Any experience getting property rezoned in Philly?

[Adolphus Fletcher]

I was wondering what the process is to get a lot rezoned from a single-family to a multifamily (triplex preferred) in the Temple University area of Pennsylvania. Someone suggested going for a student housing rezoning permit but I don't want it to take up a huge portion of the time of my contract or cost exorbitant amounts of money.. But if it boosts the value of the property because we acquired these permits I could see it as worth it.  Any insight from wholesalers or investors in this area would be much appreciated.

[Stuart Udis]

@Adolphus Fletcher Why are you asking advice from wholesalers and investors and not an architect or zoning attorney:) Setting that aside, yes I've obtained many variances in Philadelphia. I've also obtained many use change and confirmatory use permits. 

 First, are you sure its a zoning variance you need and not merely a use permit? Variances are only necessary in Philadelphia  when your plans are  not consistent with the allowed use or dimensions. Meanwhile if this is a single family home but is in an RM1 zoning district (as an example) you can usually get a use permit (number of units is based on the lot size). You need to start there.  There are other considerations that may still make it impossible to permit the construction of the building even  if the by-right use permit is obtained and its important to have an architect closely examine how the proposed floor plans will layout to confirm egress &  bedroom windows + localized zoning overlays along with a  number of other factors.

Also, if you are time and cost sensitive, opportunities with zoning elements are not for you. Entitlements can be costly and time consuming but can also be lucrative. And please for goodness sake, do not call upon wholesalers for advice. Most can't give an honest assessment on a properties value and now you're expecting them to advise on land use & zoning?