The Multiplex Playbook
Duplexes, triplexes, and fourplexes are the "missing middle" — small enough for a first-time developer, big enough to matter. This playbook walks the entire deal: confirming the zoning allows it, sizing the buildable yield, underwriting the cost, and structuring the financing so it actually pencils.
Four units on one lot — small enough to finance, big enough to matter.
Illustrative massing — the same parcel scaled from one home to a four-unit "missing middle" building.
Why the multiplex is the smartest first project
Many cities have legalized two to four units on lots that used to allow only one. That single change can multiply the value a lot supports — and a multiplex is small enough to finance, build, and manage without a large team.
Seven steps from lot to leased-up
Run these in order. Each step has a clear go / no-go so you stop early on deals that will not work.
The numbers that decide it
A multiplex pencils or it does not — and these are the levers. Know your local figures and run them before you offer.
A fourplex feasibility snapshot
The whole deal on one screen — what it costs, what it makes, and the verdict.
Illustrative snapshot — the levers above plugged into one fourplex deal.
Common ways a multiplex goes sideways
Run this playbook in UnlockLand
Keep going
See if your lot can carry a multiplex
Run the address through UnlockLand and get zoning, buildable yield, and a feasibility read in minutes.