How to Buy Multi Family Use when property is Single Family Zoned??

[Susan Franke]

Hi All,  

I'm looking to get another duplex for the purposes of house hacking. We've done it once very successfully and are ready to give it a go again. However, I'm seeing SO MANY properties that are zoned as Single Family, yet they have 2 units - either a MIL suite or just an addition that's been built.  How does this work legally? Does the zoning need to be changed? Will I get insurance for a multifamily or a single?  I'm told by realtors that "its fine"....I'm not convinced.  I'm in Palm Beach County - West Palm Beach.