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Updated about 3 years ago, 12/13/2021
[Texas] Can I live in a 5 unit commercial MFH?
Hello all. I've come across a 5 unit 1 bed 1 bath property that is commercially zoned. I spoke to lenders to try to acquire a loan on it but they said I cannot purchase a 5 unit+ and live in it as my primary residence. Their answer as to why?
"It's just not done. Fannie and Freddie loans are generally for 1-4 unit properties." This blanket answer does not satisfy me but it is the same one I got from 3 different lenders.
I understand everything over 4 units is considered commercial, but is there any way I can use this 5 unit as my primary residence and rent out the other 4 units?
Could I rent out all 5 for a year then move into a unit once there's a vacancy?
Should I try working with different lenders that are closer to the location of the property instead of big bank lenders?
What are my options here?
Thanks in advance for your input.
-Andrew Vedder, Texas Resident.