Add On built on setback line

[Tyler Young]

Hello, I am trying to make an offer on a fixer upper and discovered the survey shows an add on built slightly over the setback line. I looked for permits online hoping they were given variance and found several permits but none for this add on. I know am trying figure out what my options are and what risk this carries. Agent thinks it will never be an issue but I am not as optimistic, at the very least I would think when I sell the buyers will be thinking what I am now. Curious if there are ways to protest the setback line or be grandfathered, etc. Worst case I lower my offer and redo the add on I guess. Any advice on how to approach this situation is greatly appreciated!

[Mindy Jensen]

This agent's comment makes me angry. I am not sure they have your best interest at heart.

DO NOT make an offer until you check in with the building department of this city. 

In a neighboring town (granted they are ridiculously strict) they made someone who did not get a permit remove the addition and restore it to its original condition.

Once you own the property, all these issues are yours to deal with.

DEFINITELY know what you're getting into with this, and call the agent out on crap advice like this.