ADU Essentials FAQ

• Finding On-Market ADU Deals – Learn how to identify and secure the best properties for ADU development.
• Maximizing Your Property’s Potential: Determining Highest & Best Use – Discover strategies to optimize your space for maximum value and functionality.
• How to Get Your Permits Faster – Navigate the permitting process with confidence and avoid common delays.
• How to Finance Your ADU – Explore financing options to make your ADU project affordable and achievable.

These carefully curated lessons break down the complexities of real estate development, providing actionable solutions to help you kick-start your own ADU project with clarity and confidence.

This course is designed for homeowners, real estate investors, and industry professionals looking to understand and navigate the ADU development process. Whether you want to add an ADU to your property, explore investment opportunities, or expand your expertise in real estate, this course provides the essential knowledge and tools to get started.

The ADU Essentials Course is a video-based learning experience designed for easy and flexible learning. It consists of four expert-led lessons covering key aspects of ADU development, including how to find on-market ADU deals, maximize your property’s potential, navigate the permitting process faster, and explore financing options. Each lesson breaks down complex real estate concepts into clear, actionable insights to help you navigate the ADU process with confidence. Plus, you’ll have access to downloadable resources to keep your project on track. Watch at your own pace, take notes, and revisit lessons anytime as you move forward with your ADU journey.

The ADU Essentials Course is completely free—no hidden fees, no subscriptions. We believe that understanding ADU development should be accessible to everyone, so we’re providing expert-driven lessons at no cost. Simply sign up, start watching, and gain the knowledge you need to move forward with your ADU project.

Yes! Each lesson comes with downloadable resources to help you stay organized and keep your ADU project on track. While the video lessons are available for streaming only, you can download guides, checklists, and other materials to reference anytime as you move through the process.

Yes! Once you sign up, you’ll have lifetime access to the ADU Essentials Course, so you can watch the lessons at your own pace and revisit them anytime. Plus, as we update and expand the course with new insights, you’ll always have access to the latest information.

The approval timeline typically ranges from 9–14 months, depending on the type of property.

• R-3 occupancy (residential) approvals tend to be quicker.
• R-2 occupancy (multifamily/apartment buildings) require additional safety measures (e.g., fire sprinklers), which can slow the process.

Setback rules vary by jurisdiction, but generally:

• Detached ADUs: Require only 4–5 feet from lot lines.
• Attached ADUs: Typically follow the setbacks of the primary structure.

No, a garage conversion must remain within the existing footprint. However, you can expand the structure and classify it as a new ADU instead of a conversion.

Yes, but in California, the increased assessed value will typically only increase by the value of the new construction, not the entire property. Rental income typically offsets any increase.

Prefab ADUs offer cost savings and faster approval times.

Shipping container ADUs often fail to meet California’s strict building codes, making them less practical.

Traditional: HELOCs, cash-out refinances, construction loans, owner-occupied loans.

Creative: Seller financing, loan assumptions, extended escrows, joint ventures.

Innovative: Home equity investments, turnkey ADU programs.

City processing delays (understaffing, evolving regulations).

Unforeseen site conditions discovered during feasibility studies.

Project scope changes, which trigger re-reviews and extended timelines.

Complete a thorough feasibility study upfront to prevent surprises.

Ensure all documentation is accurate and complete before submission.

Communicate with the city regularly to track the status of reviews.