The New Avenue blog

More than decade of content on the things we love: your home

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Pricing Your Project in a World Gone Mad

If you ask a contractor for an estimate, you’ll most likely get a quote that’s just plain wrong. We’re talking a +/- 30% difference (or worse). 30% too high, and you won’t get the best value for your money. 30% too low, and you may be left with a hole in the ground while you scramble for financing.

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Converting a garage into a guest suite or rental unit in Menlo Park

Erin’s new attached ADU can be used as a guest suite, additional space for the homeowner, a home for family, or a rental unit. This kind of ADU rents for $2,500 or more per month, which will be enough to pay for the project and additional expenses such as helping with the mortgage on the main home, travel, education, leisure activities, or retirement.

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Can I add two accessory dwellings to my home in California?

When California passed AB 68, among other groundbreaking legislation related to ADUs, we were thrilled. The new laws gave California homeowners more rights related to adding ADUs to their property, including the right to add two accessory dwellings. So for most homeowners, the answer is yes, you can add two ADUs. Here’s a look at some plans for adding two ADUs developed for a client in Berkeley.

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Photos and plans for an accessory dwelling in Albany, CA

The homeowners’ New Avenue design professional created a home with one bedroom, a bathroom, a washer/dryer, a kitchen, and a living area with bamboo flooring. The family will be able to bring in around $3,000 per month in rental income. The ADU will pay for itself in no time, and they can also use the income to pay for the mortgage on the main home, education, travel, or anything else they may need.

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