All Forum Posts by: Oscar Martins

In the process of flipping my first home and had a question regarding permits. I’m planning on adding a window to the front of the house, closing a kitchen door that leads outside and making that area to a pantry, and cutting a square in the wall that separates the family room and kitchen. I spoke to the town building department very briefly and they said I need architectural drawings and permits for all three, but I’ve heard horror stories about inspectors and inspections. I plan on putting in recess lighting, which I will put a permit in for. My question is, how will the town know if I’ve put in permits for the 3 things mentioned above? Can I claim ignorance? Say those things we’re done when I bought the house? How will the inspector know that the wall was opened up or not? Any advice, guidance and tips would be helpful - thanks!

-Jabraan

I would just go ahead and have an architect draw up plans for the cutout and the install of a new window in the front. When it comes time to sell, the buyers will request the permits for these alterations. The buyers can also go on google images to view the front of the house and they will see changes were made.

I try to make the least amount of alterations as possible, mostly cosmetic. The cost to hire an architect isn’t cheap and most of them are swamped with work. Can you keep the existing door in the back and install extra cabinetry? I have sold many homes and not one had a pantry. Good Luck.

1 Vote

Jersey City, New Jersey

Seems high. I suggest you shop around. Good luck.

0 Votes

Fort Worth, Texas

Installing carpet with a pad underneath is your best and cheapest solution. Insulating in between the joists can help but won’t make a huge difference. Good Luck.

1 Vote

All Forum Posts by: Oscar Martins

Oscar Martins has started 0 posts and replied 3 times.

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