ADU Trends & Insights Archives | Better Place Design & Build You have dream ADU. We make it come true. Mon, 10 Mar 2025 20:52:48 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.1 https://betterplacedesignbuild.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Better-Place-Remodeling-Site-Icon-150x150.png ADU Trends & Insights Archives | Better Place Design & Build 32 32 ADU Manufactured Homes in San Diego: Are They Right for You? https://betterplacedesignbuild.com/blog/adu-manufactured-home-san-diego/ https://betterplacedesignbuild.com/blog/adu-manufactured-home-san-diego/#respond Mon, 10 Mar 2025 20:45:13 +0000 https://betterplacedesignbuild.com/?p=12361 Discover whether a manufactured home is the right choice by exploring costs, regulations, benefits, and potential drawbacks.

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]]> Especially as new laws and regulations make the building of accessory dwelling units easier, many homeowners in San Diego County are considering whether an ADU is possible with their lot and budget. For those concerned with construction budget, manufactured ADUs may be an attractive choice initially when compared with traditional construction, because they can provide additional space for a lower cost. There are other key factors to consider with these manufactured units, though, when it comes to building permits, durability, and ROI.

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]]> https://betterplacedesignbuild.com/blog/adu-manufactured-home-san-diego/feed/ 0 Custom ADU: Your Ultimate Guide https://betterplacedesignbuild.com/blog/custom-adu/ Mon, 03 Feb 2025 19:39:47 +0000 https://betterplacedesignbuild.com/?p=11831 A custom ADU may cost more than manufactured or prefab units, depending on size, type, and finishes, but it offers several benefits.

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]]> Undergoing any construction project can feel daunting, especially a project as big as a custom accessory dwelling unit. Many homeowners find the time, energy, and costs are worth the investment, though. Although a custom ADU can cost anywhere between $150,000 and $450,000 (depending on size, type, and finishes) it offers many benefits, especially when compared to manufactured or prefab units. Plus, a custom ADU gives you greater design freedom and return on investment.

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]]> Can an HOA Prevent an ADU? https://betterplacedesignbuild.com/blog/can-hoa-prevent-adu/ Mon, 03 Feb 2025 18:42:07 +0000 https://betterplacedesignbuild.com/?p=11811 If you’re part of a homeowners association and considering building an accessory dwelling unit on your property, it's key to consider any rules your HOA may have about ADUs.

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]]> If you’re part of a homeowners association and considering building an accessory dwelling unit on your property, it’s key to consider any rules your HOA may have about ADUs, along with your city’s building codes and ordinances. While California law prevents HOAs from banning ADUs outright, it does allow them to place certain restrictions when it comes to appearance and exterior design, placement on the lot, and overall size.

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]]> What is a Casita? https://betterplacedesignbuild.com/blog/what-is-a-casita/ Fri, 31 Jan 2025 16:49:56 +0000 https://betterplacedesignbuild.com/?p=11780 Casitas are stylish, small ADUs under 800 sq. ft., perfect for guests, rentals, or in-law suites. Discover the benefits, costs, and designs.

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]]> A casita, meaning “little house” in Spanish, is a small, detached accessory dwelling unit (ADU) typically found behind a main residence, most commonly in the Southwest, including Southern California, Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas. Usually under 800 square feet, casitas serve as versatile living spaces for in-law suites, rental units, or guest accommodations. Unlike a pool house, which is primarily for recreation, a casita includes a full kitchen and bathroom, making it a fully functional home. While traditionally Spanish-style, casitas can take on any architectural design and are considered ADUs regardless of style.

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]]> Legal Bedroom Requirements in California https://betterplacedesignbuild.com/blog/legal-bedroom-requirements-california/ Fri, 10 Jan 2025 22:04:35 +0000 https://betterplacedesignbuild.com/?p=11046 California has made building ADUs easier to tackle the housing crisis, but specific state and local regulations still apply. Here's what you need to know before starting.

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]]> If you’re adding an accessory dwelling unit to your backyard or turning unused space in your existing home into a junior accessory dwelling unit, know that there are building codes related to minimum requirements for bedrooms. This is especially important if you plan on using the space as a rental unit or granny flat. If your bedroom space doesn’t meet the legal requirements, it won’t pass the permitting process or the final inspection and won’t be able to generate rental income or comfortably house aging parents.

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]]> Prefab ADUs: Pros and Cons https://betterplacedesignbuild.com/blog/prefab-adu/ Wed, 08 Jan 2025 18:31:35 +0000 https://betterplacedesignbuild.com/?p=10991 Explore the pros and cons of prefab ADUs in California, including cost, customization, durability, and ROI, to decide if modular construction suits your needs.

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]]> Prefab ADUs, also known as modular ADUs, are accessory dwelling units constructed off-site and assembled on-site, offering a distinct alternative to traditional ground-up or site-built ADUs. Prefab construction can be a cost-effective option due to reduced design and labor expenses, making it an appealing choice for budget-conscious homeowners. However, if your goal is to maximize rental income or significantly increase your property’s overall value, a customized site-built ADU may offer greater long-term potential and financial benefits.

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]]> California ADU Law: The Ultimate Guide https://betterplacedesignbuild.com/blog/california-adu-law-ultimate-guide/ Wed, 08 Jan 2025 16:30:29 +0000 https://betterplacedesignbuild.com/?p=10989 California has streamlined ADU construction to address the housing crisis, but development standards still apply. Check local regulations before starting your project.

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]]> In recent years, California has enacted laws to simplify the construction of ADUs, recognizing them as a valuable solution for increasing affordable housing and addressing the state’s housing crisis. While these changes make ADUs easier to build, specific development standards must still be met. This guide highlights key state laws regarding ADUs, but keep in mind that regulations can vary by municipality, so it’s essential to consult your local building department before starting the permitting process.

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]]> Spanish Style ADUs https://betterplacedesignbuild.com/blog/spanish-style-adu/ Fri, 20 Dec 2024 17:25:55 +0000 https://betterplacedesignbuild.com/?p=10944 Explore the timeless elegance of Spanish-style ADUs with iconic features like stucco walls, red tile roofs, and stunning architectural details.

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]]> Given the popularity of Spanish-style homes throughout the San Diego area, it only makes sense that homeowners looking to add an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) to their property would pursue a Spanish-style ADU. This custom design is not only a smart choice for homeowners looking to match the style of a home’s original Spanish-style design or adhere to HOA rules, but it also adds a timeless elegance to the property that can ultimately increase its desirability in the rental market, adding to your potential rental income.

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]]> What Qualifies as an ADU? https://betterplacedesignbuild.com/blog/what-qualifies-as-an-adu/ Thu, 12 Dec 2024 17:24:54 +0000 https://betterplacedesignbuild.com/?p=10877 ADUs are reshaping the California housing market, providing homeowners with cost-effective, independent living spaces to meet diverse needs.

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]]> ADUs, or Accessory Dwelling Units, are redefining the California housing market by giving homeowners a flexible, cost-effective way to expand their living space and adapt to changing needs. To qualify as an ADU as a living space, the unit must be independent, featuring its own separate entrance, kitchen, and bathroom. Structures like pool houses or spaces sharing facilities with the main home do not meet these requirements.

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]]> The Ultimate Guide to ADU Financing in San Diego https://betterplacedesignbuild.com/blog/adu-financing-san-diego/ Thu, 05 Dec 2024 19:02:13 +0000 https://betterplacedesignbuild.com/?p=10777 ADUs are growing popular in San Diego, offering housing for family or rental income, but demand substantial upfront investment.

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]]> Accessory dwelling units (ADUs) are increasingly popular in San Diego County, offering homeowners a way to house extended family or generate income to offset primary residence costs. While they provide financial benefits, ADUs require significant upfront investment. Costs depend on factors like lot condition, ADU size, and whether you’re building new or converting an existing structure (like a garage). Use our free cost calculator to estimate expenses and explore financing options based on your financial situation, age, timeline, and home equity.

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