All Forum Posts by: Prashanth Mahakali

Hello Eric, I am an Architect willing to help you with any questions you may have. Thank you. Prashanth

Aaron,

I am answering the question as an Architect. The easiest way to find out is by making a call to the Alderman's office. The chief of staff usually will let you know if its worth applying for a zoning change. Once he/she gives a verbal opinion which is not a "NO", then I prepare for a preliminary meeting with the Alderman by showing the existing and proposed drawings. The alderman usually refers you to the local neighborhood group and if they dont have an issue, then you file for a zoning change. These are the preliminary steps. Of course, there are building and zoning related ramifications once you pass zoning change process. In my experience, it usually makes sense to go for a zoning change only when you are adding around 4 units or so in the basement level. Hope this helps.

Mia, I am a licensed Architect as well and can help you with your building violation. Please get in touch if you are still looking for help.

Hello Paul,

I am an Architect & investor here in Chicago. This is a strategy commonly used by my investor clients in Chicago where more often than not, basements are vacant. This is an entire floor waiting to be utilized. I know that it is not an easy process to go through but consult with a local architect to get an idea of cost and time to do this legally with permits. Ask if the Architect has done something like this before and request to speak with that client. Second, get a general contractor to give you en estimate based on the work  and check references again. Also reach out to a local appraiser since its finally up to someone in their role who will make a determination of value to this project. 

To summarize, basement duplexing is a wonderful way to expand the use and value of the property. I would recommend against attempting to do all of this without a permit or against local codes. Good luck!

Looking for an investor for an off-market turn key opportunity in north center (single family new construction) and another one by grand and Ashland(new construction multi-unit) in Chicago. The investor is willing to acquire the lots. If you do not have access to funds we can introduce to our banking partner for construction loan. Pm for more details.

I have had good luck with first eagle bank in Chicago. Please pm me for contact info.

Dannie, I like your typo 'general Conspirators'. Before you get referrals for the GCs do your properties need architectural drawings. It's a good idea to evaluate if the work needs architectural drawings. If it does get an Architect to give you a free consultation and start from there. Once you have architectural drawings, every Gc is bidding on the same information and process will be more streamlined. Let me know if you need help. Good luck finding the conspirators!!(just kidding!")

I have used paylessforgranite.com or http://graniteselection.com/ in the past and have had a good experience with them for my rental properties. 

Hello Amy,

I am a licensed Architect here in Chicago and know quite a few people in the industry. An Architect is able to offer you another perspective on any building you are considering besides making a valuable addition to your real estate team! Good luck!

Milad,

Please get in touch with me at your convenience. My firm is experienced in serving local and out of state investors for Chicago projects. We are very familiar with local building, zoning codes and permit process. Look forward to hearing from you. Thank you.