Let's talk about the strategies for House Hacking in the DMV.
Multifamily - Multis (2-4 units) are rare in the DC area.
Maryland - On the Maryland side of the border they will typically be found in Takoma Park. If they are inside the city limits they are subject to rent control. But a property may have a Takoma Park address, but be outside the city limits. The east side of Flower Ave is outside the city limits. There will be a few here and there in other parts of Maryland, but not many.
Washington, D.C. - The neighborhoods we will typically find legal multis are in Dupont Circle, Columbia Heights, Kingman Park, Trinidad, Ivy City, Bloomingdale, Shaw, Petworth, Anacostia, Deanwood.
Virginia - Only about 8 seller per year on average in Arlington and Alexandria.
Accessory Dwelling Units - The laws on ADUs vary greatly by jurisdiction. The one common element, is that they are available to only Owner Occupants. That means you can not rent out the 2 units separately. The owner must occupy one of the units.
Maryland - Montgomery County - Off-street parking required if more than 1 mile from metro. Under 1200 sq feet. Occupancy limit of 2 people. Separate entrance on side or rear of house. All the requirements can be found here.
Washington, D.C. - Only allowed in certain Zoning. 7 foot ceilings on 70% of the ceiling height. Egress from living area. Separate mechanicals . More information can be found here.
Virginia - Fairfax County and the City of Alexandria have both been having recent hearings on loosening and allowing ADUs. Arlington allows them and the information on that can be found here.
Rent By The Room/Roommates - Possibly the most popular strategy and can be implemented everywhere. Rents can range anywhere from $700-1400 per room depending on location. In the city, $1,000 a room, and in the suburbs $900 per room are very common prices people are paying. DC allows 6 unrelated people to live together; Maryland allows 5, and Virginia allows 4.
