This ADU Planner is the result of our work on multiple ADU projects in the Bay Area, California.
Today, backyard cottages are a popular choice in California and across the United States. They may seem like a brand new solution to new property owners. However, many people remember them as granny flats, guest houses or carriage houses. In some cities, like Las Vegas, they are still called accessory structures that can be used as habitable space – with plumbing fixtures.
Do not get sidetracked by fancy ADU builders’ titles —what you need is an experienced general contractor – with a track record – who knows how to build houses.
Building an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) on your property is a wise investment that can unlock numerous homeowner benefits.
One of the most compelling reasons to build an ADU is the significant increase in property value it can provide. Adding an ADU can boost your home’s value by 20-30%, making it an excellent long-term investment. This added value stems from the increased square footage and the potential for rental income, making your property more attractive to future buyers.
An ADU offers a fantastic opportunity to create a steady stream of passive income. You can rent the unit to long-term tenants or use it for mid-term rentals through platforms like Furnished Finder.
This additional income can help offset mortgage payments, cover property taxes, or provide extra cash flow for other expenses or investments.
ADUs can adapt to your changing needs over time. An ADU is perfect for housing aging family members or adult children, allowing for proximity while maintaining privacy and independence. Use your ADU as a comfortable and private guest house for visiting friends and family. Create a dedicated workspace separate from your main living area, ideal for remote work or pursuing creative hobbies.
ADUs contribute positively to your local community by addressing housing shortages in urban areas.
They promote diverse, multigenerational neighborhoods and indirectly support local businesses by increasing population density. You can offer housing to a young teacher, a firefighter or a nurse.
If you use our ADU planner right, you will get a proper feasibility analysis for your property and receive an estimate upfront, with all-in pricing that includes design, permits and construction costs.
The ADU construction process begins with determining the project’s feasibility by assessing your property.
Start with a site plan to consider the property layout and the shape of the future ADU. Site-specific factors of your building lot impact ADU development a lot.
On day one of your project, expert guidance is the most cost-effective way to achieve your ADU dream. Believe us, you do not want to wait 6 months for a panel upgrade with the ADU completely finished but standing without power. We will say it again: you can only save money before applying for the building permit – that is why we pay a LOT of attention to pre-construction activities.
As the saying goes, if you think competence is expensive, try incompetence. Preliminary cost estimates done by a professional familiar with local construction costs are an invaluable resource to guide your decisions.
Your electrical panel and connection to utility pole, size of water meter, diameter of a sewer pipe or size of a septic tank, closest hydrant.
Type of exterior (stucco or siding), window frames (black or white), yard access, heritage trees, fire sprinklers.
Title report, geotechnical report (soils), boundary survey, floor plan of main house, previous building permits.
The number of professionals involved in the ADU project can be overwhelming. We are offering an easier way to turn your extra space into an extra home. We can help you assess the property, draw plans, handle city permitting, assign contractors, supervise construction, handle city inspections and procure appliances, fixtures and finishes.
In the Bay Area, our estimates include design fees, permit fees, finish and fixtures costs – in other words, after a consultation you get an “all-in”bid.
You do not have to do it alone.
Embarking on an ADU project involves several key steps.
Do not get overwhelmed by stories about building permits. California updates building codes every three years, and permit requirements change when ordinances change. We work with multiple local building departments to get your project permitted and save you the hassle.
Do not get sidetracked by fancy ADU builders’ titles —what you need is an experienced general contractor with a track record who knows how to build houses.
The chart below represents a typical ADU project. Schedule a consultation to confirm it works for your project.
Modern ADU designs offer a wide range of options to suit your specific requirements. Choose from various sizes and layouts of accessory dwelling unit floor plans to fit your property and budget. Incorporate energy-efficient features for sustainable living. Select finishes and amenities that complement your primary home’s style and aesthetic appeal.
Diverse ADU designs answer specific needs. Consider the primary use of the ADU. In-law suites will look different from rental units. Window placement to avoid staring into the primary residence may be the only common feature for both.
Study a pre-approved standard plan to familiarize yourself with what to expect. Detailed plans are not an opt-in premium feature. They are the first step to a fast-track permitting process.
You’ll need to work with an architect for a unique architectural design. That is if your budget is north of half a million. You can also engage a designer and a structural engineer to create plans that comply with local regulations. We encourage you to check their experience with your particular city or County.
Or you can work with us.
We have a collection of ADU floor plans in a wide array of styles – a treasure trove to inspire you. You can fast-track the design process by selecting a plan from our curated library.
With a property address input, you can try schematic plans on your property map one by one. Best-designed ADUs efficiently use space and mirror the primary house’s style for the backyard’s cohesive look.
Choose from one of the 500+ pre-designed ADU plans
Type in your address to view unit on the map of your property
Review preliminary estimate of your selected ADU
P.S. This service is complementary, however login is required. These plans are simply suggestions to help you get started with ADU projects, you are free to explore and find alternatives that suit your needs through your own research. The content includes affiliate links for which we may receive compensation.
Once the plans are approved, you can obtain the necessary building permits from your local jurisdiction and hire a licensed contractor to begin construction.
During the construction phase, various stages are completed, including site preparation, foundation work, framing, and the installation of utilities. If you are looking for more details, you can read our article on how to build an ADU.
Inspections will be conducted throughout to ensure compliance with building codes. Once all inspections are completed, you obtain a certificate of occupancy, allowing you to occupy the ADU.
Often, it is not a separate document, but a permit job card complete with signatures for final inspections passed. Note plural: at minimum you will need a sign off from the Fire Department and Building Department. Check your permit to confirm the list of the inspections.
Building an ADU is a savvy financial move. The return on investment can be substantial, often outpacing traditional home improvements. ADUs can help offset rising property taxes and insurance costs through rental income. They provide a hedge against market fluctuations by diversifying your property’s uses.
An ADU can transform your property’s functionality.
Separate Workspace: Use the ADU as a professional office or studio, eliminating commute
times and creating a more productive environment.
Recreational Space: Convert your ADU into a game room, home gym, or entertainment area for
added enjoyment.
Downsizing Option: As you age, you can move into the ADU and rent out the main house,
allowing you to stay in your familiar neighborhood while potentially living mortgage-free.
An ADU is an investment in your property’s future:
By building an ADU on your property, you’re not just adding square feet; you’re creating new possibilities for income, living arrangements, and property value. With the potential for significant returns on investment and the flexibility to adapt to your changing needs, an ADU is a brilliant addition that can benefit you now and for years to come.
Feel free to reach out for expert support.