What's the best option in my situation?

[Hussain Raza]

I'm a property owner in Philadelphia who purchased a triplex, only to discover it wasn't zoned for that purpose. As a newcomer to the market, I inherited some challenging tenants and had to deal with a "make safe" violation. Now, I'm trying to apply for a rental license, but the city is requiring me to go through zoning because there's no proof the property was previously used as a multi-unit dwelling.

I'm torn between registering the property as a 2-unit or 3-unit dwelling. For 2 units, I'd use the 1st and 2nd floors. For 3 units, I'd use the basement, 1st floor, and 2nd floor (not 3rd floor, assuming it's a typical 2-3 story building). Is it possible to get approval for 3 units in Northeast Philadelphia?

I've consulted a lawyer who estimates the cost for 2 units to be around $5,000. An expediter I spoke with thinks they can apply for 3 units and estimates the cost to be around $8,500. What's the best course of action?

[Chris Seveney]

Quote from @Hussain Raza:

I'm a property owner in Philadelphia who purchased a triplex, only to discover it wasn't zoned for that purpose. As a newcomer to the market, I inherited some challenging tenants and had to deal with a "make safe" violation. Now, I'm trying to apply for a rental license, but the city is requiring me to go through zoning because there's no proof the property was previously used as a multi-unit dwelling.

I'm torn between registering the property as a 2-unit or 3-unit dwelling. For 2 units, I'd use the 1st and 2nd floors. For 3 units, I'd use the basement, 1st floor, and 2nd floor (not 3rd floor, assuming it's a typical 2-3 story building). Is it possible to get approval for 3 units in Northeast Philadelphia?

I've consulted a lawyer who estimates the cost for 2 units to be around $5,000. An expediter I spoke with thinks they can apply for 3 units and estimates the cost to be around $8,500. What's the best course of action?

 I would go with 3 units as the cost will pay for itself quickly over time.