In most areas, you also have restrictive covenants (HOA) so any time you want to paint a property different color, you have to submit that paint color for architecture review.

I'm degreed in architecture and the educational background help a lot.

This means that many elements of the contracting environment can be hardwired into the architecture of the security.

The architectural style of the house makes it challenging to put gutters around the front roofline  due to some overhangs ( 2 on each side of the house that goes straight out in a rectangular shape like an inverted U shape but with sharp straight corners and there’s 1 middle overhang that’s like an inverted V shape that is also attached to the roofline and come straight out of the front so  rain water will come from those as the overhang covers a portion of the front and will kind of serve as an extension of the roofline. 

Set backs are not proper, one water meter serves both properties, and sewer for one runs under the other house.I know I'm in for something close to $50K in engineering and filing fees to do this, but my question is: is anyone familiar with engineering /architecture firms here that are pros as far as getting this done, ie, it's what they do? 

And they just hosted a reception at the urban planning conference last week at the school of architecture and urban planning.

i mean step by step (architectural planning / permits etc...) just bought a duplex in STL in i'm looking to convert it into a single home and sell it. it's my first conversion and i'd like to minimize mistakes.. thanks!

I would try to get permitting for 2-4 units if possible.2) New construction would run you about $165 sq/ft  in the area.Im looking at a new construction project for a 1300 sq ft sfh near 66th/westernif you need to tear down the existing structure may be more. 3) first steps is get architecture drawings, understand the utilities needed, then permitting.  

Thankfully with our studies in architecture we were able to figure out a way to design a small duplex and maximize the potential of this property.

Yes, it forces me to save in the form of equity and is protected from the rent increases I was facing at my previous residence, but I turned a blind eye to house hacking because of my love of home design, architecture, and having a space to myself that I really enjoy.