Duplex zoned as single family

[Bill E.]

Hoping to get some insight on an off market up and down duplex in Pittsburgh that I am interested in. The property has been owned by the same owners for about 20 years. After calling the county assessor, they have this property recorded as a single family home. They also said that if the home is being used as a duplex, they would need to be informed. Has anyone run into this before? What kind of process is it to have this property be a legit duplex? Should I stay away from this deal? Thanks in advance

[Tamara Deering]

Check the zoning, if a duplex is allowed you are okay.  If not you will need to find out about requesting a zoning variance or a change to the zoning laws.  Depending on how complex and convoluted that process is in Pittsburg it may be a red flag.  If the price was right and there are other multifamily units in the vicinity it should probably be doable otherwise you may want to walk away.