A garage conversion looks cheaper because the roof is already there. Sometimes it is. Sometimes the garage does not drain, does not insulate, and sits in a setback that will never take a bath.
An ADU is a new permitted dwelling. It costs more because you are building a house in the backyard, not drywalling a parking stall.
When conversion wins
Office, studio, gym, guest room without a bath — conversions shine. You are buying insulation, egress, and electrical. You are not fighting gravity.
When the ADU is the honest answer
If someone will sleep there, cook there, and shower there, you need a dwelling. Forcing a bath into a garage that sits below the sewer is how you buy a pump, a callback, and a fight with inspection.
We have talked owners out of the bath. They still have a quiet room. That is a win.
Written for homeowners in San Fernando Valley. CSLB #1120118.
