That said, I’d encourage you to at least explore other regions, particularly the middle southern part of the country (think Tennessee, Arkansas, Texas, Oklahoma).

My top of the list for southern CA:- make sure you understand the value that will be added by adding the ADU.  

I live in Southern California, but properties are far too expensive here to get started in my current financial position.

We own a home in Southern California, walking distance to the beach.

North Linden, South of Main, Vassor Village, Woodland Park, MT Vernon, Milo-Grogan, Franklinton, Merrion Village, Hungarian Village, Southern Orchards, Driving Park, Olde Towne East, Franklin Park, King Lincoln, Old Oaks, Livingston Park are all but not limited to some areas in Columbus, Ohio I think will gentrify quickly and make for great long term buy and holds.

Entitlement timelines in Southern California are unpredictable, especially with leased land.

Currently in Southern California (so priced out of the market) and looking to start my REI journey out of state.

(Southern CA) I am retired Navy and my dad was in the Navy.We have a 6 bedroom cabin in Pigeon Forge and the insurance kept going up.

I hear appraisals associated with ADUs regularly in southern Ca and they are typically less than 50% of hands off cost.  

I meant to say ‘If anyone knows any good general contractors that can do end to end remodeling in the southern jersey area that would help.’