Own an Underused Lot on the Peninsula? Five Questions to Ask First

Many Peninsula property owners hold an older building, a deep lot, or land they've never quite known what to do with. Before deciding to sell, hold or build, it helps to work through a few questions.

1. What does current zoning allow?

Recent California housing laws have expanded what can be built on many residential and small commercial lots. What was off-limits a few years ago may now be possible. Start with your city's planning department or a professional who works in your market.

2. Can existing units stay?

Keeping existing structures can preserve income during the project and lower overall cost.

3. What are the site constraints?

Access, utilities, slope, trees and coastal or flood rules can all shape what a site can support.

4. What do you want: cash, income or legacy?

An outright sale, a joint venture and a ground lease each fit different goals and timelines.

5. Who carries the entitlement risk?

Entitlement is often the longest and least predictable phase. Make sure you know who funds and manages it.

Pacific ADM partners with owners on exactly these questions. If you'd like a no-obligation look at your site, email info@pacificadm.com.

This article is general information, not legal or tax advice.