Attic remodel permit question

[Karen Rodriguez]

Hi Everyone,

Newbie question...

If I buy a property that has a bonus room addition that was never properly permitted, is it better to just to leave it be or would it be possible to get the space permitted now since I am a new buyer?  I am not worried about safety issues for my future renters since the space has been inspected and construction is good but just thinking if it is even possible to obtain permitting after the fact?  Obviously I don't want to wake a sleeping giant and have someone tell me I have to tear it down and start over.  

Also if I ever go to sell can I still list as five bedroom even if 5th bedroom was not permitted? 

Thanks!

Karen