Frequently Asked Questions

While each municipality has different requirements, the general requirements are as follows:
-Property is located within a single family residential zone.
-Property cannot be located within protected or hazardous districts and zones.
-Property must be split roughly 50/50 (no more than 60/40)
-Homeowner must occupy one of the lots as their primary residence for a minimum of 3 years.
-Property cannot currently have a tenant or have had a tenant in the last 3 years.
For more information: https://www.hcd.ca.gov/docs/planning-and-community-development/sb9factsheet.pdf
Pacific Lot Splits will assess the feasibility of a lot split on your property. If we determine your property can be split we will coordinate with our partners (surveyors, civil engineers) as needed, gather all required documentation, and submit your application for you.
The design-permitting process typically takes between 6-12 months depending on the scope of work.
Very little. You shouldnt have to become an expert in SB9. Leave that to us.
Yes, SB 9 contains an owner occupancy requirement, which requires a homeowner to live in one of the units for three years from the time they get approval for a lot split.

You will need whats referred to as a partial release of your mortgage. Each lender has different requirements but generally your mortgage must be at least one year old, and there must be a final LTV (Loan To Value ) of less than 60%.
If these conditions are not met, you can either pay off your mortgage or refinance. Keep in mind that a refinance may result in a higher interest rate.
Under SB9, Proposition 13 protections apply only to the lot you retain. The newly created lot will be reassessed upon sale. Additionally, you might be eligible to request a reduction in property taxes for the lot you keep since its size has been reduced.
Disclaimer: Pacific Lot Splits does not offer tax advice. Please speak with a tax and or land assessment professional.
There are three basic options for financing the development of additional homes on your property.
1. Pay with cash: Finance the construction with cash.
2. Equity Financing: Opt for a cash-out refinance to use your homes equity for the project, though be aware this may result in a higher interest rate.
3. Construction Loan: Consider a construction loan, which can sometimes be converted into a mortgage once the build is finished. Note that these loans typically have higher interest rates due to the risks involved in construction.

Subdivided lots are required to be roughly equal in size, with a maximum ratio of 60/40. The exact size of each lot within these parameters depends on your goals as a homeowner and the constraints of your property. We will discuss all available options with you and help you achieve the best possible layout for the two lots.
Pacific Lot Splits is comprised of professional project managers, architects, and real estate agents. If your interested in building an ADU, remodeling your home, or selling your property we are here to help.
Absolutely, though it does require a fair amount of time, research, and patience. We are happy to advise capable do-it-yourselfers who are interested in saving on professional fees on an hourly basis. Our SB9 Resources section will provide interested homeowners with information on how to manage the subdivision process directly, potentially saving thousands of dollars.