Creative conversions - Is 750sf too small for 2bedrooms?

[Vivian K.]

Hi all I'm considering my options for what to do with my condo in the future when I move out.

Currently, it's a 1 bedroom condo with a den that is walled off next to the dining area, with a kitchen & living room, in southern California.

My idea is to turn the den into a second bedroom and get section 8 approved. Would need to expand den size by tearing down one wall and expanding into the little dining space. The restroom is already a jack&jill restroom between the bedroom & the den. Would also turn the long kitchen counter into an island with seating for a more open space feel & to replace dining space. The patio balcony door is in the den. Wall heater & wall AC but it's very breezy with the front& patio doors open.

Questions & Concerns:

(1) Is 750 sqft too small for a 2-bedroom unit?
(When I was in 2nd grade, my family of 5 lived in a 1 bedroom condo with our beds in the living room... so my thinking is a small family of 3 or 4 could just have beds & closet in the 2nd bedroom for young kids.)

(2) Where do I start my research for costs/possibilities?? Do I start with an architect or designer to see if the specs are possible or walk through with an experienced contractor for some very rough numbers? I am emailing my HOA to see if this is even allowed.

Many thanks for your advice & input!! I am a long time BP RE podcast listener and come to BP forums to learn and search. Haven't had to post yet thanks to the many questions & answers already shared. 

[Peter Mckernan]

@Vivian K. for sure reach out to the HOA confirm that before changing anything. I agree with Lee, 750sf is enough for two rooms (I'm building an ADU right now that is 2/1 750sf with a living room and full kitchen), and then I would have a licensed contractor come out for an estimate. The contractor would probably have the ability to draft something and also work with you on the city permits as well (most contractors do this for you). Designer/architect are really not needed; however, that is your decision on what you feel comfortable with on that detail.