All Forum Posts by: Mary Umoh

Thank you for your insights @Frank Chin, @Armstrong Maignan, and @Evan Polaski !

Here in Philly, they have a beta 'Philadelphia Permit Navigator'  on the L&I website that I've been on. I'll for sure need an architect and lawyer amongst other players. I shouldn't need to obtain a variance since the property is RM1 by right, but doing my due diligence to figure out these moving parts now.

Hello BP community,

I’m currently exploring the possibility of converting a single-family home in Philadelphia, which is zoned RM-1, into a multifamily property. I’d love some guidance and insights from those of you who have done similar projects, particularly in Philadelphia.

Any advice on navigating Philadelphia’s L&I process? Are there any hurdles I should anticipate with zoning or permits?

What challenges did you face during your conversion? Anything you would have done differently to save time, money, or headaches?

I’m eager to hear from those with firsthand experience. Thanks in advance for your insights!

- Mary 

Hi Bruce!

The training I’d received under a brokerage would be invaluable to me instead of going at it on my own.

It’s huge in Texas, believe they call it apartment locating out there. 

Sure thing regarding strategy, if it’s not viable to do here in Philly then I’ll go elsewhere since it can be done remotely. 

Hi @Abel Curiel!

That’s great advice and looks to be the best route for me to take. I’ll start doing further research into the brokers you provided. I found one thus far.

I believe it’s harder to sell a house than lease an apartment. I just want a lower barrier to entry and less competition to start, and also get more acclimated with the city.

Apartment complexes being built here are going up at high volumes.

I’m set to take my real estate exam in PA and wanted to know if anyone could recommend any brokers that specialize in solely working with leases.

It’s a small niche that I can’t find many brokers doing in Philly.

Any insight is much appreciated!

Yes, I'll take that. I will send you a message.

Thanks, John, I'll send over a message. 

Hey BP,

I’m in the process of choosing a lender for purchasing my first home. I’m approved for the Philly First Home Program grant and need a lender that accepts this grant.

I’ve spoken to a few lenders and my search has been lukewarm. Some say they aren’t sure if the grant is excepted and will get back to me and never do. Others give inaccurate information after speaking with various loan officers at the same bank.

I’m with Affinity Credit Union but I don’t qualify for their 3% down conventional loan since I’m looking to purchase a duplex.

Some of the places I’ve already spoken to are loanDepot, Fulton Bank, Customers Bank and I’m waiting on someone to call me back from M&T Bank. I'd prefer going with a good local small bank.

Any suggestions are much appreciated.

Oh wow. That's good stuff right there!

@Troy Sheets

That's amazing! I'm sure the rents from the 3 other units covered your full mortgage payment. I'd really like to grab a coffee and talk RE. Happy to learn and add whatever value I can to you.