Cleveland’s attempts to curb predatory mortgage lending through local ordinances infringes on powers reserved for the state, the Ohio Supreme Court has ruled in a decision that could discourage other cities from attempting similar measures.

In a 5-2 decision this month, Ohio’s highest court invalidated three Cleveland city ordinances aimed at curbing predatory lending, saying they conflict with state laws and are unconstitutional. Lenders are seeking a similar decision from the state Supreme Court in a challenge of a similar ordinance in Toledo.

The Investor: Dr. Roddy Tempest, 56, is an environmental scientist in Chapel Hill, N.C. He has invested in real estate since he was a student in the 1970s.  He typically purchases buildings where he can occupy one unit and rent out the others. He currently maintains four investment properties, including this one.

The property: The house is a Colonial Revival-style home in Durham, N.C. The property is listed on the National Register of Historic Places because it was formerly the home of Richard E. Dillard, an early 20^th century businessman and architect. Located in Duke Park, a neighborhood near Duke University, the 4,071-square-foot home is set on a 0.45-acre corner lot. The property contains five units: Three one-bedroom, one-bathroom apartments; one one-bedroom unit with two bathrooms; and a small efficiency with a half bath and kitchenette. The apartments all include balconies.