Los Angeles RSO Evictions in Multi Family

[Eric Zunkley]

I am interested in buying a 4 unit Multi Family Property in Los Angeles. I would be purchasing this property with a partner. I own no other units and would be occupying the property. I would like to take possession of two of the units, one in my possession and one in my partners possession. 

I see in the RSO documents that you an evict one of the units for the owner to occupy. What at the rules for evicting two units? Can I evict? Is the cost the standard rates on the RSO documents?

Rent Stabilization Ordinance Documents
Relocation Assistance Payable By Mom & Pop Landlords
Eligible Tenant - $7,350
Qualified Tenant - $14,750

thanks!

[Francis A.]

@Eric Zunkley @Josh Prince is right. Demanding vacant units may not have much traction but there might be simple work arounds and/or solutions. 

From what I've seen so far and have been told by my realtor who owns over five multi units himself, multi units are generally harder to move than SFRs so…. at least - ASK - your seller if she/he is willing to look into vacating that unit in question. 

Two weeks ago, I made in inquiry into a 4 plex building (1/1 x 4) just south of downtown Los Angeles that is fully occupied. The seller was definitely open to delivering the building with at least one unit for me to occupy and possibly two units vacant so asking won't hurt. 

Asking the seller to vacate unit has to be taken on a case by case basis.

I agree that you should also attempt to turn the illegal unit on the property into a negotiation advantage for you.

I too dealt with illegal unit issue (accessory dwelling unit) when I first started hunting for multi units to buy. Bear in mind I was looking to do the reverse of what you're doing. I wanted to see if I could legalize the units. It was too much work but nevertheless, see if you can get some insight. 

Check out this site.   http://buildingpermitslosangeles.com

Email JOHN who runs it with what you're looking to do. He can offer valuable insight. He's super busy so if you haven't heard from him in 24 hours after you send your email, PM me and I can email his assistant to help you.

Here is another one. She works with building to navigate the building permits maze and is is also an architect. I'm sure a phone call won't hurt with regards to the recourse you need to take.

Jamilah A Haygood Architect |  Tel: 310.801.0330 | www.buildingpermitexpeditor.com

One more thing. If the 4 plex you're attempting to buy has the tenants on month to month (you should definitely know that information), don't forget that you can solve this problem when you notify them that you'll be signing them up to new leases with new stipulations and regulations (IE: Newly non smoking allowed units, Each adult over 18 needs to sign a lease in order to live in the units, No parties after 9pm [which can be huge in Los Angeles] etc etc).

Good luck!