Zoning in on Zoning
Knowing what you can and can’t do with a piece of property is crucial; it can make or break many deals. I highly suggest you determine this before getting started in any real estate transaction. This can save you a lot of money, time, and energy. I am not kidding about the money part. So what is zoning, and why is it important?
Local governments create zoning ordinances to map out the physical boundaries of different zoning districts, which can occasionally be modified. To determine what your lot is currently zoned as, you will want to go to the municipal building. Zoning and some other ordinances can often be found online. However, do not, I repeat, do not rely solely on that as your only resource. Always go to the primary source to double check your information, especially if it’s a deal you intend to do yourself or invest in.
Now you are probably wondering, why the big fuss over zoning? Well, zoning determines what land uses are permitted in each district or classification. Some examples of classifications may include, but are not limited to residential, mixed residential, commercial, and conservation. Zoning ordinances also lay out all the juicy specifics, like lot size minimums and maximums, setbacks, and height restrictions. Please remember that land use and regulation laws vary from state to state. Therefore, you need to be familiar with the states you work with or at least know where to find the right information when needed.
Like stated earlier, zoning is a very important variable when doing any real estate transaction. Please familiarize yourself with zoning before you end up paying to do it later. Either way, you will have to know it. Now, take this and get out there and apply it.