Has anyone converted a one family into two?

I am in Queens and we are looking into doing this. The contractors came today to look around and they made it sound like a nightmare to get all the permits and the architect to draw it up etc.

I guess I just need a little insight into how long the process could be and how bad it is

thanks!

Re: Has anyone converted a one family into two?

hi,

we originally planned on doing this, then changed to just adding a second level and now we are just renovating what we have and adding a bathroom It didn't make sense for us to invest so much $$ but for you it may be different. There is definitely a lot involved from permits to architects to structural support!

GL!

Re: Has anyone converted a one family into two?

we are in the process of doing this. right now i have a 2 family/md. but havent made it legal per say yet !!! Its not so bad as far as permits & such are concerned, The contractor & architech should guide & help you with that. We have to get a variance, which if anything is time consuming..In the end to me its worht it

Re: Has anyone converted a one family into two?

Thanks for the responses!

I think this will be worth it b/c we only have to pay what is left on the mortgage, the payments are VERY low and then in the end it will be the best for us AND for my parents who will be living with us AND I get to raise my children in my childhood home! I think it will be great!

(trying to stay positive! LOL)