All Forum Posts by: David Robertson
David Robertson has started 6 posts and replied 34 times.
Quote from @Josie Kelley:
Hello all! I'm finally closed on the financing for my home renovations and I'm glancing at houses for my future househack. There are few small multifamily properties in Atlanta and surrounding areas so I will be lucky if I find one that fits my parameters and is available once I get my MTR (current home) up and running. I'm also considering homes with in-law suites or split-level homes that can be converted. So, my question is, what should I be considering from a zoning perspective when converting space in a SFR?
Hey Josie,
I am an Architect, and have done a fair amount of work in the City of Atlanta. I'd be happy to chat if you're interested.
Post: In Town Lot Subdivisions
- Architect
- Atlanta, GA
- Posts 35
- Votes 8
Interesting situation here... I've been working on this quadplex project for around a year now. It's mostly been stalled in the planning phase by the local AHJ (City of Atlanta).
During that time, the original developer decides to sell the project to another developer (along with several of their other projects that I am also working on for them). I paired the original developer up with another one of my clients, and now they are in negotiations to sell / buy these projects.
The image below is currently one lot that we are designing one quadplex for. The new developer wants to subdivide the lot and put one triplex or quad on each lot. I've seen this subdivision strategy several times now. Seems to be a trend?
Is anyone else using lot subdivision as a strategy, or is this old news?
Post: Duplex + ADUs Development
- Architect
- Atlanta, GA
- Posts 35
- Votes 8
I spoke with the planner on duty, and the trick is to first apply for a Zero Lot Line (ZLL) configuration. Once that is approved you can submit for permits given that all of the other density metrics are met. The lot we are working with is around 10K SF, so we should be able to get a sizeable duplex with ADUs. Obviously the ADUs are capped at 750 SF.
My client and I are pursuing this option now! I will keep you posted.
Quote from @Azeez K.:
I don't think the city would allow two duplex and ADUs development like the way you are describing in the image above. The city does not allow more than 2 dwellings per lot but I am very curious if this is something the city would allow. Lately, city has been more flexible for high density zoning. However, this would be putting 2 attached units in front and 2 attached units at the back so don't think that would fly but if it does that would be fantastic. I would start by speaking with someone in the zoning department. I built an ADU where the front house was technically a Triplex and back house was an ADU but the ADU couldn't be more than X% of the total area of the main house. Here is a post https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/44/topics/1080563-build... that shows some before after
I am super curious and would be interested to hear on your findings. I have the zoning department email if you want and they are pretty quick to respond. However, it would be best to talk to someone in Zoning. Good Luck and much success.
Post: Duplex + ADUs Development
- Architect
- Atlanta, GA
- Posts 35
- Votes 8
Hi,
I am attempting to develop something similar to this on an R-5 lot in Atlanta. The zoning doesn't allow for more than two dwelling units per lot.
Right now the lot is right at 10,000 SF. Is that interior lot line assumed when a duplex is built, or is some kind of formal process needed?
Has anyone seen or done something similar?
Post: Illegal duplex help
- Architect
- Atlanta, GA
- Posts 35
- Votes 8
@Diego Saavedra what's the zoning designation on the property?
Post: Exclusive Right to Sell 3,300 Residential STR
- Architect
- Atlanta, GA
- Posts 35
- Votes 8
Where is the property located?
Post: Investor looking to connect
- Architect
- Atlanta, GA
- Posts 35
- Votes 8
Hey Clay. Welcome and congrats on starting out!
I'm an Architect based out of Atlanta. Feel free to reach out.
Post: GC building contract template
- Architect
- Atlanta, GA
- Posts 35
- Votes 8
Quote from @Chris Seveney:
@Kj Rustom
AIA contracts are the norm
I saw the post on the GC contract and if it’s a new home builder then correct you would need their contract but I have never had issues having a GC use my contract template. The scope of work of course is thoroughly reviewed and agreed upon.
I would second this. As an Architect I also use the AIA contracts, on all my projects, regardless of size.
Post: New Home Builders - Atlanta Metro
- Architect
- Atlanta, GA
- Posts 35
- Votes 8
I've been working with Francisco for several years now. Great guy.
Post: Landlord looking to convert property
- Architect
- Atlanta, GA
- Posts 35
- Votes 8
I would echo what the others are saying here. Biggest thing, at this point, is to make sure zoning will allow that kind of density / typology on your site. I assume it would be a deal killer if your guys design a quad, and the City won't allow that typology or DUA. If it isn't allowed by right, then you'd have go for rezoning, which is tough to get, and time consuming.
I would also check and see if you need a site survey. If you're staying within the existing footprint or not adding any more impervious area, then you may not. Some Architects will include that, in their proposal, and some won't.
Also see if you need signed / sealed Structural and MEP drawings for permitting. Most AHJs would put a quad in the multifamily realm, and that would require MEP / Structural.