[19] 43R: create rooms: feasibility of 7+rooms

I see Guang created many rooms. I will need to do the same. I discussed with 冯凯, Kyle and GregR.

Bayonne — I saw a few 2FH units

  • $325k 71 West 13th — 7 rooms realistically
    • 2nd floor same layout, but a small room (with window) can be created, with private entrance.
    • ground floor 3 spacious rooms if I convert the living room
  • $500k 712 Ave E — 9-10 rooms realistic, excluding finished basement
    • 2nd floor 5 rooms if I convert the sunny living room
    • ground floor 4 rooms if I convert the living room
    • Both floors feature a narrow space big enough for a bed and wardrobe, but I can’t remember the windows.
    • basement can open another window towards backyard.

— Attic is most valuable

  • cheaper to implement
  • often has windows on four sides 🙂
  • creating window — presumably easier since the wall is thinner?
  • xp: I have lived in attics twice.
  • need to provide fire escape

— HIGH basement is valuable

  • I think if height is right, then fix-up is affordable.
  • I have seen many basements with some windows .. promising
  • backyard walk-in basement is a rare find and valuable. Kyle grew up in such a house. He agreed that there are more windows in such a basement.
  • two exits required, probably front and back.
  • https://www.hunker.com/12614558/how-to-legalize-a-basement-apartment-in-new-jersey has details on legal requirements

— living room (carve-out)?

  • I prefer less elongated rectangular shapes, because the living room is too big and unusable as tenant rooms.
  • I prefer non-existent living rooms
  • 🙂 If there are windows on the side, then carving out a room is easy, according to Feng Kai.
  • Avoid townhouse and condo completely, due to windows.