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Are there laws against a person buying a retail property and living on it himself (as if it were residential)?

I'm considering purchasing an existing auto-shop or warehouse and adding small living quarters inside. I would not be using the building for "retail" or "commercial" purposes, despite the zoning. Certainly I couldn't rent it out to tenants, or re-sell it as residential, but do laws exist to prevent me from living in it myself in the meantime?
In Buying Property - Asked by Nathan S. - Oct 6, 2008
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Answer(s)

Michael R.
Developer
San Jose, CA

Yes, each city will have zoning laws that define a properties use - check with your city's zoning office. If you violate the terms of the zoning, you are in violation of the law. You'll only run into trouble if code enforcement finds out, such as if a neighbor turns you in.....

Oct 6, 2008
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Gregory G.
Broker/Agent
San Francisco, CA

Yes, zoning
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Gregory Garver - Commercial Real Estate Broker
Broker License# 01716531
(415)968-6065
greg@nnnbrokersusa.com
http://www.gregorygarver.com

Web Reference: http://www.gregorygarver.com
Jun 12, 2011
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