Who has successfully built an ADU?

[Eddie Torres]

Looking to get feedback from anyone who has successfully built an ADU on their primary residence. I realize when building an ADU and renting it out, you lose a level of privacy but it's a sacrifice for rental income. But is it worth it? Does anyone have any regrets or wish they could go back and do something different?

I am looking to build an ADU on my own lot. I just was awarded a $40k grant from CalHFA to go towards and ADU so I'm highly motivated at this point. Just looking to get feedback on do's and don't. Thanks in advance.

[Keeley Painter]

I did it as well and would def do again. Converted my 425 sqft workshop at the back of my detached garage to a studio apartment for $60K. Pulled some of the money out when I refi'ed last September at 2.75% rate. My rental brings in $1800/month (utilities included as they aren't separate - yet). My mortgage (PITI) is $1592/month. I'm basically living for free while continuing to build equity! Loss of privacy is minimal. I put up a fence section in front of the ADU front door and window that looks out into my yard which helped. Originally was renting to travelling nurses then tried AirBnb for one holiday weekend, but recently signed a 1 year lease which is way less work and hassle.