In CMBS: due diligence is the foundation of the process because of the reliance securities investors must place on the specific expertise of the professionals involved in the transaction.Engineering Report: Report generated by an architect or engineer describing the current physical condition of the property and its major building systems (i.e., HVAC, parking lot, roof, etc.).

This ended up costing over $10k between vacancy, attorneys, architects, etc. and also delayed the close of both properties as lender had cross collateralize mortgages.

Have you discussed the design of the project with an architect?

I think it depends how confident you are the property will close and how much the architect/drafter is charging and what your holding costs are.

You might want to talk to a local architect.

Greg Wang Architect from Houston, Texas

I went to the city and they said I can build an additional 4 units on the property.I am trying to figure out my true cost of building/fees/architect/civil engineer/etc.  

Architect by day, real estate investor by night. 

The commissioner said that I should get an architect involved.

Here's my take: I would definitely have a home inspector, architect, or engineer inspect the foundation walls for structural damage.