If you've done it before (specially in the Bay Area), please shed some light on detail cost and time line please.Now, I think I have 3 options:1) Originally plan: split into 2 lots,  - remodel front house to build a big house (~3000 sqft) for front lot   - build new one (~3000-3500 sqft) in back lot2) Split into 2 lots (same as option 1): - build a smaller house (~1800-2200 sqft); build an ADU ~700 sqft for front lot - build 3 townhouses in the back lot ranging from 1500-2000 sqft3) Keep the whole lot, build 5 town houses ranging from 1700-2200 sqft I'm leaning toward option 2 for a couple of reasons:- Quicker turn around: much quicker to get plans drawn up & get building permits for- Can split into 2 phases: front lot, back lot- Lower cost for phase one (front lot) - Easier to sell- If I want to hold it instead of sell, 2 types of properties (SFH & town houses) is probably more preferable than just 5 town houses.Opinion, advice are welcome please!

One thing I would suggest is to look at the zoning laws and permits needed to do this transformation.

As a structural engineer in San Francisco, I've been on the permit, design, and construction side of single and multi-unit residential buildings for quite some time. 

As a structural engineer in San Francisco, I've been on the permit, design, and construction side of single and multi-unit residential buildings for quite some time. 

She even got a permit bond for just $100 last week to get permit in Missouri City since my contractor don't have it.. 

A good contractor can do this no problem and get a hard copy of the permit.

Finally, the permitting office is so busy, backed-up, and bureaucratically inept that we are having a hard time getting stuff accomplished. 

I *could* add another meter; however, its several thousand bucks, several permits, and a curious county asking why on earth would I want another meter on a SFH :)@Mart Brosas Best of luck to you with your first property, I think house-hacking is the easiest way in, and makes the most sense due to good financing options for owner-occupied.

Or just buy the STR permit and build the cost of the permit into the rent. 

Hi Deb,This is simply the case because 1) it is a small area relative to other suburbs and municipalities comprising Greater Cleveland and 2) it is more predominantly homeowner-occupant based than renter based.Olmsted Township requires a rental permit to lease out your property.