Tips On Making Sure a Home Is Zoned For Your Needs

As you inspect the local real estate market for the perfect home, make sure you take into consideration you future goals with that property. Do you plan on starting a new business from home? Will your elderly parents be living with you? Don’t make the regrettable mistake of purchasing a home they can’t be modified for a guest unit or can’t be used for a home business. Each city has its own local zoning regulations or codes which regulate what you can and can’t do with your property. While you’re at it, it’s a good idea to find out what options your neighbors are permitted to do with their property.

The first step is to check with the local municipal planning and building department to discover what the zoning use is for the neighborhood you’re interested in. The primary classification is single-family residential, however you also find some neighborhoods zoned for multifamily, transitional, or mixed use such as residential and commercial.

It’s important to consider which classification is right for you. If you’re planning to set up a home business, a mixed commercial and residential area may be to your advantage. However you need to be aware your neighbor may also take advantage of the zoning classification and build a business or apartment building next door if the zoning permits it.

Zoning laws regulate more than just how the property is used. They can dictate minimum square footage of the house, its maximum size, how many stories, and where it can be situated on the land. There are also rules regulating how far your house needs to be set back from the street and how much space your home needs to be away from your neighbor’s. This will definitely influenced any plans you may have for a new deck or room.

You should consult with a local realtor or real estate lawyer if you come across these circumstances:

1) You Need To Operate A Business From Home – If you have an existing home business or plan to start one in the future, make sure you check the zoning restrictions to be certain one is allowed-especially if you’re looking in zones designated as residential. The city has its own set of regulations regarding the operation of a home business. If possible, try locating residents who operate businesses from their home and see how cooperative the city is.

2) You Have Remodeling Plans – If you plan to remodel or add new structures, local zoning laws may severely restrict what you can do to change the property. Some local ordinances may restrict the addition of a second level.

3) You plan to park an RV or boat in your driveway.

4) You’re Purchasing A Historical Home – City zoning laws for these homes tend to be stricter as all renovations must maintain the original style and color of the time era.

5) You want to remove a large tree.

6) You have unusual or special plans.

7) You have plans to raise farm livestock such as horses or goats.

Looking to find the best deal on Pleasanton homes for sale? Come and see what a Pleasanton Realtor can do to help you find your dream home.