What is the deal with multiple houses on a single plot?

[Heather R.]

Hi BP! I am currently looking for small multi-family units around the Tacoma WA area and I keep running across listings with several houses on a single parcel. I can see some downside in purchasing these (vs. a single building) as now you have multiple roofs etc. But is there any real reason to not consider these? (e.g., Is it harder to get financing? Do they depreciate differently than a single building?)

[Lindel Turner]

There is a zoning for multiple buildings on one lot. However zoning regulations can change. Density and set backs from roads. Many older parts are town when regulations were lax you may find now they are now non conforming. So check each parcel very carefully. Check lot size, zoning, does it conform? What happens if it burns down or if you want to tear it down to build new? Once your satisfied. Move forward. For example In my area RM8 means 8 units per acre.