There is always something to learn when it comes to property development and this week was no exception.

My new lesson was to do with drainage and subdivision. We'd designed what I thought was a fabulous looking duplex (two attached dwellings).

My brief to our draftsperson was to make the duplex look exciting and interesting from the street, making sure each villa/unit whilst attached, has a different front façade.

I am considering converting an existing block to dual occupancy.

I own the block (and house on it) outright.

The block is 1100 square meters in area.

The existing house is at one end of the block, and dividing the block in half would still leave a meter between the existing house and a dividing fence.

The block is a corner block, and there is provision for a second driveway in the other street.

The zoning in ACT almost precludes sub-division from most blocks. On the ACT Land map it actually has an address for both halves of the block, so my guess is that it was originally proposed and two blocks.

I have verbal approval to commence “the journey” from the ACT authorities.

But I have a question: Where to from here?

Have you had experience in dual occupancies in Canberra, or can you recommend someone?

Happy New Year - I hope you have made some awesome New Year resolutions around property.

My year is off to a great start I'm happy to say. Do you remember the apartment I was selling late last year?