Even if your agent knows a rare exception, the lender must still comply with Dodd-Frank, so I'm not sure this helps you.

San Francisco does have some units under rent control and a landlord does have to comply with those rules but you don't have to buy a rent controlled property if you think the rules are too onerous.

I revised the post to comply with the posting guidelines. 

You need to read East Point's code thoroughly to understand a few things:1) How East Point defines a "nonconforming use" (since every municipality is a little different), and if it is still possible for you to comply with the law and fall under that definition2) The City's violation and enforcement procedures, so you know what the legal stakes are3) The zoning regulations that currently apply to the property, and the most expedient procedure to solve your problem.

Up near Everett or Lake Stevens is there I think I'm going to find things in my budget that comply with those rules.

Not sure what happened between the both of you, but it may be easier and cheaper just to comply at this point.  

Illegal sublet - $500 fine.On both of the letters, it's said: "Failure to comply with the building's rules will result in referral of this matter to the building's attorney.

Its always important to comply with any local laws and ordinances regarding signage. 

My lease requires that the occupant comply with all zoning and other town ordinances, which would prevent using the house as a commercial building but would not in any way prevent working from home, even 100% of the time.

Google your state laws on handling them and make sure and comply.