House hacking in Oakland. Regulations about changing 4 units to 3 units, or condo con

[Steven Pennybaker]

Hey BiggerPockets!

I'm a first time real estate investor and interested in househacking a quad in Oakland. I am throwing a couple ideas around in my head and hoping you could guide me!

Is it possible with Oakland regulations to turn a quad into a triplex? I would prefer to live in a 4br 2ba than one of 4 2br 1ba. 

Is it possible to convert a quad into condos? I am considering going into this with my partner who would only be able to pay 1/4th the mortgage. If we could designate one of the four units as being theirs, it could make for an easy split if we were to separate instead of having to sell the property or me having to buy them out. 

Interested in hearing your thoughts. Thanks :)