Oakland Condo-ize/ Condo Conversion

[Ryan Coates]

Hi,

I purchased a home off Piedmont Ave that has 3 units. I am living in the main unit on top and it has 2 lower units. The lower units were built ages ago and were probably never permitted and are vacant.

 I am wanting to replace the foundation, raise the house 4ft and convert the building into a duplex and move into the renovated the bottom unit and then rent out the top. 

I am working with an architect and am almost finished with the plans.

I am exploring potentially condo-izing the finished duplex to be able to sell the lower and upper units separately down the road. I have read through the new condo conversion regulations but I feel like I am in a gray area since I don't have tenants and the units were not permitted in the first place.

Does anyone have any experience on how to condo-ize? Do I need to submit the condo conversion permit with my building permit? Any advice on getting this done? 

Thank you all!