Converting a garage into living space.

[Demetrius Lindsey]

Hey BP Family!

So I have a decent size Triplex in a great B neighborhood close to a lot of shopping a private college.

I'm looking to maximize this property's space. There is a detached 3 car garage on the property. I want to convert this into living space. Potentially add a level or take two bays and convert them.

The property is zoned for multifamily up to 4 units and we only have 3 currently. Reaching out to get some advice on a project like this. Also, has anyone done this in Milwaukee Wi before not sure about building a garage out? Cost to a project like this. One point of reference I know I can get a min $850 a month for a studio that is completely rehabbed in my neighborhood.

The end strategy is either an AIRBNB or long term rental.

[Marcus Auerbach]

Good thinking, but the numbers won't work, not in Milwaukee. That's basically new construction, even if you get permits (questionable) for it and you can ignore the fact that you are loosing of garage parking, you have to run water/sewer/power to the street and then demo and build new. 

At about $200 / SF - that would only work in some of the most expensive neighborhoods in Milwaukee. When you plan it out you will see that saving the existing garage structure and converting it is not worth it. 

You end up with a really compromosed living space and by the time you add kitchen/bathroom its almost as expensive as new construction, better to bulldoze and build new. And that's expensive. 

In warm climates like CA it's easier to run water/sewer, in Wi we have to burry it at least 6ft to protect them from frost.