Non-permitted duplex in Baltimore City?

[Timothy M.]

Anyone else have experience with a non-permitted duplex? Specifically, found a SFH rowhouse that has been (without permit) converted to a duplex; between the two units, the numbers are quite good (2% per month) but I'm wondering how much of a legal headache this could be. The area is zoned R-6 so from what I have read/heard, it is nearly impossible to have the rowhouse rezoned as a legal duplex.

I have friends in other geographic areas that have non-permitted units (looking at you, Chicago!) and it's never been a problem. If it makes a difference, I wouldn't be putting any debt on the building and just purchasing in cash.  

Thoughts?

[Michael Krupp]

I actually posted something like this previously in Bigger Pockets. I bought an identical houses, in Baltimore city, not rented, set up for 2 units.  I pulled permits, started the rehab, and at the first inspection got a stop order due to the 2 units.  It was not permitted and vacant for a period of time.  It was at one time...two units. I had to go through Zoning and had an experienced person that deals with Zoning handle it all and was not able to get the zoning to do 2 units. It was a while ago, and had something to do with the size of the property and the total size of the lot.  Definitely call Baltimore City zoning office and tell them the address and they can share with you the current situation or viability of getting 2 units.