Information on accessory dwelling units, also known as granny units, second units, and in-law units
Current Situation Client: Woman about to retire Need: Current and future income; future living space Budget Level: Medium The client is a single woman who is planning to retire in two to three years. She would like to realize a moderate increase in income during her remaining working years with the possibility of further increasing
New laws impacting the creation of ADUs A number of new accessory dwelling unit (ADU) and junior accessory dwelling unit (JADU) laws went into effect in January 2025 that are meant to create more affordable housing. There was a time, not that long ago, when permits for the conversion of a garage into a “mother-in-law”
A version of this post first ran in 2018. ADUs are growing in popularity in California, and with good reason. ADUs – accessory dwelling units (also known as “granny units”) – are small living spaces that are on the same property but are separate from the main living space. They can be attached to the
Accessory dwelling units (also known as “granny units” or ADUs) are small living spaces that are on the same property, but are separate from, the main living space. They can be attached to the main home or completely separate. They range from tiny studio apartments to fully appointed cottages and can serve lots of different
With all the praise and enthusiasm for Accessory Dwelling Units today, you might be surprised by their history. Commonly referred to as in-law units or granny flats by some and infill apartments by affordable housing advocates, they were once highly restricted and outright illegal in many municipalities. In 2017 a California law (AB68) was enacted
Thanks to laws that went into effect January 1, 2020, building an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) – also known as a “granny unit” or “in-law unit” – is a more attractive option than ever for California homeowners who want to gain a little additional living space or get some rental income. If you’re considering building
A version of this post first ran in 2018. ADUs are growing in popularity in California, and with good reason. ADUs – accessory dwelling units (also known as “granny units”) – are small living spaces that are on the same property but are separate from the main living space. They can be attached to the
SB 9 signed into law by Governor Newsom in September SB 9, dubbed the California HOME (Housing Opportunity & More Efficiency) Act, sponsored by State Senator Toni G. Atkins, is a part of the Senate’s Building Opportunities for All housing package. According to Senator Atkin’s fact sheet, “The bill establishes a statewide path for homeowners
With all the praise and enthusiasm for Accessory Dwelling Units today, you might be surprised by their history. Commonly referred to as in-law units or granny flats by some and infill apartments by affordable housing advocates, they were once highly restricted and outright illegal in many municipalities. In 2017 a California law (AB68) was enacted
A version of this post first ran in 2018. ADUs are growing in popularity in California, and with good reason. ADUs – accessory dwelling units (also known as “granny units”) – are small living spaces that are on the same property but are separate from the main living space. They can be attached to the
