The conversation covers issues like the impact on property values, tenant rights, and the broader effects on the real estate market. 

But there are certainly some tenants in all markets that prefer smaller properties to big, or bigger properties to small.  

Has anyone here been successful in permitting a conversion?

It's a free market. - You will finally get a tenant. 

@Joseph Kirton How much time do you feel is needed to be successful?

Occasionally I'll see properties coming on the market where the seller has a VA loan with a low interest rate.  

@Jim LynchSome typical minimum tenant screening requirements look like the following, but it depends on your market:-Renter has a gross monthly income of 3x more than the monthly rent-Minimum credit score of 650-Renter must have no prior evictions-No felons (or other notable criminal history)There are a number of different tenant screening softwares out there such as Zillow Rental Manager, TransUnion SmartMove, etc.Be sure to complete an employment verification by contacting the renter's employer and confirm the details they shared with you, landlord verification (if they have a previous landlord), credit check, and background check.

Does anybody invest in his market and if so what is the spring and summer like?

My focus is simple: helping out-of-state investors like you unlock the full potential of the Birmingham market.

Markets like Texas (San Antonio or Dallas) or North Carolina (Charlotte) could offer better cash flow with lower costs.