We Make It Easy To Find A Great Garage Conversion Contractor

Yes. New state laws have allowed Los Angeles homeowners the ability to convert a garage into living space, and even rent it out.

Yes. A garage can be converted to an Accessory Dwelling Unit in Los Angeles and the entire state of California. 

No parking is not required for an ADU in Los Angeles (in most cases).

Yes, you can rent an ADU to a tenant.

No, you can rent both the main house and the ADU garage conversion. 

Depending on the size and complexity, full plans should cost between $5,000-$15,000.

Yes. See my other blog for 5 ways to save when building an ADU.

Yes. The options include getting a HELOC, A cash-out refinance, or a renovation loan.

Construction of a garage conversion will take 2-3 months.

Yes, but you will need to create building plans and bring the ADU up to code and pay for the construction that is required. Legalizing an unpermitted ADU requires a considerable amount of time, work, and money. However, many homeowners may find the investment worthwhile. Once you legalize an unpermitted ADU, it significantly increases the value of your house since it becomes a recognized component of your property. In addition, after legalizing an unpermitted ADU, you may legally rent it to a renter and collect rent. Remember to contact your insurance agent and inform them that you must add your new legal ADU to the property coverage (link to insurance blog).

That depends on the age and condition of your structure. A general contractor can give you information and direction on what needs to be done.  You may need to add structural supports to your framing, and/or you may need to add deepen foundations to portions of your garage slab.

It might be a good investment because you’ll get cash flow from renting it PLUS it adds to the value of your home.  See more guidance on my blog for real estate investors. 

$95,000 – $125,000 is the average price of construction to convert a garage to an apartment, otherwise known as an ADU – accessory dwelling unit. The price will depend on many factors, including specific pricing for the garage conversion contractor you hire.

The likely response is “Yes!” The eligibility requirements for an ADU loan are comparable to those for a conventional mortgage. The bank or lender will want the following information: Do you have acceptable credit? Can you demonstrate a stable income? Do you have any investment/savings accounts? Lastly, do you own your home? Consult with your lender to obtain a complete list of the goods needed for your ADU or garage conversion loan.

It is probably a mistake to save money by operating as your own general contractor. Although you believe this may save you money, it’s a bad idea unless you are really skilled or have a vast network of subcontractors (plumber, framer, roofer, foundation, electrical, stucco, drywall, etc,). When you choose a garage conversion contractor, you are not only paying them to oversee the project, but also for their relationships with the crew, employees, and subcontractors who can complete the project successfully. It will be quite difficult for you to find skilled tradespeople. And if one of these sub-contractors performs poorly, you will have to pay twice to repair their errors.

Local investors are increasingly drawn to garage conversions investments as they see the economic potential of the rental revenue. Even if you’re creating a garage conversion for financial purposes, you shouldn’t skimp on the quality of the construction. For your job, be careful to pick a licensed, insured, and reputable general contractor. You’ll want to earn rental money and profit for an extended period of time, and substandard building might hinder your capacity to keep a renter satisfied. In addition, don’t forget to call your insurance agent and add the new ADU to your coverage, as well as a policy to protect you against any accidents or damages caused by the renter.