How do you rename a property?

Question

If you purchase a property such as a 10 unit apartment building how do you rename it?

Account Closed · Answer

@Nathan G. I just feel as if this is important but no one talks about it. Let’s say I purchased an apartment building called Sunrise Building with bad reviews all over the internet and a good value add opportunity.

I may rename it to Lightgate apartments and update google with the new name and create a website to rebrand it. Then I may hire new management etc.

I’m sure there may be legal requirements to change a property’s name. Maybe in the papers when buying and selling a property it happens there idk.

Nathan Gesner · Answer

I have never heard of a law regulating the naming of a building. It's not a legal name like a business registered with the state. You call it whatever you want. If you are putting a sign on the building or in the ground, you have to follow the City/County law and possibly apply for a permit, provide them with a drawing, etc. As long as it's not offensive, they could care less what the name is.

Yes, it definitely makes sense to rename a property if it has a bad reputation.

Russ B. · Answer

I don't think there are many buildings that have official names.. even in historic districts, you maybe can't change the appearance of a building, but you can call the business inside it whatever you want.

In the example, you'd simply pull the old sign down and put up a new one, probably as part of whatever other remodel you'd do. The only thing you might need a permit for (and zoning, etc. might apply to), is putting up the physical sign.

Nathan Gesner · Answer

You put a sign in the ground with a new name?

I don't think there's a legal requirement to register the apartment complex name but you should probably check with your Secretary of State or the local City.