Is It Problematic to Build Units that Have a Different Look than an Existing Home?

Is It Problematic to Build Units that Have a Different Look than an Existing Home?

Attorney · Charlotte, NC · Member since 2019 · 11 posts · 9 votes

Hey yall--Due to some zoning changes in my area, I have the opportunity to build one (or even more) new units on certain property that seems perfect for this sort of thing. That said, there's an existing house that is quite large and simply does not have the same "look" as the unit (or units) that I could build most economically. For example, the units I'd like to build are a bit shorter and not the same shape. I have never built before and I can't find any zoning or ordinance things that would prevent this, but it feels like if I went and planned to just add on a unit or two that are attached (or even just next to) the existing house but that look quite different, this is the something that the city would have a problem with.

I am not really sure how all I would figure out if these fears are legitimate. Anyone have some insight on if they have thoughts here, resources, or a way of reaching a resolution? Info from any city is appreciated, bonus if you have Charlotte NC specific experience here. Also, I'd like to replicate this some other properties I am looking to obtain, so if that changes your answer on how you would handle when in the "buying" stage, would love to hear any insight on that as well! 

1Reply
18 views

2 Replies

Jump to latestLatest
  • Real Estate Consultant · Evergreen, CO · Member since 2018 · 1k+ posts · 726 votes
    3y
    Quote from @Christopher Aranguren:

    Hey yall--Due to some zoning changes in my area, I have the opportunity to build one (or even more) new units on certain property that seems perfect for this sort of thing. That said, there's an existing house that is quite large and simply does not have the same "look" as the unit (or units) that I could build most economically. For example, the units I'd like to build are a bit shorter and not the same shape. I have never built before and I can't find any zoning or ordinance things that would prevent this, but it feels like if I went and planned to just add on a unit or two that are attached (or even just next to) the existing house but that look quite different, this is the something that the city would have a problem with.

    I am not really sure how all I would figure out if these fears are legitimate. Anyone have some insight on if they have thoughts here, resources, or a way of reaching a resolution? Info from any city is appreciated, bonus if you have Charlotte NC specific experience here. Also, I'd like to replicate this some other properties I am looking to obtain, so if that changes your answer on how you would handle when in the "buying" stage, would love to hear any insight on that as well! 


     Do you have it writing from the county? If so then involve law enforcement if necessary. You don't want to touch his mulch but maybe have the sheriff do a civil assist. 

  • Developer · San Antonio · Member since 2016 · 157 posts · 85 votes
    3y

    The zoning may only provide information on min/max square footages, min/max height, yard setbacks, etc.  Besides that, I think you're referring to apperance and possibly building materials.  For this you should reach out to the building department.  Also, some areas have Architectural Review Boards/Committes that dictate the specifics of building materials and appearances.  

Join the conversationCreate a free account to reply, vote on answers and follow this thread.