GARAGE CONVERSION ADU

Go from garage to Getaway Hideaway Cottage Asset

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.

Bright and modern garage conversion ADU featuring a cozy living area with a sleek white couch, a spacious kitchen with light wood cabinets, stainless steel appliances, and a dining table, all illuminated by recessed lighting and accented with wooden beams.

ADU GARAGE CONVERSIONS

Our Promise To You

San Diego's family-owned garage conversion experts

five-stars approval icon - 20 years of ADU building expertise

300+ Five-Star Reviews

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.

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20 Years of Building

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.

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Top Quality, Best Prices

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.

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In-House, Streamlined Process

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.

Bright and airy garage conversion ADU featuring a minimalist kitchen with white cabinetry and countertops, a long wooden dining table with red chairs, and large glass doors opening to a serene outdoor space.
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Your entire conversion in one place

  • Feasibility

  • Design & Plan

  • Permit

  • Build

ADU Garage Conversion

Expertise for every conversion goal

Full conversions

Transform your garage into a completely renewed living space that perfectly matches your interior without compromise.

Partial conversions

Add a unique, livable space to your home while maintaining key features such as your garage doors, storage walls, and more.

Addition conversions

Expand your garage to support more than parking alone. Enjoy endless possibilities with the additional square footage.

Scalable conversions

Lean on our experience as your expert garage conversion ADU contractor for one, two, and three-car garages alike.

Custom Conversions

Turning your vision into inspired conversions

For homeowners looking to go from garage conversion to ADU, we handle everything on your behalf while sharing in your vision.

Browse conversions
A 3 bedroom adu floor plan showing a residence layout
Torrey Pine
  • 1192 SQFT
  • 3 Bed
  • 2 Bath
3 bedroom ADU floor plan with 1188 sq ft, featuring three bedrooms, two bathrooms, a kitchen, and a living room, emphasizing a functional and open layout.
Mahogany
  • 1188 SQFT
  • 3 Bed
  • 2 Bath
2D floor plan showcasing a 750 sq ft ADU with 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. Designed for comfortable living, it includes a spacious kitchen and living area.
Teak
  • 748 SQFT
  • 2 Bed
  • 2 Bath
Detailed 2D layout of a 624 sq ft ADU featuring two bedrooms, one bathroom, a kitchen, living room, and a laundry area, part of our ADU floor plans 600 sq ft collection.
Oak
  • 624 SQFT
  • 2 Bed
  • 1 Bath
Detailed 2D floor plan of a 400 sq ft studio ADU featuring a bedroom/living area, kitchen, and bathroom. This compact design maximizes functionality and comfort.
Birch
  • 400 SQFT
  • Studio
  • 1 Bath

Distinct craftsmanship

Transforming conventional garages into thoughtful spaces worth sharing.

We empower you to think differently about your garage. From concept to conversion, we turn these cold and often dimly-lit spaces into somewhere you’ll enjoy spending time. Along the way, you can expect a done-for-you process that's as enjoyable as it is effortless.

Our Conversions

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.
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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.

smaller adu setbacks

Shared visions

Listening carefully to your garage aspirations.
reduce adu costs

Flexible conversions

Offering full and partial conversions alike.
expideted

Trusted quality

Transforming spaces with a quality-first approach.
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Tailored guidance

Balancing your vision with our expertise.
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Expedited permits

Leveraging our local knowledge for faster approvals.
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In-house work

Working exclusively with our hand-selected team.

our reviews

Google Review

“You're not just buying the buildings; you're buying the people behind them. The Better Place Design & Build team set the standard for building our ADU. My advice is to just do it. ”

Tim & Eta

Better Place Design & Build Homeowner
Google Review

“Choosing Better Place Design & Build for our ADU project was a fantastic decision. Their team of ADU contractors in San Diego brought innovation and skill, delivering an impressive final product.”

Patsy C

Better Place Design & Build Homeowner
Yelp Review

“I can see why this business has five stars. If you're looking to build an ADU, I can assure you that you will get someone you can trust.”

Edwin G

Better Place Design & Build Homeowner
Google Review

“After researching various ADU contractors, we chose Better Place Design & Build, and we're so glad we did. They took care of everything, from design to construction, resulting in an impressive ADU that blends seamlessly with our property.”

Sean K

Better Place Design & Build Homeowner
Yelp Review

“Better Place Design & Build is the absolute best choice for a start-to-finish ADU project! If you want a seamless ADU project experience, look no further.”

Valeria A

Better Place Design & Build Homeowner
Google Review

“When I needed an ADU contractor near me, I found Better Place Design & Build. Their team's expertise and dedication made the process smooth and stress-free, and the end result exceeded my expectations.”

Gabby B

Better Place Design & Build Homeowner

TRANSPARENT ESTIMATES

Up-front costs. No surprises.

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.

Cozy and stylish ADU living area with a neutral-toned sofa, modern seating, and a kitchen bar setup in the background. Showcases an efficient, inviting design that maximizes comfort in a small space, ideal for those considering ADU cost-effective living solutions without sacrificing style.

ADU Cost Calculator

ADU costs can add up fast, but our calculator breaks down every detail so you can plan ahead and budget smarter.

Learn More
Construction of a detached ADU in progress, featuring wooden framing and roofing in a residential backyard. Highlights the early stages to build an ADU, emphasizing the craftsmanship and structural planning involved in expanding living spaces.

12 Steps to Building an ADU: Your Comprehensive Guide

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.

Learn More
Bright and inviting bedroom in an ADU, featuring a plush bed with layered pillows and tasteful decor. Ideal for those looking to rent their ADU, this space combines comfort and style, creating an appealing environment for potential tenants.

Rent your ADU

Renting your ADU the right way means more income with fewer headaches. Learn how to prepare, attract tenants, and stay compliant with local rules.

Learn More

Transform your garage with custom fnishes

Choose from a wide selection of finishes and styles tailored to your needs. We'll guide you in unlocking the full potential of your garage conversion.

Calculate your
Return on Investment

Find out just how budget-friendly your garage conversion could be.

$ Maximum value ranges from 1$ to 1000000$
$ Maximum value ranges from 1$ to 1000000$
Total Return on Investment

1,739%

Real Estate

Avg. 6-8%

Stocks

Avg. 5-7%

Savings Account

Avg. 2-4%

Financing your
Garage Conversion

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

Start online

Within minutes, you can complete our simple financing application.

2

See if you pre-qualify

Homeowners who pre-qualify can speed up the entire process.

3

Wait for our review

We quickly review your information while you sit back, relax, and wait.

4

Get approved

Once you're approved, we can take the first steps toward your garage conversion.

Top FAQs on garage conversions answered

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:

  1. Planning and Design
    • Determine the purpose (bedroom, apartment, home office).
    • Secure necessary permits by checking local zoning laws and building codes.
    • Establish a budget for the project.
  2. Hire Professionals
    • Engage an architect or design-build contractor for detailed plans and permit approval.
    • Assess the structural integrity of the garage for necessary upgrades.
  3. Utilities Installation
    • Plan and install electricity, plumbing, and HVAC systems.
  4. Construction
    • Frame new walls and insulate.
    • Install flooring, windows, and doors.
    • Complete interior finishing with drywall, paint, and utilities.
  5. Compliance and Final Touches
    • Ensure all work complies with local building codes and fire safety regulations.
    • Consider alternative storage solutions for the loss of garage space.

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:

  • Design Phase: 1-2 months to plan and finalize the ADU design.
  • Permitting Phase: 3-4 months to obtain necessary permits and ensure compliance with local regulations.
  • Construction Phase: 4-6 months to build and complete the conversion, depending on site conditions and project complexity.

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.