Accessory dwelling units (ADUs) have become an increasingly valuable option for homeowners looking to add rental income or house extra family members.

An accessory dwelling unit, or ADU, is a new name for an old idea. A second residence located in the backyard, or over the garage, may have been referred to in the past as a guest cottage, a casita or a granny flat. In San Diego, it could be permitted as guest quarters for extended family or a companion unit to generate rental income.

In 2016, the state Legislature passed SB1069, which defined and legislated these second units. It essentially aims to create more affordable housing in single-family residential zones as a grassroots movement. Rather than having big developers come in, the law gives individual homeowners the ability to be the developer for their own properties.

So now is the time – if you’ve been thinking of utilizing the unused space on your property, let’s talk about how we can help build a beautiful living space that will more than pay for itself over time.