2 UNIT + ADU convert to 3 legal family

2 UNIT + ADU convert to 3 legal family

Member since 2020 · 69 posts · 12 votes

Hello

I am nearing the completion of two Family + Basement ADU homes. (This home was constructed in 2023, making it relatively new-build.)

1st Floor:

- 4-bedroom room (Currently rented out, $2800)

2nd Floor:

- 4-bedroom room(Currently rented out, $2800)

Basement: ADU, comprising three bedrooms and a bathroom, but lacking a kitchen. (A Certificate of Occupancy has been legally obtained, indicating its attachment to the first floor. Consequently, separate rent is currently not permitted.)

- The current owner resides there. The owner indicates that the market rent for this 3-bedroom site in the basement is approximately $2,200.

The basement ADU is legally constructed, and all associated bills are attached to the 1st Floor. The basement has three bedrooms and a bathroom but lacks a kitchen.

A brief overview of the current design meets the approval criteria (including egress).

I contacted a local contractor, who informed me that if I wish to reduce costs, I can install an electric oven instead of a gas oven.

My question is whether the cost will vary, and what is the likelihood of obtaining approval from the city.

In the event of the most unfavorable scenario, I anticipate renting out a one-floor unit and a basement ADU as a single rental unit. This would provide a total of seven bedrooms and 2,600 square feet. I estimate that the rental income could range from $4,000 to $4,500. However, I am uncertain whether there is a demand for a seven-bedroom unit. Alternatively, if there are other rental options available, I would appreciate your guidance in exploring those possibilities.

My local contractor has stated that the home appears satisfactory, but the conversion from two units to three units may cost up to $200,000. I would like to ascertain the worst-case scenario and explore potential strategies to avoid such a situation.

Thank you!!

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  • Dan H.Pro Member
    Investor · Poway, CA · Member since 2015 · 7k+ posts · 8k+ votes
    2mo

    I do not know that market, but I share your concerns on being able to have a large enough tenant pool for a 7 bedroom to ensure that you can reasonably attain a tenant.  I also question if you can obtain $4k or more rent for such a unit.  

    It is significantly more effort, but have you considered a rent be the room situation?   It likely is your best income approach at the cost of extra effort.   Padsplit is the most known provider of such service. I do not know the feasibility of self managing or finding a qualified local manager that will do rent by room.  Expect they will charge a little higher percent than to manage an LTR.

    I would at a minimum look into this option.

    Good luck

  • Vijay FriedmanBusiness Member
    Miami, FL · Member since 2026 · 766 posts · 122 votes
    2mo
    Quote from @Kevin Kim:

    Hello

    I am nearing the completion of two Family + Basement ADU homes. (This home was constructed in 2023, making it relatively new-build.)

    1st Floor:

    - 4-bedroom room (Currently rented out, $2800)

    2nd Floor:

    - 4-bedroom room(Currently rented out, $2800)

    Basement: ADU, comprising three bedrooms and a bathroom, but lacking a kitchen. (A Certificate of Occupancy has been legally obtained, indicating its attachment to the first floor. Consequently, separate rent is currently not permitted.)

    - The current owner resides there. The owner indicates that the market rent for this 3-bedroom site in the basement is approximately $2,200.

    The basement ADU is legally constructed, and all associated bills are attached to the 1st Floor. The basement has three bedrooms and a bathroom but lacks a kitchen.

    A brief overview of the current design meets the approval criteria (including egress).

    I contacted a local contractor, who informed me that if I wish to reduce costs, I can install an electric oven instead of a gas oven.

    My question is whether the cost will vary, and what is the likelihood of obtaining approval from the city.

    In the event of the most unfavorable scenario, I anticipate renting out a one-floor unit and a basement ADU as a single rental unit. This would provide a total of seven bedrooms and 2,600 square feet. I estimate that the rental income could range from $4,000 to $4,500. However, I am uncertain whether there is a demand for a seven-bedroom unit. Alternatively, if there are other rental options available, I would appreciate your guidance in exploring those possibilities.

    My local contractor has stated that the home appears satisfactory, but the conversion from two units to three units may cost up to $200,000. I would like to ascertain the worst-case scenario and explore potential strategies to avoid such a situation.

    Thank you!!

    @Kevin Kim
    It sounds like you've done a good job thinking through multiple exit scenarios instead of relying on just one outcome. Before committing to a large renovation budget, I'd make sure the city can clearly outline what's required for a legal third unit and confirm that the projected rent increase supports the additional investment. That extra due diligence can help avoid expensive surprises.

    DreamPoint Capital
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