All Forum Posts by: Brian Larson

@Dan H. - I hear you.  It is a good point.  Do you know anyone who actually went toe-to-toe with the local municipality on that point though?  Let me know cuz I don't think someone would come out ahead.

Also, I would like to mention that my project is a complete ground-up build (2 story garage) with lots of site work. In other words, it is not something that can be approved over-the-counter with local planning. I have neighbors who have had similar issues getting plans approved. San Jose is probably one of the most pro-ADU environments but they have been overloaded with ADU project submittals.

@Ken Buck - I am the most familiar with San Jose. They are very friendly to ADUs (most info can easily be found online) but there are limits on ADU sizes based on lot size and zoning. Most people can't build more than a 1 bedroom in downtown San Jose.

Also, the planning department is really, really backed up with all the new submittals here. I submitted in November and I still don’t have an approved plan. It took over 90 days for the first response. Fingers-crossed that there aren’t more delays due to the virus.

However, there are shortcuts in San Jose.  They have pre-approved pre-fab plans with Abodu.com and prefabadu.com that cut down the cost and time for most residents.

All of this building is being pushed to help comply with all the planned tech development in downtown over the coming decade. The city desperately needs to increase its housing stock to balance this planned Commercial development.

Try speaking with @Adam Mayberry. I am using him for my ADU project in San Jose.

By buying or building an ADU, you can essentially turn a SFH into a duplex or triplex. I think this is a great wealth creator option for the bay area.

@Inna Le - Have you looked at the San Jose Website?  They have some good info here.  

https://www.sanjoseca.gov/business/development-services-permit-center/accessory-dwelling-units-adus/adu-amnesty-program

Also, you could try speaking with a local architect like @Adam Mayberry. I am working on building an ADU on my property with him. He has been a wealth of information.

@Jessica Lawrence - You can key word "ADU" or "in-law" into most Redfin and Zillow searches to obtain this information yourself.

However, if you connect with a Realtor, they can automate this process for you to see these properties thru their MLS Subscription. Best of luck with your plans.

You can try https://floorplanner.com/.  It is an open source and free option. 

Thanks for the comments. It all makes sense.

@Account Closed - the non-discrimination changes. How are folks planning work with these new rules?

Hey BP Community,

Are there any posts out there on the new Section 8 Rules in California yet?  How are people managing this?  Does anyone have any advice they can share here?