Encroachment to city road question

[Dan Holtz]

Hey guys,

Im under contract to buy a property that has an encroachment to a city-owned sidewalk. Its not directly on the sidewalk and in no way bothers anyone (there's some grass and flowers in that area - it kinda happened because the previous investors didn't even realize its not a part of the houses' lot).

the encroachment is pretty small (2') the problem is its the main house that is encroaching so I wont be able to change that unless I demolish the house.

This is a cash deal - problem is I wont be able to sell it to an end buyer with financing, down the road if i choose to. ( financing wont be approved due to survey)

So to my question - can I apply for an easement from the city and would they typically approve that or do I have no chance? 

any advice? never dealt with this before 

not sure if thats the right forum to ask I apologize if it isn't