Single-family lots in Washington have had their value and potential explode in the last few years. Recent legislative changes (SB 5258 and 5559) have transformed the opportunity that comes with owning a suburban lot. The days of a single home being the highest and best use for many parcels are over.
This video with leading land use attorney Terry Wilson provides a crucial breakdown of the Unit Lot Subdivision (ULS) mechanism. It is a powerful tool that makes turning a single lot into a high-density, multi-unit investment. For decades, traditional subdivision was the only way to divide a property, but it was restrictive, requiring each new lot to meet minimum size requirements (e.g., 5,000 sq. ft.)
ULS flips the script by allowing you to build first, then divide:
Develop the Parent Parcel: You submit one building plan for the entire lot, which can now include multiple units (duplex, triplex, quadplex, or cottage housing), regardless of the old minimum lot size.
Create Ownership Lines: The ULS process then sits on top of that building plan, creating individual Unit Lots for ownership purposes only. These "lots" do not need to meet the old minimum lot size or setback rules, allowing you to sell each unit separately with its own tax parcel.
Unit Lot Subdivision vs. Condomization
The Bottom Line for Clients: While ULS may be perceived as more "legitimate" by some buyers because of its municipal review, the condominium route is often the fastest and most efficient way. It quickly turns your finished construction project into sellable, separate units, reducing carrying costs and time to market.
This allows to maximize density and get the highest and best use out of your property. It also creates larger units unlike ADUs providing a more interesting opportunity for many buyers.
Our Take:
The zoning changes in the past few years in WA State are unprecedented on many levels in an effort to dramatically increase the amount of housing availability and assist with the affordability issues that have plagued the State in recent years.
These changes come with pros and cons, but one thing is for certain, the landscape has changed and those that are aware of how to maximize their own property (or others) have an opportunity that we've never seen.
For more information on investing in Snohomish County Real Estate, consider talking to an Everett based Commercial Real Estate Brokerage.
Weitz Commercial
2716 Colby Ave
Everett, WA 98258
Scott@Weitzcommercial.com
Nathan@Weitzcommercial.com
T: (206) 306-4034