I suspect the person who originally turned it into a fiveplex only applied for permits to make a fourplex and then did the 5th unit fly by night (perhaps at a later date) in order so the property would still be considered residential and allow for better financing possibilities.

Quote from @Alan Asriants: There has been a growing trend recently of individuals looking to house hack single-family homes.

While sophistication of your equity partners (private money lenders) will vary between residential and commercial, the principle of raising private capital is the same.You need to develop your own system which allows a constant stream of PML even when you don't need the funds and/or don't have an active deal under contract.For example; I raise private capital by offering free educational workshops for people with self-directed IRAs.

The real issue is that they didn’t have a plan to monitor usage or set up protections to minimize costs during the eviction process.Ideally, the PM could’ve done things like:Limit access to unnecessary areas to reduce power use.Install smart thermostats to keep heat at a safe minimum.Request a utility cap in court during eviction proceedings (if allowed in your area).Bottom line: It’s less about the utility switch itself and more about proactively managing costs once the tenant overstayed.bro what? 

Smoking is not allowed inside. 

My husband and I are looking to connect with like minded individuals.

Consider different strategies like mid and short term rentals as I believe the Portland area would allow for success in both (although I have heard Portland proper is tough on STRs).Best of luck!

If you are not attached to the duplex, could be a good time to sell to developers who want to convert to individual condo units.

Even if the HOA currently allows rentals, it’s worth attending HOA meetings or reviewing their amendment history.

@Eamon Conheady - was the other lender a company or a private individual?