1. Can I build an ADU on my property?
Before you start sketching layouts and picking paint colors for an ADU, check with your city or county department that oversees planning, construction or zoning to make sure you’re allowed to build, what you’re allowed to build, and where.
Rules around ADUs vary widely across the country, and can vary among cities in the same state.
If your home falls under the governance of a homeowners association (HOA), be sure to check the rules there as well.</p>

2. Who can I hire to build an ADU?
If you’re thinking of building an ADU as a DIY project, do a realistic assessment of your skills and how much you’re prepared to take on. While it’s certainly possible to be your own contractor, it requires knowledge, time and coordination.
If you’re the kind of person who loves the challenge and satisfaction of building something from scratch and you’re eager to learn what it takes, you’ve hit the lottery.
Developing land — and this is basically what you’re doing when you construct a new building — requires attention to things you might not anticipate. This includes construction permits, utility connections and scheduling work at the right cadence.
More likely, you can expect to hire professionals to do some or all of the work, including the following:
•Design: An architect and/or engineer to draw up plans. If you’re considering a pre-fab home or a kit, check with your local building department to make sure the home you’re considering meets local building codes. Los Angeles has some standard pre-approved building plans that you can choose from. https://www.ladbs.org/adu/standard-plan-program/approved-standard-plans
• Construction: A General Contractor, like Bella Builders, who can act as conductor for the entire project, or individual contractors who for electrical or plumbing work.
• Site work: Water, power, sewage and grading, if needed.
If you’re hiring professionals, get recommendations from people who can vouch for their work.
Bella Builders CSLB # 913482 is a 36 year Licensed, Bonded and Insured General Contractor.
The California State Licensing Board has further info for consumers at:
https://www.cslb.ca.gov/OnlineServices/CheckLicenseII/CheckLicense.aspx

Bella Builders is a one-stop shops for ADUs. We offer a few pre-builts models to choose from, which could make it less expensive than building a custom ADU. We offer free consultations.
If you opt for a pre-fabricated or manufactured home that can be delivered to your property, check with your city or county building department to make sure it meets local building codes.</p>
3. How much does it cost to build an ADU?
As a general rule, ADUs don’t come cheap. Even without the land costs, the cost of construction — and viable ways of paying for it — are limited.
The cost will depend on the size and type of ADU, and the local wages. For instance, the city of Los Angeles, California — one of the more expensive cities in America — estimates that “a new, custom-built detached ADU may cost as much as $250,000. Retrofitting an existing attached garage or basement may cost approximately $80,000 to $150,000, depending on size, existing plumbing and how you design the space.”
You can save money on the design if you live in a city that offers pre-approved building plans that homeowners can use to build their ADU either for free or for a licensing fee. The plans, which can be customized to a degree, speed up the review process because they already meet the city’s building code and design guidelines.
Leading ADU Builders in Los Angeles, Bella Builders owner Vinny Fazzino, said that fixed costs in new construction, such as excavation and laying a foundation, make even small ADUs expensive. Given the fixed costs, some homeowners choose to build to the maximum size allowed in their jurisdiction since adding additional square footage is relatively inexpensive.
For example, the average cost to develop a detached 400 square foot ADU in Los Angeles in 2020 was about $100,000- $140,000; doubling the size to 800 square feet added only about $175.00 per sq foot or $70,000 to the overall cost, according to Bella Builders
That said, some cities or counties charge “impact fees” for larger buildings, so check with your local building department when considering the size of your dwelling.</p>
4. Can I finance an ADU?
Financing can be the hardest part of the process. That’s because the majority of traditional lenders don’t offer loans to construct ADUs. The few that do generally write loans only for work done by professional contractors, some of those loans tend to carry higher interest rates and require mortgage insurance. Bella Builders has working relationships with independent lenders that can loan for a new ADU.
Many people put together a patchwork of sources to pay for it. Those include refinancing to tap into home equity, selling investments, borrowing from friends and family and putting some of the cost on credit cards.</p>
5. How might I save on the construction cost of an ADU?
Converting an existing space into a separate living unit is likely to cost less than new construction. Keep in mind, however, that things can get pricey if you choose high-end finishes.
Another way to cut costs is to build a dwelling from plans that have been “pre-approved” by your county or city building department. Los Angeles has a list of pre approved plans.
https://www.ladbs.org/adu/standard-plan-program/approved-standard-plans
Buying a pre-built model or kit home also may offer a way to cut costs. Just be sure to factor in all applicable costs, including utility hookups. Some pre-built models only include the structure itself. You’ll want to factor in the cost of finishing the inside and installing electric and plumbing. Check your local Building codes to be sure it can meet requirements.
Using doors, cabinets, flooring and windows salvaged from other construction or demolition projects can also help you save money. Check your local business listings to see if there are salvage businesses nearby.
Whatever you decide, you’ll want to make sure the space is inviting. To get an idea of designs that make small spaces seem bigger, check out Houzz.com/ADU </p>
6. Calculate the Return on Investment (ROI) in your real estate market
In cities with high housing costs, like Los Angeles, rental income can pay for the costs of development in a matter of years. Rental income also can provide a homeowner with future options for downsized living without having to move from their home.
Legally permitted ADUs also add value to a property. While ADUs don’t promise instant riches, they can be a good way to build wealth.
Bella Builders has relationships with Lenders that help specifically with ADU’s. Contact us for more information.
Additional funding information can be found at: https://www.hcd.ca.gov/policy-research/accessorydwellingunits/docs/cc%20adu%20finance%20guide%20for%20homeowners%20v5%203.18.21_ada.pdf