August 27, 2009

Ideas for closing off an alcove

my son is sleeping in an alcove - part of the master bedroom. I believe it used to the dressing room for the master bedroom.

The room itself is about 10 feet by 7feet and the opening is about 100 inches high and 90 inches wide.

The landlord told us that they don't want us to put any hardware into the frame or the floor.

We got quotes from some temporary wall places but I dont know if the landlord will go along with that... They are quoting about $1000 for two years and then about $150 a year after that.

Does anyone have any other ideas on how to section off the space so that it's still accessible but hopefully blocks sound?

Thanks

August 18, 2009

Converting B'stone Into Condo

My family owns a 5 family brownstone in Bed Stuy. We would like to convert it into condos. Does anyone have any advice on how we should get started? What pitfalls should look out for in terms of taxes and conversion fees?

August 4, 2009

Adding a New Floor?

Adding a new floor to a brick house (20 X40)? Here’s the deal: we bought a 3-unit, 3-floor brick house and are wondering if it would be (financially) wise to add up a new floor for extra income ( we would rent 2 units instead of 1) and have the upper duplex for ourselves. Each rental goes for $1300 on the market (in East Williamsburg). One contractor I’ve contacted told me it would cost me around 150K to add the floor (which mean I would have to make a loan for it...). Is the estimate realistic? Would it add significant value to my house? Am I ready to deal with DOB hassle? Does it really worth it?On the other hand I like the idea of a new customized floorplan for our 3 bedrooms- maybe a shower?- and a nice glass/ slate external structure (in my dreams) added to a rather boring looking house…

Thank you for helping me getting through this dilemma! Elido