Non-conforming Lot?
I am looking at a duplex this week that is on a non-conforming lot. It is 50+ years old and the lot is very small. In our city, if the lot is smaller than 6000 sq. feet it is considered non-conforming. Apparently what this means is that if the house were to burn down the city will not issue a permit or allow you to rebuild. You would be stuck with an empty lot that can't be built on. Should I even bother looking at at? Would this mean I would have difficulty reselling? I am looking to rent and hold so appreciation would be nice! It is listed at the same price as other comparable properties in the area - should this lot issue make the property cheaper? Thanks for any ideas.
You didn't indicate the basis of your conclusion on the non-conforming issue. I suggest you look at the current zoning ordinance and map. Zoning ordinances often contain provisions for properties held in single and separate ownership at the time the ordinance was enacted (grandfathering). There would have to be some way for the property to be developed if the duplex were to burn down. Talk with the zoning officer.
Are all the lots in this neighborhood non-conforming by the zoning today? In my area even if a house burns down you can rebuild using the same foundation footprint as the original house. As Nancy said check with zoning officials about grandfathering.
Most cities will let you rebuild. Most fires do not completely destroy the building. If you did have a total loss you could rebuild a house instead of a duplex. You too can not add on any additional footage etc. Not really that big of an objection.
Good LUCK and Thank You
Hope this helps some
Ted Jr