Irvine women build ADU

NEW -> Contingent Buyer Assistance Program
momopi

momopi

Well-known member
Saw this article today.

www.businessinsider.com

I took out a second mortgage to build a tiny home in my backyard. Making money isn't the only reason it was worth it.

Elaine Yang rented for over a decade. When it was time for her to buy a house, she made sure someone else could live there too — in an ADU.
www.businessinsider.com www.businessinsider.com


This article from the builder has the numbers:

www.samara.com

Life with Backyard: Taking the leap — Samara

Elaine shares what it is like to build Backyard as a first-time homeowner.
www.samara.com www.samara.com

The cost was $300k and she financed the loan in 2025 with monthly payment of $1600. The 540 sq ft ADU rents for $3000/month.
 
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Pre-Approved ADU Plans Program

The ADU Standard Plan Program offers pre-approved architectural and structural plans designed by licensed professionals. These plans are reviewed and approved by the City of Irvine to ensure compliance with building codes. Key Features of the Standard Plan Program: Variety of Plans: The program...
cityofirvine.org cityofirvine.org
 
@momopi

Thanks, both links were very interesting reads.

I'm surprised a 1br/ba ADU can rent for $3k/mo. I wonder why she didn't go 2bt/1ba for a little more rent at not much more cost (unless it couldn't fit).

Internet tells me that local builders can be cheaper than these prefab units.
 
CA state law allows ADU up to 800-1200 sq ft with 4’ set back to side and back. Irvine has smaller lot size so, she probably picked the 540 sq ft plan due to space and cost considerations.

Under CA prop 13, adding ADU will not trigger full reassessment of your property. The increase is limited to value of ADU.
 
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test said:
Fugly. Can't believe the HOA allows it.
Click to expand...
If you're not using your backyard, you might as well rent it.

Can't tell by the articles where exactly this is but looks like one of the older hoods:

1776981055801.png

This does seem like an HOA eyesore which is why going with a local builder they might match the surrounding homes better over prefab.
 
HOA is probably more concerned about appearance from front of the house.

HOA can make “reasonable” demands on exterior design and aesthetics, but they cannot supersede state law and prohibit ADU’s.
 
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