ADU Resources & Guides
Everything you need to plan your ADU project. Calculators, guides, financing options, and California regulations - all in one place.
Tools & Guides
ADU Cost Calculator
Get an instant, personalized estimate for your ADU project. Includes cost breakdown, financing options, and rental income projections.
ADU Quiz: Which ADU Is Right for You?
Answer 6 quick questions to discover the best ADU type for your property, budget, and goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
35+ answers about ADU costs, permits, timelines, financing, regulations, and our construction process.
Get a Free Quote
Request a no-obligation quote. We'll evaluate your project, discuss options, and provide a preliminary estimate.
ADU Types Compared
Understand your options and find the best fit for your property and budget.
Detached ADU
Standalone backyard unit with maximum privacy and flexibility. Best for rental income.
- Maximum privacy
- Highest rental value
- Any layout possible
- Best resale value
Attached ADU
Connected to your home, sharing at least one wall. Efficient use of existing utilities.
- Lower cost
- Shared utilities
- Easier access
- Less site work
Garage Conversion
Transform your existing garage into a living space. Most affordable and fastest option.
- Lowest cost
- Fastest build
- No setback issues
- Existing structure
Junior ADU (JADU)
Created within your existing home's footprint. Perfect for multi-generational living.
- Most affordable
- No new construction
- Interior access option
- Quickest permits
ADU Financing Options
Multiple ways to fund your ADU project, including grants up to $112,500 for eligible homeowners.
State program reimbursing predevelopment costs (design, permits, soil tests). Currently paused due to funding exhaustion - check for reopening.
Orange County program for low-to-moderate income homeowners. Covers design, permits, and construction costs. One of the best ADU grants available.
Home Equity Line (HELOC)
80-90% of equity
8.5-9.5% APRDraw against your home equity as needed during construction. Flexible, pay only on what you use. Interest may be tax-deductible.
ARV HELOC
Up to 125% current value
8-9% APRAfter-Repair-Value HELOC counts your ADU's future value, letting you borrow more than traditional HELOCs. Great if you have limited current equity.
Construction Loan
Full project cost
7.5-8.5% APRShort-term financing that converts to permanent mortgage after completion. Some lenders count projected rental income to help you qualify.
Cash-Out Refinance
Based on equity
6.5-7.5% APRReplace your mortgage with a larger one and use the difference for ADU construction. Often the lowest monthly payment option.
California ADU Laws
Recent legislation has made building ADUs easier than ever. Here are the key laws protecting your right to build.
AB 976 (2025)
NEWPermanently eliminates owner-occupancy requirements. Rent both your home AND ADU.
AB 1033 (2024)
NEWAllows cities to permit ADUs to be sold separately as condominiums.
AB 2533 (2025)
NEWStreamlined legalization for unpermitted ADUs built before January 1, 2020.
SB 1211 (2025)
NEWAllows up to 8 ADUs on multifamily properties with 2+ existing units.
AB 434 (2025)
NEWAll cities must offer pre-approved ADU plans by January 1, 2025.
SB 9 (2021)
Allows lot splits and duplexes on single-family lots in most areas.
AB 68 (2019)
Streamlined ADU approvals, 60-day permit deadline, reduced fees for small ADUs.
Not sure how these laws apply to your property?
Get a Free QuoteHave Plans or Need Plans?
We work with homeowners at every stage - whether you have city-approved blueprints ready to build, or you're starting from scratch.
I Have Approved Plans
Bring us your permitted blueprints. We'll provide a construction-only bid and break ground fast.
I Need Design + Build
We handle everything: design, engineering, permits, city approvals, and construction.
Already have approved plans?
We build from your existing blueprints! Bring us your permitted plans and we'll start construction fast.
Need design AND construction?
We're full-service: design, engineering, permits, and construction - one team, one contact.
How fast can you build?
We're one of the fastest in OC. Garage conversions: 3-4 months. Detached ADUs: 6-9 months total.
What about permits?
We handle everything - design, city submissions, inspections. You just approve and watch it happen.
Serving All of Orange County
Each city has unique ADU regulations. Our local expertise ensures your project meets all requirements.
Ready to Start Your ADU Project?
Whether you have approved plans or need full design-build services, we're here to help. Get a free consultation and property assessment.