3 dwellings on a lot that's zoned for 2 dwellings

3 dwellings on a lot that's zoned for 2 dwellings

Redondo Beach, CA · Member since 2015 · 22 posts · 1 vote

Hi BP,

I heard from a motivated seller who wants to sell a multifamily property.

They report there are 3 units on the lot - a 2/1 and 2 x 1/1.

In doing my due diligence I've noticed that only 2 buildings appear on the tax records (a 2/1 and a 1/1) and that the lot is zoned 'MDR' which according to the city's municipal code can mean 2 single-family dwellings or 2 2-family dwellings or one single-family dwelling and one 2-family dwelling may be constructed thereon and so used.

From another source it said the zoning is LRR2* but I'm not familiar with what this means. Does anyone know?

From street view it's pretty clear there are 3 dwellings and one looks to be a converted garage which I assume was not legally permitted.

I have not come across this situation and wondered how I should proceed with this? Submit an offer that reflects the lesser rent from only 2 units less any costs to remove the illegal rooms/dwelling? Or not touch it with a barge pole?

Thanks,

Chris

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  • Rental Property Investor · Phoenix, AZ · Member since 2016 · 553 posts · 314 votes
    9y

    Go to the city and verify the zoning. Pull records from the city clerk to see what has been done there in the past.

  • Redondo Beach, CA · Member since 2015 · 22 posts · 1 vote
    9y
    Thanks Seth Borman I will call to confirm. Assuming that they do confirm it's the zoning mentioned above as I pulled that from a map on their site, what would you recommend?
  • Rental Property Investor · Phoenix, AZ · Member since 2016 · 553 posts · 314 votes
    9y

    Underwrite it in legal condition and expect to tear a house down.

  • Redondo Beach, CA · Member since 2015 · 22 posts · 1 vote
    9y

    Thanks again for the advice.

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