Philadelphia Duplex Conversion to Triplex?

[Ty Thomas]

I bought a duplex that has a basement with a lot of potential for a 3rd unit addition. I've gotten a couple of estimates from contractors, and pricing looks feasible as well. What should I do next to ensure this is a real possibility before moving forward? 

And if it turns out that I am not able to make it officially a third unit, any ideas on how to get my money's worth from the space?

[Daniel Rowley]

Typically, the Philadelphia Zoning Board of Adjustment ("ZBA") and the Planning Commission do not look favorably on units located in basements and they are difficult to get approved. That being said, every property is different with a different set of circumstances, so nothing is impossible.