Re purposing a Duplex to an SFR in Oakland CA

[Maxwell Manatt]

Looking at a project in Oakland in a very good area. Its a Duplex of about 2000 sq ft in the Front with a cottage around 1000 sq ft in the back with a big lot.

 In this neighborhood (very high end) seems like the best potential return would be to re purpose the duplex in front and sell it as a large single family house with a cottage in back.

Does anybody have experience with a project like this? 

Will the city cause problems to us for turning two units into one?

Zoning of the property is RM-1, here is the definition of that use code per the city website:

RM-1 Mixed Housing Type Residential - 1 Zone. The intent of the RM-1 Zone is to create, maintain, and enhance residential areas characterized by a mix of single family homes and duplexes, and neighborhood businesses where appropriate.

Thank you