As you know, we generally don't have such restrictions in Canada so I personally tend to look first at the environmental issues my own backyard before.

Reach out to @Alyssa Holbrook as she has a property she is trying to do it on now.Thanks a lot @Jonathan GreeneI was reading the SLC docs and it seems that the restrictions for owner occupancy only applies to single family homes and duplexes are exempt.

I think he is a great guy and isn't his first rodeo with investor funds.We can do some legal checks if you want that type of search, lawsuits, prior names, etc.

How long does the legal process take, and can we move in and live in the unoccupied floors while the situation is being resolved? 

They can definitely tell you what you need to know legally and licensing wise in NJ/NY as there are some restrictions in certain states and I think NJ is one of them. 

This shouldn't be taken as legal advice.

I would not make this a legal matter, but you will have to decide if you want to commit to living with this landlord.

You may consider terminating the lease depending on how much time remains, your skills, the legal system, and other factors.Based on what you've said, I am concerned there's someone else occupying the home or something else is going on.

A "non-refundable deposit" is legally confusing.If they do request a showing, I send them this email:Hi John,Please read this entire email.How about a viewing on X at X pm?

We took legal action and got a legal judgement against him.