House Hacking in Jenison: Legal Ways to Add Income

What if your Jenison home could help cover more of your mortgage each month? If you are exploring ways to add income without running afoul of local rules, you are not alone. With the right plan, you can rent space, add a unit, or buy a small multifamily and stay compliant. This guide walks you through legal options in Jenison, the permits you need, and the taxes and insurance to consider. Let’s dive in.

House hacking options that work in Jenison

Rent a spare room

Bringing on a long-term roommate is often the simplest path. Use a written lease and follow Michigan landlord-tenant rules on deposits, inventories, and notices. Recent updates to state law clarify several landlord obligations, so review the latest Michigan Public Act text for specifics.

Create a basement or in-law apartment

Turning space into a separate unit can increase income, but it triggers zoning review and building permits. Expect requirements for emergency egress from any sleeping room, proper smoke and CO detectors, and potentially a separate entrance. Budget time and funds for permits and inspections before you list.

Build a detached ADU or garage apartment

Some lots may qualify for an accessory apartment, subject to your zoning district. You will need zoning approval and full permits. Confirm setbacks, parking, and occupancy limits before you draw plans.

Buy a 2 to 4 unit and live in one

Purchasing a small multifamily and occupying one unit is a classic house-hack. Conventional programs recently expanded access for owner-occupied 2 to 4 unit purchases, which may lower down payment barriers. You still must meet lender underwriting and local safety codes for each unit.

Consider short-term rentals carefully

Short-term rentals are regulated at the local level in Michigan. Some townships license, cap, or restrict them, and rules can change. Confirm Georgetown Township’s stance and any registration or tax obligations before listing your place.

Start with zoning and permits in Georgetown Township

Before you spend a dollar, confirm that your idea is allowed where you live. Start by contacting the Georgetown Township Planning and Zoning office to verify permitted uses for your address and what approvals are needed. Then speak with Professional Code Inspections, the township’s inspection provider, about the permits, plans, and inspections your project will require.

Key safety notes for conversions and bedrooms:

• Sleeping rooms must meet emergency egress size and window well standards.
• Expect interconnected smoke alarms and CO detectors where required.
• Projects that add plumbing, kitchens, or HVAC will require trade permits and inspections.

Taxes and insurance that impact returns

Understanding the money side helps you avoid surprises and protect your investment.

• Rental income rules: If you rent for 15 days or more in a year, report rental income and deduct eligible expenses for the rental portion. The 14-day rule can exclude short, occasional rentals.
• Insurance: Tell your insurer before you rent. Standard homeowner policies often exclude tenant or STR-related claims. You may need a landlord or host endorsement, and platform coverage is not a substitute.
• Lead disclosure: For homes built before 1978, federal law requires disclosing known lead hazards and giving renters the EPA-HUD pamphlet. Renovations that disturb paint must follow EPA RRP rules.

Your simple Jenison game plan

Follow this quick path to turn your idea into a legal income stream.

1. Pick your strategy: roommate, in-law unit, detached ADU, or owner-occupied 2 to 4 unit.
2. Call township zoning to confirm if your use is allowed and whether a special approval is needed.
3. Talk with the township’s inspection provider about permits, plans, and required inspections.
4. If you add a bedroom, confirm egress and detector requirements.
5. Get quotes from licensed contractors for structural, electrical, plumbing, and egress work.
6. Speak with a local lender about financing and whether projected rent can help you qualify.
7. Update your insurance to the right policy type for long-term tenants or STRs.
8. Use compliant leases and keep clean records of rent days and expenses for taxes.
9. Complete final inspections and obtain any required occupancy sign-off before you list.

Work with a local advisor

If you want a clear, financially sound path to house-hack in Jenison, you deserve guidance that blends local knowledge with smart numbers. Our team pairs West Michigan market insight with bank-level understanding of financing and investment strategy. Reach out to Prichard Properties to talk through your goals and next steps.

FAQs

Do I need a permit to rent my basement in Jenison?

• If you are creating a separate unit or adding a legal bedroom, expect building permits and inspections. Always confirm with Georgetown Township zoning and the township’s inspection provider before you start work.

What safety features are required for a basement bedroom?

• You will need a code-compliant egress window or door, proper smoke and CO detectors, and any electrical, plumbing, or HVAC work inspected and approved.

Can I buy a duplex in Jenison and use rent to qualify?

• Owner-occupied 2 to 4 unit financing is available through conventional programs, and recent changes improved access. Lenders set underwriting standards, so speak with one early.

Is short-term renting allowed in Georgetown Township?

• Michigan lets local governments set STR rules. Check township policy for registration, limits, inspections, and tax requirements before you list.

Will renting part of my home affect my property taxes?

• It can. Principal Residence Exemption treatment is fact-specific. Speak with the local assessor before converting or listing space to rent.