Investing and Rehabbing in Rochester New York

[Jim Kalish]

Hi BP friends

I've lived in and have been investing in Charlotte NC for several years.  But after a visit back home to Rochester, NY a couple of weeks ago I'm getting the bug to try investing there.  My question is related to the rehab. Here in NC a GC needs to be licensed to be able to pull permits in most situations.  But based on my research it looks like Rochester, NY doesn't even have licensing for GCs, just the trades.  Anyone can pull a building permit.  Do I have that right?  Also, if I buy a home and list it as my primary residence can I pull the trade permits myself as well?  I know when I lived in Rochester 30 years ago I was able to pull my own electrical permit and do all of the electrical on a house I was having built.  If that still holds true that would be great.  I'd still hire qualified trades people but if I control the permits I can avoid some of the mark ups.  There isn't a lot of room  for profit in Rochester given how inexpensive things are there.  Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Also, if anyone is willing to share pricing they are getting from their subs that would be great.

Thanks,

Jim