West Hollywood, Los Angeles - Apartment Conversion

[Jennifer Matsumoto]

I have a client that has apartments in West Hollywood. He is looking into a Apartment conversion to possibly convert to condos. Anyone have experience with this?

If anyone has tips on the first steps that would be helpful. This is a prime location.

[Lee Ripma]

@Jennifer Matsumoto

How many units is it?

[Jennifer Matsumoto]

@Lee Ripma

22 Units. 

[Jennifer Matsumoto]

@Lee Ripma

22 Units

[Lee Ripma]

@Jennifer Matsumoto

I’m not sure what the rent control laws are in West Hollywood and how replacement units work. I think it may be the same as the City of LA. If it was a small apartment I had an idea that I thought might work but 22 units is too large I think. I know the legal on condo conventions are expensive but I’m sure you’ll be able to find a lawyer who can give you a quote. The thing I’d really look into is the existing tenants and if you do an Ellis Act eviction do you have to provide replacement units. Or will your client be able to get them out? Tenants are often the biggest challenge to something like this.

[Jennifer Matsumoto]

@Lee Ripma  Thank you!! 

[Andrew S.]

@Jennifer Matsumoto

West Hollywood has its own Rent Stabilization Ordinance, it’s separate from the City of Los Angeles. It’s one of the main reasons why the city was formed in 1984.

I would go to the WeHo website and look up the number for the RSO staff person. They are typically pretty helpful.