The cost to build a 900 sq ft, 2-bedroom, 2-bath accessory dwelling unit (ADU) in San Diego typically ranges from $315,000 to $540,000. Final pricing depends on your property's unique conditions, utility connections, chosen finishes, and custom design elements. This investment provides valuable additional living space suitable for multigenerational use, rental income, or long-term flexibility. At Better Place Design & Build, we offer transparent, all-inclusive pricing and personalized financing options to simplify your ADU project.

In San Diego County, detached ADUs are permitted up to 1,200 sq ft in most residential zones. A 900 sq ft ADU requires minimum 4-foot side and rear setbacks, with no parking requirement if near public transit. Detached ADUs on single-family lots can be up to 24 ft tall, while multifamily lots have a height limit of 16 ft. Owner-occupancy is not required through December 31, 2024 (except JADUs, which always require it). Better Place manages your permitting process, ensuring compliance with all local zoning and regulatory standards.

Absolutely. A two-bedroom ADU with separated bedrooms and full baths offers ideal privacy and shared spaces—perfect for long-term tenants (30+ days). Its layout provides comfortable living, whether used as a cozy guest house, rental unit, or primary residence. With a thoughtfully designed 900 sq ft ADU, many San Diego homeowners earn over $4,000 monthly in rental income. It's an effective way to generate steady cash flow and adaptable living space on your property.

Yes, a 900 sq ft accessory dwelling unit with a split-bedroom layout is an excellent choice for multigenerational living. The design includes a primary bedroom and an additional bedroom on opposite sides of the floor plan, ensuring privacy and independence for family members. Each bedroom is paired with its own bathroom, while the central spacious living area brings everyone together comfortably. This smart use of square footage allows for both togetherness and autonomy—making it ideal for , adult children, or extended family who want to stay close without sacrificing personal space.

Yes, adding a 900 sq ft 1-2 bedroom ADU is a perfect solution for increasing the value of most residential properties. Thoughtful floor plan designs—like those with two bedrooms and two bathrooms—add functional, livable space that appeals to a wide range of future buyers or renters. In San Diego’s competitive market, a well-built accessory dwelling unit not only offers immediate utility but also enhances your future home valuation by adding versatility, rental potential, and curb appeal.

The timeline to complete a two-bedroom ADU typically ranges from 8 to 12 months, depending on the complexity of the site and design. Working with an experienced contractor like Better Place ensures that each phase—from initial property analysis and permitting to final construction—is carefully managed. As a top rated ADU contractor specializing in backyard homes and custom two-bedroom ADU plans, we streamline the entire process to avoid unnecessary delays, helping you move into your new space efficiently and stress-free.

Absolutely! As a top-rated ADU contractor, we specialize in creating custom solutions that reflect your unique style, needs, and lot conditions. Whether you envision a sleek entertainer’s kitchen, a functional art studio, or a warm interior with dark oak finishes and ample light, we work with you to personalize every detail. From smart storage solutions to creative yard solutions, our custom ADU design process goes beyond standard offerings. You can choose from a wide range of color options, incorporate features like a curbless shower, and even design a chair buffet dining area in your dining space. It's all about finding the perfect balance of style and function to make your ADU feel like home.

Every ADU requires connections to essential features like water, sewer, electricity, and often gas—especially for full-time living. With our two-bedroom ADU plans, we conduct a detailed utility assessment during the feasibility phase to map out existing connections and identify the most efficient installation path. This proactive approach helps ensure cost savings by minimizing rerouting and avoiding surprises. At Better Place, we include all utility planning in our comprehensive cost, so you’ll know exactly what’s required—and what it will cost—before we begin building.

In most cases, yes—lots with an existing or proposed single-family home or an existing multi-family building are eligible to add an ADU in San Diego County. However, zoning, setbacks, and coverage regulations can vary by location. That’s why we start with a detailed property analysis to assess lot size, access, utilities, and local codes. Our construction experts will guide you through what's possible based on your site conditions and help you choose from our optimized two-bedroom ADU plans. We also handle the entire building permit process, ensuring full compliance and a smooth start to your project.

Yes—there are several financing options available to help you build your ADU, whether you're using pre-made plans or customizing one of our two-bedroom plans. Many homeowners take advantage of HELOCs, renovation loans, or cash-out refinancing to fund their project. At Better Place, we support you from design to completion, and that includes helping you explore the right financing strategy. We work closely with trusted lending partners to connect you with options that align with your goals, budget, and timeline.

Most two-bedroom plans for accessory dwelling units range between 750 and 1,200 square feet, depending on property analysis, lot size, and intended use. A 900 sq ft ADU—like the Sandalwood—is a prime example of a balanced layout that delivers efficient living without compromising comfort. It’s large enough to include two bedrooms, two full bathrooms, a full kitchen, and open-concept living and dining areas, yet compact enough to fit well on most residential lots. This square footage creates an ideal adaptable housing solution for families, renters, or multigenerational living.

In many cases, building an ADU is the more affordable option compared to a full-scale home addition. ADUs offer compact layouts and a cozier living space with all the essentials—kitchen, bathroom, bedrooms—packed into a smaller footprint, making them faster and more cost-efficient to build. Plus, state-level ADU regulations often streamline the permitting process. With greater design flexibility, ADUs can be tailored to your specific needs, whether for rental income, family use, or aging in place. For many homeowners, a well-designed ADU also becomes a compelling downsizing option, delivering lasting value with less financial and structural impact than a traditional addition.

While ADUs are a great way to add a comfortable living space for full-time living, one potential drawback is the initial investment and regulatory complexity. Depending on your design plans, site conditions, and materials, costs can range from $300,000 to $450,000. Navigating zoning, utility hookups, and permits—especially in areas with condo buildings or tight lot configurations—can be challenging without expert guidance. Additionally, in the building industry, not all lots are easily suited for dual units, so a detailed feasibility assessment is essential. Working with a knowledgeable team like Better Place helps you overcome these obstacles with clarity and confidence.

The most cost-effective ADU option is typically a garage conversion or a Junior ADU (JADU), which repurpose existing structures and avoid the need for new foundations or framing. These compact accommodation sizes are ideal for homeowners on a tighter budget, with many conversions completed for under $200,000. While they may not offer the same layout flexibility or ample closet space as detached two-bedroom ADU plans, they’re a smart, budget-friendly way to add value and functionality without major construction. Plus, garage conversions can often be adapted to match existing architectural styles, helping them blend seamlessly with your home’s overall aesthetic.