ADU Cost Guide
Understanding the factors influencing ADU costs is crucial for effective planning and budgeting.
ADU Builders
Through our full-service ADU construction, we turn your ADU aspirations into action while guiding you through a truly stress-free process.
HOME ADU BUILDERS
Our Promise To You
300+ Five-Star Reviews
Our commitment to excellence has earned us over 300 five-star reviews. Homeowners consistently rate us as the top general contractors in San Diego, valuing our dedication from start to finish.
20 Years of Expertise
With two decades of experience, we've honed our skills in ADU construction, mastering everything from local regulations to permits and inspections. Relax and let our team bring your ADU vision to life.
Unmatched Quality at the Best Prices
We provide the best prices and highest quality for custom ADUs. Our in-house designers and interior specialists use luxurious finishes to create ADUs you and your neighbors will envy.
In-House, Stress-Free ADU Service
Our one-stop-shop approach makes ADU construction seamless. Our in-house team takes care of everything from design to build, providing a hassle-free, streamlined experience.
Floor Plans
Our team stands as the best ADU builders in San Diego, specializing in full-service ADU construction that seamlessly turns your aspirations into reality. We prioritize your peace of mind, offering a stress-free process from start to finish. As custom ADU builders, we infuse each project with a unique touch, ensuring that your ADU perfectly complements your property.
OUR PHILOSOPHY
Is an ADU right for you?
Do more with your space
In San Diego, every square foot matters. As a seasoned ADU general contractor, we honor your unique vision with utility at heart.Increase your home’s value
Our ADUs add meaningful value and ROI to your property while offering years of enjoyment before it’s time to sell.Generate rental income
As a local ADU construction company, we offer compliant builds to elevate your income while abiding by San Diego’s regulations.ADU Regulations
As ADU builders San Diego homeowners have trusted for years, we're always up-to-date with the latest ADU regulations to better serve our clients.
Smaller setbacks
Allowing you to do more with your property.Reduced ADU costs
Carrying out cost-effective construction without compromise.Expedited approvals
Speeding up the permit approval timeline for ADUs.Relaxed parking requirements
Alleviating the parking spot requirement for ADUs.Additional ADUs
Supporting both ADUs and Junior ADUs on a single property.Greater build sizes
Making even larger ADUs possible.ADU Benefits
While searching for ADU contractors near me, project costs are always a major consideration. Through our transparent approach, we stay true to the fixed costs we give you.
Understanding the factors influencing ADU costs is crucial for effective planning and budgeting.
Knowing the steps to build an ADU or convert a garage ensures your project fits your needs.
Understanding how to build an ADU or convert a garage ensures effective renting.
Our calculator offers a clear look at what your return on investment will be for your ADU project.
1,739%
Real Estate
Avg. 6-8%
Stocks
Avg. 5-7%
Savings Account
Avg. 2-4%
We proudly extend flexible financing options to the homeowners we serve, breaking down the full cost of an ADU into manageable payments. Here’s how our process works.
1
Online application
Easily apply with our hassle-free online process.
2
Pre-qualify
See if you pre-qualify for an even quicker turnaround.
3
Fast review process
Sit back and relax while we handle the review process.
4
Approval
Receive a notification the moment you’re approved.
Answers to your most common ADU building questions
As leading ADU builders in San Diego, we provide comprehensive services covering every aspect of ADU construction. From initial design consultations to obtaining permits, construction, and finishing touches, we handle every step to ensure a smooth and successful project.
Getting started with ADU construction is easy with Better Place Design & Build. Simply contact us to schedule a consultation, where we'll discuss your needs, preferences, and budget. From there, our team will work closely with you to develop a customized plan that brings your ADU aspirations to life.
Yes, an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) can be a good investment. ADUs offer financial benefits like rental income and increased property value, making properties more attractive to buyers. They also provide tax advantages and are versatile, serving as rental units, guest quarters, or home offices. While initial construction costs and regulatory compliance are considerations, the long-term financial returns and flexibility make ADUs a worthwhile investment.
Adding an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) to your property in San Diego can increase its value by up to 30%, with some cases seeing boosts of 50% or more. The increase depends on the ADU type (detached, attached, or interior), size, quality, and the local housing market. Detached ADUs typically offer the highest value increase due to their independence, while conversions like garages may offer a higher return on investment due to lower construction costs. Local housing demand also significantly influences the added value of an ADU.
Building an ADU in San Diego typically takes 8 to 12 months. The process includes a design phase (1-2 months), a permitting phase (3-4 months), and a construction phase (4-6 months). The exact timeline can vary depending on the type of ADU and specific site conditions.
Building an ADU in San Diego typically costs:
In San Diego, single-family residential lots can have one ADU and one JADU, plus an additional affordable ADU and a bonus market-rate ADU, potentially totaling four ADUs. Multifamily lots can have two detached ADUs, plus conversions of non-livable spaces like storage areas and garages into additional ADUs. Special conditions, such as being in transit priority areas, may allow for even more ADUs. Always check local regulations for specific requirements.
In San Diego, an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) can be up to 1,200 square feet, whether detached or attached. Detached ADUs up to 800 square feet are exempt from lot coverage requirements, and detached ADUs can be built up to 16 feet high or higher, depending on zoning regulations. Attached ADUs can be up to 25 feet high or follow the height limitations of the primary dwelling. Always consult local zoning laws for specific requirements.
An Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is a secondary housing unit on the same lot as a primary residence. ADUs, also known as granny flats, in-law units, or backyard cottages, can be detached, attached, or part of the existing structure like a converted garage or room addition. They are self-contained with their own kitchen, sleeping area, and bathroom. ADUs provide rental income, affordable housing, or living space for family members, and their construction is governed by local zoning laws. Despite the costs, ADUs add property value and offer financial benefits.
Yes, you can build an ADU on your property in San Diego if it meets local regulations. Generally, ADUs are allowed in residential zones with an existing or proposed single-family or multi-family dwelling. You can have one ADU and one Junior ADU (JADU) for single-family homes and more for multi-family properties. ADU floor plans must adhere to size limits, setbacks, and parking regulations, and the property owner is not required to live on-site. Consult the City of San Diego's Development Services Department for detailed requirements and assistance.
Yes, depending on local regulations, an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) can serve as a primary residence. Typically, ADUs are secondary, independent living spaces on the same lot as a primary dwelling. However, in some jurisdictions, an ADU can initially function as the primary residence, especially if built on a vacant lot or converted to the main house later. It's essential to check local zoning laws and regulations to understand your area's specific requirements and opportunities.
To finance an ADU, homeowners can explore several options:
One drawback of an ADU is the significant construction cost. Building an ADU can be expensive, with costs varying based on the type, such as a garage conversion versus a detached unit. Expenses for permits, taxes, utility connections, and construction can quickly add up. Despite potential rental income or increased property value, the initial financial outlay and ongoing maintenance costs are important considerations for homeowners.