Updated almost 6 years ago on . Most recent reply
What Can Be Build on a Vacant Lot?
Looking to build on our 14x51 vacant lot. At first we were going to build as an investment rental or a flip. We decided to look into building as our primary residence. We are in our mid 50’s and it would be nice to downsize in 3-5 years.
My thinking is sort of a loft style / 1 floor living because this would future proof us in our old age, don’t have to climb stairs etc and easy maintenance. Would also be nice to have parking somehow. The lot is located between 2 houses each 2 story.
I imagine one floor and ground level a space for parking.
Can something like this be done in regards to the other 2 houses on both sides and the other houses on the street? I’m sure in the 3-5 year range it can be rented out as a 1 bedroom or something. Thanks!
Most Popular Reply
Hey @Marc Possoff, I am not a zoning attorney or an architect but I do have a lot of experience in this field. Unfortunately, Philly is a tough place to get parking if you do not have it already. If your property does not already have a curb cut you will have to go to the city and apply to have a curb cut with a garage on the ground floor. As far as the actual building goes, you can build a 3 story building with the 3rd story being set back 8 ft. from the front of the building. Because your two neighbors are 2 story buildings you cannot go up 3 full stories by right. You can apply for a variance that would allow you to do so but this can be a lengthy process.