There is constant demand for rental housing in the greater Grand Rapids area. With numerous colleges and major employers, the need for rental housing is relatively high throughout Kent County.
Some people purchase single-family homes and rent them to families or groups of students. For those in larger homes, such as the sprawling historical homes in Heritage Hill and South Hill, renovating a single-family home to convert it into a duplex or multi-unit property can be a way to generate revenue while retaining a place to live.
Can owners modify existing homes in the Grand Rapids area to convert them into rental properties?
Rules restrict property conversions
Grand Rapids has land use and zoning rules in place that limit the ability to convert an existing property into a multi-unit home. It is sometimes possible to turn one home into multiple separate living units, but owners must ensure that the zoning for the property or local land use rules allow for the conversion of a single-family home into a multi-unit rental.
In some cases, seeking a zoning variance or change may be necessary for those hoping to turn one home into multiple rental homes. Owners typically also need to secure building permits during construction and register their properties with the City of Grand Rapids if the home is within city limits.
Reviewing applicable ordinances and local zoning rules with a skilled legal team before buying a property for rental purposes or beginning any instructions can prevent people from wasting money and ending up in a legally precarious situation. An attorney can help people research individual properties and navigate the necessary process to lawfully operate a rental home in West Michigan.