We're currently vetting architects/engineers and looking at construction loans. 

I would reach out to a local environmental engineering company to discuss what you are wishing to do. 

Some municipalities may ask you to tear it down, some "may" say OK with full engineering reports "if" there are other duplexes in the area.

I'm a software engineer looking to get into real estate investing.

Ask your agent/contractors for a referral engineer.

You're talking needing plans, architect drawings, engineering study, a zillion permits and inspections.I just don't see a lender lending on this kind of deal without that person having major experience that includes some ground up or extensive rehab work.If you wanna "break in" to the financing world, it is not impossible at all. 

But I don't think that's the case for most people.I am just a housewife, but my husband is an engineer and has an MBA. 

I have a background and education in Construction Engineering and worked in commercial construction for the better part of a decade while I was investing in residential real estate on the side.I've been in brokerage as a real estate advisor for the past 4+ years full time and I specialize in 2-4 unit residential multifamily which accounts for half of what I do (about 2 or 3 multifamily deals a month) and the other half consist of single family homes and condos.I grew up in San Diego and its all I know, I got my undergrad in Construction Engineering and Graduate degree in Business locally also.I am a big fan of starting off investing locally with low money down and that is how I personally started myself...I read a ton of books and listened to countless hours of podcasts but all the magic happened when I stopped reading and listening and started taking action.Welcome and feel free to send me a private message if you want to chat.

I have been into real estate for over 10 years now while working as an engineer.

An additional benefit of a detailed engineering-based Cost Segregation Study is that it can increase potential insurance premium savings as well as provides support for the property tax appeals process.Additionally, it can help maximize renovations and improvements.A Cost Segregation study is an IRS approved federal income tax tool that increases near term cash flow by utilizing shorter recovery periods for depreciation to accelerate return on investment.