Episode 21: Leveraging an Architect for Chicago Permits, Building Violations, & Nonconforming and Illegal Units, with Prashanth Mahakali

Prashanth Mahakali is the owner of PMPC Architecture firm here in Chicago and an active contributor to Bigger Pockets. He is also an investor and has built his firm under the notion of smoothly handling all headache permits for his clients. In today's episode, Prashanth talks in depth on handling building violations, expediting permits, and navigating the city's easy permit process. Prashanth provides insights to when you do and do not need an architect, and that when you do need one, get them involved before you close the deal. Lastly, Prashanth also weighs in on one of the more prevalent BP questions in the Chicago forum - how to address nonconforming and illegal units for investment purposes, and the new Chicago ADU guidelines which may be a huge win for property owners. If you find this episode useful, leave a comment and refer us to a friend!   ----------------- Connect with Mark and Tom: StraightUpChicagoInvestor.com Email the Show: [email protected] Guest: Prashanth Mahakali from PMPC Link: https://www.sizzlehomestaging.com/   Link: https://daslawltd.com/   Link: Chicago Residential Architects | Get Free Consultation | Award Winning Licensed Architect   Link: Self-Certification Permit Program   Link: ADU Ordinance Ready for City Council Scrutiny in Chicago   Link: Chicago Cityscape - Find construction activity in Chicago   Link: Tim Ferriss   Link: Easy Permit Program   Email: [email protected]   ----------------- Landlord tip of the week 2:25 Guest Questions Guest Intro. 5:15 How did your work take you to the south and west sides? 7:30 What does it take to get fast permits in Chicago? And explain an expedited permit. 10:15 How do you know if a job is qualified to be self certified? 12:40 In the city of Chicago, what is an easy permit? 14:45 How do we know when an architect would or would not be needed? 16:00 How do you interact with investors and contractors to be a value add? 17:45 Can you explain the legality of nonconforming units for house hacking and the like? 21:20 What are some things people should be aware of related to nonconforming units? 28:20 What is a permit expediter? 36:40   Wrap Up Questions What has been your competitive advantage? 38:25 What is one piece of advice you'd tell a new investor? 40:09 What do you do for fun? 42:20 Can you recommend a self development tool? 45:00 Can you name a local network recommendation? 46:00     That's our show! Thanks for listening! ----------------- Production House: Flint Stone Media Copyright of Straight Up Chicago Investor 2020.