Property noted as 4 unit, but 5 different apartment units?

[Adam Juodis]

I am looking at a 4-plex, and got some additional information that wasn't on the MLS from the selling agent today. It's a 3BR and (3)2BR 4-plex. The current owners split the 3BR unit into a 2BR and 1BR with separate tenants. Is this even legal? If so, does this have grounds to be classified as a commercial multifamily(5+ units) which could increase my taxes and other payments?

[Chris Mason]

Originally posted by @Adam Juodis:

@Chris Mason Can you explain why this is a good thing for me? Since I can do 30YF mortgage? What would happen if a certain someone would find out that there is a 'makeshift' 5th unit?

I will give you a hint. If it does not have an oven/stove, it is not a kitchen because you cannot cook in it. If it does not have a kitchen, it is not a unit.