Looking to complete ADU development in Los Angeles but are not sure how to get started? These 4 steps can get you on the path to building the ADU of your dreams in no time.
Table of Contents
Gather ADU Costs
The best way to start your ADU is by gathering your costs. The four major factors of ADU costs are:
- Design and planning
- City fees
- Construction
- Finish materials
You have complete control over how much you spend for all the stages except city fees. They will be the only factor that your design choices will not affect. If you want to keep your costs as low as possible, then opt for a more simple design that uses cheaper raw and finish materials.
Use all these costs to create a budget that you can stick to throughout the project. Be sure to plan for contingencies as well by setting aside some extra cash in case you hit a speed bump along the way.
Secure Financing
The second step is to make sure you have a way to pay for everything before you start. The last thing you want is to get halfway through your project and realize you don’t have the money to finish it. Your budget will help you determine how much you need.
You can finance your ADU by using your savings, with a cash-out refinance loan, a home equity loan, or with a renovation loan.
Research Zoning And Planning Requirements
To complete this stage, you will need to do a feasibility study. This will allow you to see what type of ADU you can build and where on your property you can build it. It also gives you a good idea of how big you can develop your ADU.
Consult With Experts
There is a lot that goes into building an ADU. Your best bet at having your development process go smoothly is to consult with an ADU expert who has experience developing them in your area. They will know how to complete the rest of the development process and keep your project under budget while doing so.
