I have a duplex, should I remodel the attic into another unit or an extra bedroom for my side.?

I wonder which is cheaper, I haven't talked to a contractor yet. I would like an extra room, but I could get more income from another unit. I'm not sure how much I can get from refinancing. I think alot of the expense would come from the labor, there will have to be a stairway put in.

Answer:
I agree that you should definitely check zoning laws. Also, from a pure ROI standpoint, you could get more on a resale if you add an extra bedroom to your unit vs. trying to add a small unit (that might be harder to fill due to space and the access concerns you cited).
Well the first question is what does Zoning say. Also for resale a small extra appt is actually liable to make the house harder to sell. It would probably be best to go with the extra room.
Do your homework first, what can you get for rent in your area for the size of area you are planning to renovate, get at least 3 quotes from reputable contractors (check everything they tell you, including insurance &Licenses). Contact 3 lenders and or Mortgage Brokers and find out what its going to cost to finance your addition. Get a Good Faith Estimate. Determine wether you need to refinance your existing loan or just get a 2nd Mortgage.

Take notes and then make an educated decision.

Good Luck!
Check with zoning first.

Where I live, most tenants who have been rented illegal apartments are entitled to 6 times the monthly rent for relocation expenses. Doing this incorrectly could be a very costly mistake if you have a similar law in your area.

Also, are you prepared for the additional noise of someone living above you?
Make it a PARTY room and then invite all your friends over, drink lots of tequila and hope your tenant does not move out from all the naked abandonment going on above.

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