Beautiful interior of an ADU

Daniel Zakheim

Get to know Daniel

Better Place Design Build

Daniel Zakheim, military veteran and co-owner of Better Place Design & Build, partners with his brothers to deliver custom ADUs with standout design and seamless integration.

Daniel’s expertise in design and commitment to high-ROI projects makes him a trusted partner for San Diego homeowners looking to enhance their property’s value.

Better Place Design & Build Headshot - Daniel
Daniel Zakheim

COO | Design Expert

Core values

Daniel’s design expertise allows him to create ADUs that blend perfectly with each client’s home, ensuring cohesive style and functionality.

Daniel’s passion is helping clients create ADUs that serve as valuable, long-term investments, enhancing both their property’s potential and appeal.

Working closely with his brothers, Daniel brings a family-centered focus to Better Place Design & Build, treating clients like their part of the family.

As a military veteran, Daniel brings a sense of discipline and reliability to his work, ensuring projects are completed with precision and dedication.

Daniel is committed to making ADUs a mainstream option in San Diego, providing clients with innovative solutions that are as functional as they are practical.

My top posts

Check out my insights

Should You Build Your ADU Yourself or Hire a Contractor in San Diego, California showing an ADU under construction from framing to completion

Should You Build Your ADU Yourself or Hire a Contractor in San Diego, California?

Building your own ADU in San Diego can save on labor and contractor markup, but it’s essentially managing a small-house build with permits, trades, and inspections—so hiring an experienced contractor (or using a hybrid approach) often reduces delays, risk, and costly mistakes.

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Partially framed walls of an ADU under construction with natural light.

ADU Tax Credit in California: What Homeowners Actually Qualify For

While California doesn’t offer direct tax credits for constructing an ADU, homeowners can benefit from significant deductions related to rentals, home offices, and energy-efficient upgrades—potentially saving thousands.

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What to Consider When Downsizing to ADU Living backyard with patio space beside a white ADU

Downsizing to an ADU: Benefits, Costs, and Key Considerations

Downsizing to an ADU means moving into an Accessory Dwelling Unit—a smaller, self-contained home on your property—while renting out or repurposing your main house.

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Are ADUs a good alternative to nursing homes for California homeowners, showing a California neighborhood where ADUs support aging in place within existing communities.

Are ADUs a good alternative to nursing homes for California homeowners?

ADUs offer California homeowners a practical alternative to nursing homes by allowing aging parents to live independently on the same property, supporting aging in place while turning ongoing care costs into a long-term home investment.

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Modern casita kitchen design featuring essential appliances and compact layout.

What Is a Casita? Definition, Uses, and How It’s Different From an ADU

Casitas are stylish, small ADUs under 800 sq. ft., perfect for guests, rentals, or in-law suites. Discover the benefits, costs, and designs.

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