Multi-Family Home Buyers

A two family home can offer the perfect opportunity to build equity, provide shelter for your family and generate income all at the same time.

However, two family homes (or any multi-family dwelling) are double trouble when it comes to home repair and maintenance. To make certain the property you are considering is the right investment for you, you must insist on a professional home inspection.

To conduct a complete inspection, the inspector will need access to all areas of the units including attics, garages and crawlspaces. Your real estate professional can help coordinate access to units that may be occupied by tenants.

Never assume the condition of one of the unit (s) is the same as the other. The level of care by tenants can and does vary dramatically. In addition, it's not uncommon for homeowners to update, remodel or repair their unit, but not the rental units.

Accompanying your HouseMaster inspector throughout the inspection of all units will make your inspection report more meaningful, and will allow your inspector to demonstrate how the systems in the home function and discuss repair options in a completely unbiased manner.

Becoming a Landlord

Becoming a landlord should not be something one undertakes without serious consideration and evaluation.

Your units will have to meet local codes for multi-family dwellings. These codes vary from municipality to municipality. Check with your town's building department to find out all about the local codes that must be met prior to the issuance of a certificate of occupancy for the building you are considering.

Things as simple as smoke detector placement and as costly as asbestos, lead-based paint or mold removal must be considered prior to your purchase or your dream investment could turn into the money pit. Your local HouseMaster office is also ready to assist you in obtaining some of the ancillary inspection services you may need.

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