Understanding the impact of zoning laws in real estate

Leah Kelvin

Active member
To invest in real estate, you must have a good knowledge of zoning laws. These laws determine how land can be used and what can be built on it. Different zones allow for different building types, densities and uses – residential, commercial, industrial or mixed-use areas. The investment potential of properties varies with their zoning status; for instance, commercial or mixed-use zones attract more businesses thus raising rental income and property value over time. Zoning regulations also indicate where development is possible by allowing higher densities or conversions of structures among other things. However restrictions are placed too such as setback requirements or maximum building heights which if violated could lead to fines or legal battles.
 
It's very important to know everything about the property that you are going to invest in. Real estate properties are pretty costly and one has to make sure to understand everything well before you purchase one. If possible hire a good reasonable lawyer to understand the legalities and rules if you struggle to do so. In India, other than commercial and residential zones, we have some more categories. The documents of the property also vary according to the zone. There are type A, type B etc khata( a legal document of land) depending on whether your property falls under municipal corporation of a city or it's still in village province managed by Panchayat ( village governing organisation). The rules and tax laws vary with the type of khata. Similar more complications are there and you need to understand them well.
 
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