Builder plans triplex in Nevada Heights neighborhood

A three-unit townhome will replace a single-family home in Spokane’s Nevada Heights neighborhood, according to permits issued by the city.

The development at 52 E. Garland Ave. is about a block east of Division Avenue and a block south of Patrick S. Byrne Park.

When complete, the two-story triplex will have 3,000 square feet and include off-street parking for tenants. The townhome project is valued at $440,000.

The property was purchased by Brian and Tanya Bunker in May 2012 for $35,000. Locha Construction, also owned by the Bunkers, is the project’s general contractor.

“I’m hoping if this good weather holds I can break ground for foundation, which is normally difficult this time of year,” said Brian Bunker, adding the triplex will be complete six months after construction begins.

The project is in the city’s Multiple Family Tax Exemption boundary, which was expanded in August 2017 to include the area in which Bunker’s Garland triplex will be located.

“It’s a gargantuan deal for me,” said Bunker, of the tax exemption. “As a small builder, my pockets are not as deep as others. It helps me out a lot. That’s great incentive.”

Bunker has built a number of multifamily buildings in town, which he prefers to building single-family homes or apartment buildings.

“I like these two- to six- or seven-type units. It gets people away from apartments, but it’s a happy medium,” he said. “Townhouses are a good option that feel more like a home and are more desirable than an apartment.”

Bunker said the rent would be in the $1,000 a month range.