Cost to convert a garage to a one-bedroom apartment in Emeryville, CA
A property owner in Emeryville came to New Avenue with the goal of adding an additional housing unit to increase his rental income. The existing property included two residential units in the main building, and the owner wasn't sure whether he should add a unit over the driveway, add on to the existing home, or build a detached cottage.
After meeting with a New Avenue partner designer and receiving the designer's professional opinion, the owner decided to put his new housing unit over the property's garage. The new unit includes a kitchen, a bedroom, and a bathroom. In addition to the unit construction, the owner opted to re-work the property's landscaping and alter the driveway.
At the time of the project, the total cost for design and permitting was $14,000, and the total cost for construction was $310,524. In 2020, design and permitting would cost $16,100.00, and construction would cost $357,102.00.
This owner was wise to add a new unit for rental income. Once the project is complete, he’ll be able to rent it out and will have it paid off in just a few years.
