All Forum Posts by: Joey P.

Quote from @Rick Albert:

I would talk to someone who understands this and explains the probability of success. That's really what this comes down to. Even if it passes, what's the process? It might just make more sense to buy another property and move on. If it passes and they have a grip on the process, now you have two properties where you can add an ADU to each.

I don't know Chicago but would it require a hearing? If so, even if the City wants it, the neighbors may not and shut it down. I've seen it happen before here in LA.

There have not been a lot of ADUs completed in Chicago in the pilot area. Im not sure if it’s due to lack of interest by the homeowners or if it’s due to process issues with the city. The city wide ADU may never make it into law who knows. 

Quote from @Seb Ko:

What's your opportunity cost for waiting? ADU zone expansion is not certain, and even then who knows what the rules will be (owner-occupied requirement, etc). If you are comfortable with the rezone process I would look at this, and perhaps you can still ADU in future after the rezone. My 2 cents.

Hi Seb. Thanks for the comment. Cost to wait is maybe save couple grand on zoning attorney but could potentially make that up by earning some rent earlier (vs. unused space). Still need architect and project would cost more or less same. If I have rezoning then maybe that allows me some flexibility if ADU program does come in. 

Hi- I have a 3 flat that is not within the ADU zone. With the city contemplating expanding the ADU ability to city wide, is there any benefit to doing a rezoning now (assuming successful) before the citywide expansion takes place? So for example if I rezone from RS-3 to RM4.5 and add a basement unit (4th unit), maybe I can then add a ADU above the garage, or do another studio in the basement, once the citywide program is opened up?

Thanks everyone

You need a "Manual J" calculation for system sizing. You can ballpark it here:

https://www.servicetitan.com/tools/hvac-load-calculator

Could probably get away with 2 well placed mini splits. Garden usually is cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. As far as humidity, could just put a dehumidifier with a pump going to a drain/sink.

You can turn off water service at the B-box (buffalo box) outside of the property. Should be in the parkway (on the street side of the sidewalk), look for a blue metal circle in the grass somewhere. You can google how to do it but local hardware store should have all the tools you need. You may have a shut off inside the building before the meter too which would be easier. 
Once you have the water turned off, you can loosen the connection at the water meter and let all of the water out. There will be lot of water probably, but if you have a drain nearby and basement isn't finished it shouldn't be a big deal. 

Or, if all of this seems like too much or doesn't make any sense at all-- just call a plumber :)

Have a look at your doors, maybe there is something you can do to make them close softer. If there is a specific reason that music too loud during the middle of the day is a problem I would be clear with them. If its just "bothering" you then I would think you should lighten up. However, she does seem overreacting with that long of a text. Her pregnancy seems irrelevant and the fact she brought that up seems like a huge red flag to me.

Quote from @Amir Haq:

We recently did this for a project in Avondale, dug down about 2ft and it was almost 800sq/ft.  There is a TON to consider, as others are saying - you need to do some initial holes to see how far the current foundation goes.  It's expensive but if you do it right - it could be the right decision.   I have quotes I received, my cost, etc. if you're interested - PM me.

 Hi- I saw your post about underpinning. Was wondering if you could share your experience. Im interested to do something with my basement and trying to weigh options. Thank you! For some reason I can’t PM