A basement may look ready for a tenant. That is not the same as confirming that the space is permitted, registered, insurable and suitable for the use you have in mind.
Do not skip this
Verify the address and the approvals, not the adjective in the listing.
Is the basement apartment actually legal?
Milton describes additional residential units as self-contained residential units in or associated with a primary home. Use the Town’s current ARU guidance to establish what is required for this property, including zoning, permits, applicable code requirements and registration.
An existing layout, a separate entrance or a past rental does not establish that the relevant approvals are complete. Request the records and confirm their meaning with the Town and qualified professionals.
What else needs checking besides the separate entrance?
Ask a qualified inspector or building professional to examine the spaces and identify what needs further investigation. Discuss insurance with your provider and how the property’s use affects your financing with your lender.
If a tenant is already there, your lawyer needs to review the tenancy and your plans. Do not assume that buying the home ends a tenancy or guarantees vacant possession. This page does not determine a tenant’s rights or a landlord’s options.
Can I afford the house without the rent?
Before relying on rental income, understand what your lender will recognize and what evidence is required. Separately consider vacancy, maintenance, utilities, insurance, tax and management responsibilities with your advisors.
Ask yourself whether the purchase is still manageable if rent begins later than expected or required work costs more. A home should not depend on an income assumption that nobody has verified.
Before you decide,
pull these together.
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