Commercial zoning would be okay as long as the property is considered LEGAL but non conforming. 

I’ve mentioned it to people at work and some friends who are moving to the city, but my place is either too far for them, or they prefer their own space.

If you are going to build a shelter, maybe set aside some space for another charity to come in and put in a soup kitchen type of facility to feed your homeless population on the site.Just my 2 cents.

The design aspect is fun too—you can get really creative with how you furnish spaces depending on your tenants' preferences.That said, it’s definitely more on the lighthearted and quirky side, so don’t expect hardcore realism.

You need some sort of insurance that covers non-owner occupied properties, whatever it might be called.

Now, with the ADU rules, developers are buying anything close with some extra space so there may only be scraps left that wouldn't pass FHA or would price you out.

In addition to those above-referenced issues related to conversions, the additional unit(s) would require a parking space and enough lot area/gross floor area to meet the requirements in 9-703. 

Do you have a non-recourse loan?

Investment Info:Office Space commercial investment investment.

Investing in a short-term rental property as non-local owners can certainly bring tax advantages, but achieving material participation requires careful planning and documentation.