WWOOFing gives you a place to stay (for free), food (partially, varies with each farm), local characters to hang out with, and something to do.

Character building, you might say.  

There is some beautiful character in the building.

For the most part, with a private lender, you're checking various areas of their lives to try and ascertain their character, and trustworthiness.

He separates his social life from business, unless it sheds a perceived positive light on his moral character.

Basically acknowledging with the character there are things based on the age of the property that won't change or won't change anytime soon will hopefully get you the right tenants. 

No fancy new restaurants to protest (they change the "character" of da hood, man ;)  As a consequence, our "representative" supervisor has gone bat sh!

Any lender will first look at your credit and character.  

Sorry Joe, Don't know any of those characters.

As with all lots of residential character there will be a requirement for front, side and rear setbacks resulting in a loss of buildable area further reducing the building size (no permanent structure may be constructed in setbacks)  Depending on city zoning ordinances there may a provision of a zero lot line (meaning possible reduction of side yard setbacks)  with zero lot lines it may be possible to build a  20 foot wide structure, however you may be restricted in height and required to provide additional fire protection between your property and the next.