Go to the city and county of your prospective STR and ask for the deed restrictions and/or municipal code, for the specific property.

Quote from @Chris Wilson: @James HamlingNot trolling but just trying to provide some context about why states and other countries like CA have such stringent earth quake codes that keep getting updated.I will never really understand the power of a Cat4 or Cat5 hurricane until I experience one.

If before getting a permit you have to dance around for Code Dept officials/ city gov and crime is thru the roof, investments will definitely be low whether real estate or other, but it should be benefiting the city officials to keep things that way.

If it is unclear as to whether you have met the standards of the Illinois Code, it is recommended you speak with an attorney for an explanation of Landlord/Tenant Law.

I would assume that they were already tenanted with Section 8 renters since most of the time properties that pass municipal code requirements don't necessarily meet requirements for Section 8 rentals, meaning there is typically a list of repairs generated by the Section 8 inspector that need to be addressed even if the home previously passed a city inspection.  

Your main concern should be whether these bedrooms and bathrooms on the lower level are legal and have the proper egress require for fire code and livability.

I don't see how they relate to wanting to educate myself or asking for reading recommendations. .I was responding to your comment: "if I get involved in any sub to deals"Education is always great, and subject to is legal as long as it's done legally.Here is how it is set up if you do it wronglySince law is is difficult for some people, let me be more clearThere are various codes that can be violated when buying properties (the definitions are easy to find with a quick search)Equity skimmingEquity strippingForeclosure RescueMortgage FraudShort SellingFalse StatementsWire FraudBank Fraud and so onhere's a sample12 U.S.

I target pre-existing, non-conforming lots that town assessors have deemed unbuildable either through a land use code or a very low tax assessment.  

The Cape Coral Code Compliance officer showed the roofer the various emails to BTC, which left the roofer very unhappy as he then knew he had been misled and made him liable for a fine for illegally performing work while a red stop work order was in place.BTC appears to be continuing to cause damage to customers and other contractors. 

It's important to understand the zoning/code requirements and obtain all necessary permitting if you intend on operating your real estate as STR anywhere in the country.