Should I convert a single family home to a duplex?

[Jesse Eberle]

Hello, this is my first time posting, as I'm new to this site.  I've recently closed on a 3/2 house that has had the garage converted to bedrooms (making it a 5 bedroom).  The layout of the house would work well as a duplex.  Market rent on the house is appx.  $1800 as a 5 bedroom.  If I convert it, the 3/1 would rent for around $1500.  The 2/1 smaller unit would rent for around $900.  

There would be some conversion costs, but not cost prohibitive.  What should I know about ?  Am I missing anything?  Thanks.

[David Dachtera]

Originally posted by @Jesse Eberle:

Hello, this is my first time posting, as I'm new to this site.  I've recently closed on a 3/2 house that has had the garage converted to bedrooms (making it a 5 bedroom).  The layout of the house would work well as a duplex.  Market rent on the house is appx.  $1800 as a 5 bedroom.  If I convert it, the 3/1 would rent for around $1500.  The 2/1 smaller unit would rent for around $900.  

There would be some conversion costs, but not cost prohibitive.  What should I know about ?  Am I missing anything?  Thanks.

Well, have you discussed zoning and occupancy with the municipality?

If you can clear those hurdles, are 2/1 and 3/1 what the rental market is seeking that area?

If it's a garage conversion, understand that the added bedrooms may be sitting on the formerly garage floor slab - those floors will be cold and hard, even with padding under carpeting or a "floating" hardwood floor. You'll need to verify insulation in the walls AND the "atiic" (formerly loft) space as well as the roof itself.

You HAVE done a through inspection, right? ... by a professional inspector?

You're prepared to duplicate the plumbing, electrical and heating systems, including adding any additional meters needed?