ADU Cost Calculator
ADU costs can add up fast, but our calculator breaks down every detail so you can plan ahead and budget smarter.
GARAGE CONVERSION ADU
Transform your garage into a vibrant living space with Better Place Design & Build. Our end-to-end ADU garage conversion service ensures that your underutilized square footage is turned into an extraordinary living area.
ADU GARAGE CONVERSIONS
Our Promise To You
Homeowners rate us as the top garage conversion builders in San Diego, reflected in over 300 five-star reviews. Our commitment to excellence is evident in every project we undertake.
With 20 years of building experience, we've mastered garage conversions, from local regulations to meticulous inspections. Relax as our team expertly transforms your garage.
We provide the best prices for high-quality garage conversions. Our in-house team uses premium finishes to create stunning garage conversions your neighbors will envy.
Our one-stop-shop approach ensures a smooth garage conversion. From concept to completion, we specialize in converting garages into functional and stylish spaces that seamlessly integrate with your home.
Feasibility
Design & Plan
Permit
Build
Custom Conversions
For homeowners looking to go from garage conversion to ADU, we handle everything on your behalf while sharing in your vision.
OUR PHILOSOPHY
Why convert your garage?
Enhance your home’s potential
For an ADU garage conversion San Diego homeowners trust, our team at Better Place Design & Build makes every square foot count.Balance form and function
Through a partial conversion or an addition, we give you the option to do more with your space while preserving the option to park.Elevate your property value
With year-round good weather, San Diego is the ideal place to increase your property value with an ADU garage conversion.OUR ADVANTAGE
Streamlining your garage conversion,
step by step
Here are just a few of the reasons why homeowners choose us as the best garage conversion ADU contractor in San Diego.
TRANSPARENT ESTIMATES
We stand by our word, offering predictable fixed project costs with value you can depend on. That’s because we believe in transparency from start to finish.
ADU costs can add up fast, but our calculator breaks down every detail so you can plan ahead and budget smarter.
Building an ADU is easier when you know what to expect. Our guide covers every step, from permits to final finishes, keeping your project on track.
Renting your ADU the right way means more income with fewer headaches. Learn how to prepare, attract tenants, and stay compliant with local rules.
Find out just how budget-friendly your garage conversion could be.
1,739%
Real Estate
Avg. 6-8%
Stocks
Avg. 5-7%
Savings Account
Avg. 2-4%
Our 100% financing options make partial and even full garage conversions possible for a wide range of financial situations. As a result, you can begin enjoying your new living space without fronting the full cost. Here’s how our financing works.
1
Within minutes, you can complete our simple financing application.
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Homeowners who pre-qualify can speed up the entire process.
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We quickly review your information while you sit back, relax, and wait.
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Once you're approved, we can take the first steps toward your garage conversion.
Clear, concise answers to your important garage conversion questions.
Absolutely! Better Place Design & Build offers fully customizable garage conversion designs tailored to your preferences and lifestyle. Whether you envision a cozy studio, a spacious apartment, or a functional guest suite, our team will work with you to bring your vision to life and create a vibrant living space that reflects your unique style and personality.
At Better Place Design & Build, we provide comprehensive ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) garage conversion services. Our end-to-end approach covers every aspect of the transformation process, from the initial concept and design phase to the final construction and finishing touches.
Converting a garage into an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) can be a valuable investment, depending on costs, potential rental income, and property value impact. Benefits include increased property value, steady rental income, and versatile use for housing, office space, or rentals. Challenges involve ensuring structural integrity, meeting local building codes, losing storage and parking space, and managing potential budget overruns. With careful consideration of these factors and professional consultation, a garage conversion can provide significant financial benefits and flexibility.
Converting a garage into a bedroom, apartment, or living space involves the following steps:
The cost of a garage conversion varies based on size and key influencing factors:
Size (sq ft) | Average All-In Price* | Key Influencing Factors |
---|---|---|
300 | $120,000 - $175,000 | Fixed costs such as design permits; high-quality, multifunctional solutions needed for smaller space |
500 | $180,000 - $250,000 | Economies of scale reduce per sq ft cost; choice of finishes and complexity of design play roles |
800 | $250,000 - $350,000 | Larger footprint allows standard construction methods; potentially lower costs for additional square footage |
1000 | $330,000 - $465,000 | Costs vary based on location, materials, and labor; similar to a small home |
1200 | $415,000 - $580,000 | Maximum potential for design complexity and high-quality finishes, impacting total cost |
Converting a garage into an ADU generally adds significant value to a house by increasing property value and generating rental income. The value increase can be up to 35%, depending on the size and type of ADU, build quality, and local housing market conditions. Detached ADUs typically add more value than attached or interior conversions. High-quality materials and unique features further enhance value. Rental income from an ADU can offset conversion costs, potentially yielding substantial financial returns over time. However, conversion costs range from $80,000 to $250,000, including permits and compliance with local regulations. Despite these costs, the long-term financial benefits often justify the investment.
Converting a garage into an ADU typically takes 8 to 12 months, broken down into the following phases:
Yes, you can convert a garage into a living space. To do this cost-effectively, start by cleaning and sealing the floor, using high-quality paint or epoxy coating, or installing interlocking floor tiles. For the walls, consider painting, installing drywall, or waterproofing if needed. Insulate and finish the ceiling with drywall or wood panels. Use portable heating and cooling units or mini-split systems for climate control. Add windows for natural light and ventilation, and cover the garage door with a curtain if it's no longer used. For utilities, minimize costs by using existing lines, and perform DIY tasks where possible, leaving specialized work to professionals. Obtain necessary permits, use budget-friendly materials, and reuse existing items to keep costs low.
Converting half of a garage into a room involves several steps: determine the purpose of the new room, check local zoning laws and obtain necessary permits, establish a budget, and design the layout by dividing the garage space with an insulated wall. Ensure proper access, adequate windows, and ventilation. During construction, frame the new wall, insulate, install flooring, windows, and doors, and complete interior finishes such as drywall, painting, electrical wiring, plumbing, and HVAC installation. Finally, comply with building codes, address parking requirements, and furnish the new room according to its intended use.
The cost of obtaining a permit for a garage conversion in San Diego ranges from $6,000 to $12,000, depending on the project's complexity. This includes building permits ($3,000 to $4,000), additional permits for electrical ($200 to $2,000) and plumbing ($100 to $500), city fees ($3,000 to $5,000), and design and engineering fees (approximately $8,000). Miscellaneous expenses should also be considered, making up around 5-10% of the budget.