Investor · Atlanta, GA · Member since 2020 · 7 posts · 1 vote
My partner and I are looking at multi-family properties. We are interested in several triplexes. This would be our first purchase of this type of property so we are new to how zoning affects them.
The triplexes we are finding so far are zoned either, Residential 2 family or as Single Family homes. We are wanting put an offer on one specifically that is listed as a SFH but obviously has 3 meters outside. What are some ideas on navigating this zoning complication. Should we be worried? We want to use this as a Triplex. Thank you all for your help!!
Rental Property Investor · Greenwich, CT · Member since 2015 · 4k+ posts · 2k+ votes
6y
The zoning shouldn't be an issue, @Frankie Morris. Make sure you check the city records and confirm that it's a legal triplex, though. Often times a MFR is built (or converted from a large SFH) and then the zoning changes. With very old properties it may have even been built before any zoning was put in place. Alternatively, the property may have received a variance or similar exception in the past and is now grandfathered in.
Investor · Atlanta, GA · Member since 2020 · 7 posts · 1 vote
6y
@Jaysen Medhurst Thank you for your reply. Great points. The one house in particular was built in 1920 so that makes sounds about right it being built before zoning changes. I was just worried about the tax record saying Single Family. We are going to take a closer look at it today.
Investor · Atlanta, GA · Member since 2020 · 7 posts · 1 vote
6y
So I just found out that the property was converted to a Single family and has been rented that way in recent history. The owner says I would have to convert it back to a duplex. Would this deal be one to walk away from if my purpose was to use it as a duplex? I am thinking that the zoning red tape would be difficult to revet the building back to a duplex. Would this be correct?