Real Estate Zoning Basics

by Vipul Pawani 05/09/2021

Image by Arek Socha from Pixabay

The regulations of real estate zoning have the potential to make or break a property, but not everyone is aware of these laws until they're confronted with the day-to-day realities of them. We'll look at the basics of zoning, and what investors and homeowners should keep in mind before making plans. 

There Are Few Absolutes 

When it comes to real estate zoning, there are very few assumptions you can make. Some neighborhoods give property owners near-total freedom to do whatever they like. Outside of breaking federal laws, owners are free to add, build and destroy at will. In other neighborhoods, there may be laws that govern practically any change you would ever want to make.

You may need to apply for any number of permits before you can be approved to improve your own property. If you live in an HOA, the regulations will become even more stringent, impacting everything from the color of your home to the length of your grass blades. 

Professionals May Have to Get Involved

Zoning laws may prevent owners from doing their own repairs, instead requiring them to contact a pre-approved contractor to complete the job. Or they may allow you to complete the job, only on the condition that you schedule an inspector to certify that the safety of the property. These laws are put in place because one owner's plumbing fiasco can quickly spread to a neighbor's yard, and one electrical miswiring can extinguish the power on the whole block. The good news is that even the most stringent neighborhoods will typically allow property owners to do their own prep work before professionals arrive. 

Zoning Laws Change 

Zoning laws are not static, which can make them confusing to adhere to. There's plenty of unpermitted work all over the nation, and it can cause a lot of headaches for owners if they're challenged to prove when and how work was completed. Because of this, you're encouraged to do a little research before making changes to the property. In addition, keep track of all receipts and documents that show the dates of the changes. And if you're planning to buy a home, consider how future laws might impact the property. For example, if your land comes under environmental protection status, it may severely impact its value and functionality. 

The zoning laws aren't there to impede property owners (although it may feel that way at times). These regulations were created to keep everyone in the area protected from serious property fiascos. Knowing the rules before you buy and following them after is a good way to keep yourself out of trouble. 

About the Author
Author

Vipul Pawani

Vipul (Veep) M. Pawani, to his clients and friends, is an optimistic and upbeat agent who is assertive and exceptionally motivated to deliver on his clients’ goals. Exclusively serving Woodridge, Prince William County and, Fairfax County, Veep has experience in sales and marketing, which benefits his clients greatly. Currently partnering in a family business of hotel development, Veep draws upon his multifaceted corporate and professional skills when working with real estate. An area resident for 25 years, he credits the friendly people and the family atmosphere as a few reasons why it’s a great place to call home. He is active in his community and is a member of the National Association of REALTORS® The combination of Veep’s honest approach, commitment to customer satisfaction and his knack for business confirm the decisive edge. Professional and experienced, Veep Pawani is here to offer you nothing but top quality service, dedication and success in all of your real estate needs. My website has a ton of resources that can help you search for your new home. Feel free to use my website, free of charge and with no strings attached. If you need representation or just have any questions at all, I’m always here to help. Please call me today at 703-980-0249