How to build an ADU - The first steps to start Accessory Dwelling Units in 2020

Want to know how to build an ADU? People always ask how to start their accessory dwelling unit projects, because there are so many different things to do and places where you could begin.

We had Kol Peterson, the author of “Backdoor Revolution: The Definitive Guide to ADU Development” on How To ADU and the very first question he got was “Where do I start!?”

0:00 What's the best process for building an ADU from start to finish?
1:15 Kol suggests that every homeowner start by getting a rough idea of their costs. Here’s a video that can help you do that: youtu.be/t7D22hXbuf4?t=900
1:47 What kind of project are you talking about? Detached new construction? Prefab? Garage conversion? Etc.
2:13 Then he suggests you think about how you’re going to pay for that. Here’s a video that can help you do that: youtube.com/watch?v=LyCIJf7JdbU
Before you build an ADU, you want to go back and forth between the cost and finance steps and iterate until you get to a project you think you can afford.
3:00 Then Kol suggests you look for permit requirements and any big red flags.
5:45 Summary: Costs, Finance, and Big Zoning Red Flags
7:00 If all this sounds daunting...
9:09 What to do next? Kol’s online course: bit.ly/adu-classroom (this is affiliate link that saves you money and gets me a referral credit).

GET STARTED WITH YOUR OWN ADU PROJECT:
Share your project with me and get help: bit.ly/yt-adu

If you want to start your ADU project, you can get a free estimate from this month's sponsor, Realm Home: l.realmhome.com/how-to-adu


Subscribe to the channel for more accessory dwelling unit resources: bit.ly/how-tube-adu

Here’s a whole playlist of short useful questions we get asked all the time about ADU builds in California: bit.ly/adu-faq

Let’s connect:
If you have questions about your own ADU project, there's a Facebook group where lots of experienced homeowners can talk to you about the questions you have. Every ADU is unique, so it's important to just ask specific questions so people with up-to-date experience in your county or city can chime in and help.
Facebook Group: facebook.com/groups/howtoadu/
Twitter – @howtoadu

Thanks for watching the video. Please let me know what you think in the comments. Are you thinking about how to build ADUs? Can I help you?