning? If there is development potential the land is worth a lot more. I'm also actively looking so let me know what you have in inventory.

Construction loans are expensive, and require a lot of equity - typically 20-30% of the construction cost.  If you have the money, great.  Next you'll need to make sure you hire the right people if you've never done this before.  You'll need to right architect who understands zoning and how to get through the city if your city permitting is anything like it is here in Denver.  You'll need to hire contractors that you or your architect trusts with experience, etc.  Are you going to manage the project? etc..

@Eric Young curious where you came up with 4 units and if someone has already done the zoning study based on your lot size that 4 units is what you can fit under the row house zoning designation. I'd be happy to chat with you as I'm a developer and architect active in the Denver area so I can point you in the right direction. PM me and we can chat.

For my 6plex I'm wrapping up the xcel numbers are close to what Travis mention.

@Account Closed - I know you mentioned you wanted to learn anything you can about real estate, but would love to hear more specifics, PM and we can grab coffee sometime