Granny Flats and ADUs

You may want to consider taking advantage of the change in State law which made it easier to add a second house, called an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU), to your residential zoned property.

In case you missed them live, check out our ADU webinars here!

Learn the basics on building an ADU from idea, plans, permits, construction, financing, tax benefits and even appraisal/value information from San Diego's top subject matter experts.

Drafting and Design

Cost - $8,000 and up 

Timeline - 3 to 5 months, from idea to permit approval

Permits

Cost - $5-$12k Depending on jurisdiction

Timeline - 2 to 4 months

contractor working

Construction

Cost - $300-$400/sqft (larger ADUs generally cost less per square foot)

Timeline - 4 to 6 months

Accessory Dwelling Unit Benefits

Often referred to as 'granny flats', an ADU is an accessory dwelling unit that could provide affordable housing options for family members, friends, students, the elderly, in-home health care providers, the disabled, and other.​

These are self-contained, smaller living units on the lot of a single-family home. They can be either attached to the primary house, such as an above-the-garage unit or a basement unit, or, as is more typical an independent cottage or carriage-house. ​

What is the benefit of adding an ADU to your property? Whether you are adding an apartment over the garage, a tiny home in the backyard or basement apartment, an ADU can provide you with additional space for a growing family or rental income. 

Guest Quarters

Provide a clean, comfortable, private space for visiting guests be they friends or family

Passive Income

Generate passive income by renting out the additional living space to a tenant

Vacation Rentals

Generate easy income by renting out your new space short-term to San Diego travelers

Increased Property Value

Gain immediate equity in your home, as you can typically build an accessory unit for a lower cost per square foot than what is typical for San Diego property values

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