San Diego ADU Builders

As premier ADU builders in San Diego, we offer a Complete Design and Build service covering every phase of ADU construction. Our experienced design team creates customized ADU plans enhanced by immersive 3D renderings, allowing you to visualize your space before construction begins. We streamline the permitting processes and provide expert project management, ensuring a smooth, stress-free experience. Our skilled construction team then brings your vision to life using high-end finishes, delivering a luxurious ADU that exceeds your expectations.

Getting started with your ADU project is easy with Better Place Design & Build. Simply reach out to schedule a consultation, where we'll discuss your goals, preferences, and budget. Our design build experts will then develop a personalized plan, including transparent cost breakdowns and essential zoning details. Proudly serving communities like Scripps Ranch, City Heights, North Park, Rancho Bernardo, Mission Hills, and neighborhoods all across San Diego County, we’re ready to transform your ADU vision into reality.

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.

Constructing an ADU, or backyard home, in San Diego typically takes around 8 to 12 months. This timeline includes approximately 1–2 months for design and structural engineering, 3–4 months for permitting, and 4–6 months for actual construction. Specific factors, such as foundation work, site conditions, and your choice of general contractor or specialized backyard home builders, can influence the exact schedule of your project.

The cost of construction for building an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) in San Diego typically ranges from $300 to $500 per square foot, depending on size, location, and materials used. A standard detached ADU (600–1,200 sq ft) generally costs $250,000–$450,000, inclusive of design, permitting, and finishes. Garage conversions or prefab ADUs are often more affordable, starting around $130,000–$200,000, while larger ADUs can benefit from economies of scale. Custom designs with high-end finishes or challenging site conditions can push budgets higher, exceeding $500,000. Additional costs include permitting fees (usually $9,000–$20,000), expenses related to obtaining a building permit, site preparation, utility connections, and a detailed Feasibility Study. To accurately estimate your project's total investment, it's essential to review tailored ADU plans with an experienced home addition specialist familiar with San Diego's market and regulations.

As of mid-2025, local regulation in San Diego determines ADU limits based on property type and zoning. For single-family homes, you can build one detached ADU and one Junior ADU (JADU), ideal for multigenerational living. Previously available bonus ADUs have been discontinued in single-family zones. On multifamily properties, up to eight detached ADUs are allowed, depending on lot size, with unlimited conversion of existing spaces within the original building permitted. Properties located in a transit priority area may qualify for additional flexibility, particularly for creating affordable ADUs. Before beginning your ADU project, it's crucial to conduct a thorough Feasibility Study and secure proper zoning approvals, especially when planning multiple dwelling units. Working with a firm that offers Complete Design and Build services can simplify this process and ensure compliance with current San Diego ADU guidelines.

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 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 housing option or be used for multigenerational living, such as in-law suites. 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 or granny flats, homeowners have several options aligned with their investment goals. A Construction Loan provides project-specific funding that converts to a regular mortgage once construction is complete. Homeowners may also use home equity loans or HELOCs to leverage existing property equity, or choose cash-out refinancing to access funds as a lump sum. Additionally, California’s ADU Grant Program, such as the CalHFA initiative, offers up to $40,000 to support the development of ADUs, including properties with Multiple Dwelling Units. Exploring these options carefully can ensure your ADU project is a successful long-term investment.

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.