If they are separate, permits would have been pulled and the city will have records of those permits.  

When it comes to housing, the FHA rules apply in addition to those of your state/city.

I am not a lender, I'm an investor that typically buys major city-center multifamily. 

And it's not only homes, it's all the infrastructure a city needs.On the insurance issue, I think this may be the end of national carriers.

Jersey City is hot right now but like I tell my clients the majority of the time I can find them deals that make more sense in Essex County but that depends on the client and what their needs are along with their comfort level. 

One would be amazed at how many cities were platted between 1900 and 1940 in CA then the slow build out started..

Doesn't cause trouble for you/neighbors/city/police.That's pretty much the sum of it.

Every Week I scan the MLS, navigating cities and towns in South Florida that are friendly (and not friendly) toward short term rentals.

Once you know how the land is allowed to be used by City or County zoning, start working to a "highest and best use" mindset where you find out how the deal can be quickly turned into money by the end user.

Not really a growth city in my opinion.