Convert Co-op Back to Retail?

I have a 350 sq.ft. studio co-op in Soho. It's unusual because of its ground floor location, with large windows and direct access to the sidewalk. Over the past 100 years it's been a bakery, a real estate office, etc. I don't think it was turned into a residential unit until the 80's. My question: If I were to consider selling, would I have to strictly sell it as a residential unit? Or if I were... [more]

I have a 350 sq.ft. studio co-op in Soho. It's unusual because of its ground floor location, with large windows and direct access to the sidewalk. Over the past 100 years it's been a bakery, a real estate office, etc. I don't think it was turned into a residential unit until the 80's. My question: If I were to consider selling, would I have to strictly sell it as a residential unit? Or if I were to keep it, could it be turned back into a retail space, where I would receive rental income and the co-op also receiving a fair share of income? I know my co-op board has been brainstorming of a way to generate income. We have a beautiful old building and want a reserve fund to address any future repairs. I don't think they can afford to buy my unit outright. And I don't want to sell my unit for less than it's worth. Any creative thinkers out there who know what options I would be allowed to consider? [less]