• A HMO with C4 planning use specifically relates to smaller HMOs
• The classification of C4 originates from C3 with the added benefit of permitted development.
• Permitted development allows for a change of use from C3, up to a maximum of 6 occupants, without a full planning application as long as there is no Article 4 direction in the area.
• Valued on a “vacant possession” basis by most lenders: the property is valued in its present condition with full benefit of vacant possession. The surveyor uses comparable evidence to support the valuation figure.
• Article 4 is whereby the local authority is looking to restrict the number of HMOs and restrict permitted development in a geographical area
• This may affect the valuation in the sense that if a HMO has the benefit of planning in an area then there is a value in the scarcity of the HMO
• Valuers confirm whether a property sits within an A4D area, and if so, how much proportion of the MV is in essence ‘scarcity value’
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