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ADU Resources & Guides

Expert insights on ADU construction, permits, costs, and investment strategy across the Central Coast.

ADU Cost 2026
Costs & Pricing

How Much Does an ADU Cost in Santa Cruz County in 2026?

A complete breakdown of ADU construction costs — from garage conversions to detached two-story units. Real numbers from real projects.

June 20268 min read
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ADU Permit Guide
Permits & Process

The Complete ADU Permit Guide for Santa Cruz County

Step-by-step permit process, fees, timelines, and common pitfalls. Everything you need to know before breaking ground.

June 202610 min read
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Garage Conversions Guide
Garage Conversions

Garage Conversion ADU: The Complete Guide for California Homeowners

Is your garage a good candidate for conversion? Learn the qualifications, process, costs, and what you'll gain.

June 20269 min read
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ADU ROI
Investment & ROI

ADU Return on Investment: Real Numbers from the Central Coast

Rental income projections, property value increases, and payback timelines for ADUs in Santa Cruz and Monterey Counties.

June 20267 min read
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ADU Design Mistakes
Design & Planning

5 ADU Design Mistakes That Cost Homeowners Thousands

After 30 years of building, we've seen these mistakes over and over. Here's how to avoid them before you break ground.

June 20266 min read
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California ADU Laws
Laws & Regulations

California ADU Laws in 2026: What Every Homeowner Needs to Know

New state laws make it easier than ever to build an ADU in California. Here's what changed and what it means for you.

June 20268 min read
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Garage Conversion ADU
Garage Conversions

Santa Cruz County Says Garage Conversions Are the Way to Go — Here's Why They're Right

Santa Cruz County's own building department calls garage conversions the smartest ADU move. Solar exemptions, no parking replacement, lower costs.

August 20266 min read
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Sell Your ADU AB 1033
Laws & Regulations

Can You Sell Your ADU Separately in Santa Cruz? AB 1033 Explained

California AB 1033 lets homeowners sell an ADU as a standalone condo. Santa Cruz City already allows it. Here's what it means for Central Coast homeowners.

August 20267 min read
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How to Hire a General Contractor in Santa Cruz
Hiring & Planning

How to Hire a General Contractor in Santa Cruz: A Homeowner's Guide

6 steps to find, vet, and hire the right contractor in Santa Cruz County — including how to verify a CSLB license and what to put in your contract.

October 20268 min read
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Home Addition vs ADU Santa Cruz
Design & Planning

Home Addition vs ADU: Which Is Right for Your Santa Cruz Property?

Not sure whether to build out or build separate? We break down costs, timelines, permits, and rental income potential so you can make the right call.

October 20269 min read
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California Coastal Commission Permitting Central Coast
Permits & Regulations

The California Coastal Commission: How It Affects Your Build on the Central Coast

The CC can override your local building department, delay projects for years, or kill them entirely. Here's what every Central Coast homeowner needs to know.

October 202610 min read
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