Room NO Window Can I Rent as Office Space?

Question

I am trying to buy first property to house hack, live in for 1 year, and buy another. The house has the master bedroom with a window that leads to an added enclosed room that looks like it was previously a sun-room. It has a restroom with a window in it as well, but the actual room does not have a window leading to the outside (I just learned it's called egress). The only window is leading to an enclosed space. My question is, can I legally rent this space? Maybe label it as an office space? I got a good deal on the house, but do not want to invest in it if I would be out of compliance with renting regulations. I do NOT want a lawsuit or do not want bad living conditions for tenants either. What do y'all think?

Maria Mora · Answer

Thank you so much for responding to my question! I appreciate it 🙏

I don't have friends or family or time to look for a real estate community that would be able to help with these kinds of questions so this really does help me tremendously.

Thank you 🙏

Bruce Woodruff · Answer

How hard would it be to put in a proper sized window? I would be careful renting it out to anyone who even might use it as a bedroom..... Something happens and they will say that you alluded to the possibility of using it as a bedroom......

Adding a window somewhere should be pretty easy....

Guy Gimenez · Answer

It would be considered a 2 bedroom with a "flex space" which means you have one extra bedroom to rent. I'm having to make some assumptions because there is missing info in your post, but it sounds like the flex space doesn't have a separate door to the exterior. If so, the flex space is only useable for you since you don't want a stranger entering your master bedroom in order to access the flex space. If that's the case, the flex space adds no value from an income standpoint, unless you spend a little money to put in an exterior door and window.

Kristin Flores-Brockman · Answer

Ahh Alright.

I am not familiar with that market. I am in DFW. However, I would list it as a 2bed/2bath with a Bonus room. There is a lot of value with bonus rooms, that allows people to do what they wish with the room. There are a lot of people working from home and/or home schooling and looking for a room that would work for them. Also, people look for a game room or something for guests.

Take good photos and write a good description and you should be fine.

Maria Mora · Answer

3 bed, 2 bath. Realtor just told me now they may say it's considered 2 bed, 2 bath. Which brings up another set of questions.

When I go to rent, will I receive less rent bc its only considered 2 bed 2 bath instead of 3 bed 2 bath? I would like to know if theres a way to word it to where I am providing a space, but it is not considered a bedroom due to no windows and I am not legally bound to whatever the tenant decides to use it as.

Kristin Flores-Brockman · Answer

How many beds and baths in the house and where is it located?