Problem financing duplex that is listed as 2 townhomes by county

[Bernadeau C.]

Hello,

I have a duplex under contract at the moment but I just found out the county has it listed as two townhomes on the appraiser website and my lender just told me that he cannot give me one loan for the property because of how it is listed. 

Does anyone know a lender that will allow one loan for this duplex even though it is technically two townhomes that share a common wall. I am buying it from the same seller and our contract has both of the units on there as one transaction. 

Any thoughts? 

[Kathy Henley]

Look deeper @Bernadeau C. I don't know what an 'appraiser website' is, or where they get their data. It is the county record office that is king. Maybe the property has two parcel numbers? This would mean that it could be owned as separate properties. 
First, go to the county records and find out the details. Make sure that your lender is getting the correct information. You say, 'listed' but you need to know how its legal description in the county records.
In California, two parcel numbers is a plus because of the high value of properties. It is ready for Tenants in Common ownership or to be two condos. Is it a plus in Florida? Most banks would not be afraid of this issue because it does not detract from the value of the property, it increases its potential value (town homes may sell at a higher price, if sold as separate units.) Could you find another lender that is not out of their mind? 

It might take too long to appeal to the county to have the property re-classed as a multi-unit, if it is true that it's currently two parcels. A call to a real estate lawyer would be worthwhile expense. Lawyers know the local methods. Finding another lender may be the faster route. Then, amend your sales contract with new dates, as you may need to push back the financing commitment date and the closing date.  What if you promised the lender that you will not subdivide without their permission, sign a covenant on the deed?