All Forum Posts by: Kenny Chau

@Andrew Aladjadjian

Thanks Andrew - I'll definitely check out the podcasts! Good idea on considering having both an JADU and an ADU on property. Giving it some thought, I may be better off with just an ADU in case I prefer to rent it out instead of selling.

Hello BP Community! 

A first post for me! I learned about BP when I first learned about ADUs just about a month ago and have found great value in these forums, so thank you all for your contribution!

I'm shopping around for a SFH with ADU potential. I stumbled across a listing in North Long Beach with an unpermitted garage that was converted into a 1 BD/1 BR unit. A perfect opportunity to live in that unit and rent out the primary unit (3 BD/2 BR). Would've been at least... I hesitated and the property sold, unfortunately. My concerns that held me back at the time was the process to get it permitted at the time (i.e. would city require tear down to inspect, or do I just need to bring it up to code, etc.). I spoke to the Planning Dept and it's case-by-case depending on the condition. My agent mentioned her friend had it done (new ADU), but was required to tear down existing garage (costing $200k for a new garage with upper unit). I also spoke with an ADU Contractor who advised me to look out for utility poles and power lines. Are there other things I should be looking out for other than the obvious (zoning requirements, square footage, etc.)?

I'm hoping to essentially have an internal checklist when going house hunting. This will be a first home purchase for me and I'm excited for what's to come. 

Thank you all in advance! I appreciate any insight that can be shared.

Kenny

@Casey Boerger

Hi Casey,

I only learned about ADUs about a month ago and have been researching it since then. I was looking into purchasing a SFR with unpermitted work done to the front and garage. From what I've read, I recall that my local city (Long Beach, CA) would require the primary structure to be fully permitted first before considering the ADU.

Hope that helps and good luck!

Kenny