All Forum Posts by: Brian Larson

@Chen Zhou - thanks for sharing. I am still in the design process for my detached ADU.

Can you please share some potential pitfalls or lessons learned to watch out for with the permitting or building process?

@Miguel Ochoa - I think is great that you are exploring options to build an ADU. I am currently building an ADU at my personal residence in San Jose.

I am using a HELOC to finance my project because a cash out refi does not make sense since my current fixed borrowing rate is so very low.

Additionally, I am only borrowing around 20% more of the property’s current equity to build my project.

Personally, I would be very careful with any ARV assumptions you make (unless you have experience) and I would not over-leverage, especially on a primary residence.

Those are just my thoughts but I am curious to hear from others too.

@Adam Mayberry - HAHAHA

@Chris Sawtelle - Let me introduce you to my designer Adam Mayberry.  He is a great resource and could give you lots more information about any possible building options at your property.  Please reach out to him directly.  I highly recommend him.

I am demolishing the garage and relocating the structure while adding a second floor.  I chose this method because:

1. It simplifies my building setbacks so I can build a box.

2. I am building a second floor to maximize my lot space.  (trying to keep backyard)

3. Additionally, I want any future renter to have access privacy.

4. Lastly, I work in commercial property management so I have experience and contacts in the construction industry.  Thus, I can build easier and cheaper then the average person.

***My option is not the most cost effective but it works for my goals.

I own a SFH in the Northside neighborhood of downtown SJ and I am in the process of designing an ADU now. I have secured funding and hired an architect. I am not building a modular. I am building above my detached 2 car garage at the rear of my property.

Based on my experience with contractors and my conversations with my architect, I think your cost assumptions are pretty accurate.

However, most of the cost depends on the size of the unit you are building and the amount of site prep work that is needed to build too.

@Emma Flanders -- It looks like you can build an ADU on an R2. Check out the LA County website --http://planning.lacounty.gov/adu/

I am not sure about LA but in San Jose, the city is pro ADU and you can build on BOTH R1 and R2 lots.

Have you looked at the state standards yet? That allowance might be a state standard.

Also, I think LA might have more relaxed rules like San Jose.  In which case you should be able to find something on the building planning or permitting websites.

Best of luck with your search.

If you can, please let me know the outcome. I am trying to build my knowledge of metro areas throughout the state. Thanks.

My advice....you are the landlord.  Hold your ground more.

If you have provided heat and they keep using space heaters....start billing them for the electrical repairs.  Be nice and professional about it but CHARGE them for misuse of the property.  If they don't correct their behavior or refuse to pay for the repairs, be prepared to evict them.

Not sure what prices are in your area but in the Bay Area, I expect to pay $250 - $300 per SQFT for my project.