my first subdivision?

Hi Mark,

The first thing you need to find out is if it is possible to put more than one dwelling on the block. If you have a look at http://www.dse.vic.gov.au you will be able to see the zones and overlays that affect your property. You will also find the local planning scheme there, for a bit of light reading.

If it is possible to get a permit, you then have to look at the costs involved, particularly building costs and make a decision as to whether the likely end price of the development justifies the risk. From what I understand, building costs usually come out at around $10,000.square.

Regards
Alistair

Hi markeddy,
Having a done a few subdivisions in the western suburbs, on corner blocks, but the general rule of process should be the same. The process I have followed was:

*Find an licensed Land Surveyor first. To draw up your land/block measurements. Try and find one that is experienced in that council/region/area which is important.

*They usually can also recommend a draftsman (for the plans etc.). Or again try and find one that has done a few in your council. Usually they are on a first name basis with the people in the front line of the right council departments. This can save you a lot heart ache down the track.

*The Draftsman will guide with you through all the planning and permit stages. So be sure use their knowledge and experience once your have engaged their services.

*Each time I have done this the overall for me cost for these processes is approx $3-4k. This gets me to the final plan and permit approval stage and ready for sale of the land (if you don’t want to build on it yourself, I sell every time). Timeline for this process for me is usually approx 4-6months assuming all goes to plan. (This timeline includes objections from neighbours, VCAT mediations etc..)

*I find my worst case scenario is if I choose my location/suburb well then the existing dwelling will return me some decent amount of rent (5-6% yield at the moment) all the while the plans are going through.

Of course all this is only my opinion based on my personal experiences. It’s all hard work but is can be very rewarding if you follow the right process and use the qualified or licensed people’s advice.

Sorry to waffle on. I Hope this answers your original question and helps you out.

Good luck with it.[biggrin]