ABOUT SNAPADU
Setting the Standard for ADU Design-Build in San Diego
Most ADU projects fail in the ‘unknowns’… the utility gaps, the permitting hurdles, and the shifting budgets. We built SnapADU to solve that.
Since 2020, we have focused strictly on new detached ADUs in Greater San Diego, developing a specialized development logic that eliminates guesswork for homeowners. Proudly woman-owned, we bring a level of strategic project management and disciplined oversight often missing in traditional contracting. With a BBB A+ rating and 100+ completed builds, our system-first approach ensures predictable results. We’re raising the bar for ADU construction in San Diego.
Homeowners often come to us frustrated after wasting months on plans that couldn’t be permitted, or were too costly to build. Our deep code knowledge and city relationships mean we get it right from the start… saving you time, money, and stress.
ADU Expertise
Specialists who understand ADUs.
Our in-house design & permitting team understand ADU regulations and site factors that shape an ADU’s success. With deep knowledge of local codes & construction realities, we plan with intention and advocate on your behalf, so your project stays on track.
Proven Results
100+ ADUs built… not just designed.
We’ve delivered quality builds across San Diego County, with many cities choosing our team to design their pre-approved ADU plans. Our track record and high referral rate speak for themselves: we know how to get projects permitted and completed.
Full Accountability
From first sketch to final inspection.
We take full ownership of your project with in-house project managers and superintendents guiding every step. As a local, woman-owned business, we’re committed to clear communication, transparent pricing, and a 6-month price lock for peace of mind.
Meet Our Team
Building an ADU is a big investment, and you need a team that is as committed to the outcome as you are. We love what we do, and that passion translates into the experience you’ll have as a homeowner. Over the years, we’ve fine-tuned how we work together to make the process seamless, efficient, and predictable for our clients.
We care deeply about our work and about you. Not just because it’s our job, but because we take pride in creating ADUs that genuinely improve people’s lives. Our team brings together diverse expertise, fresh ideas, and deep respect for the craft. We know the best results come from solid collaboration, hard work and follow through.
Watch our ADU 101 Webinar
[Video] What It’s Like Working with SnapADU
Testimonials & Stories from our Clients
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Generate rental income
Many homeowners add ADUs to create a new stream of rental income.
Learn More -
Bring aging parents closer
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House younger family members
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Downsize and rent main house
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Create flex space for work/hobby
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Generate rental income
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Bring aging parents closer
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House younger family members
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Downsize and rent main house
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Create flex space for work/hobby
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See the full story & ADU
We were looking at ways to invest our money. My wife and I thought, why don't we build an ADU for rental income? Also, someday we can move into it. So it has multiple purposes.
Paul & Myra Winter
Homeowners, Oceanside
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See the full story & ADU
When we bought our house, Kristen was pregnant and we wanted Grandma to be around to help with the baby. And then ultimately, we wanted to be around for Mom when she gets older.
The Heards
Homeowners, Oceanside
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See the full story & ADU
We decided to build an ADU because our family's property is a big lot. That's hard to find these days, especially with the cost of housing. Plus we are closer to my mom.
Marina & Will
ADU Residents, San Marcos
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See the full story & ADU
I decided to build an ADU because the property was a double wide lot. I'm a half mile from the beach and could see the view from the top of my house and thought, I have to take advantage of that.
Zeno Rausa
Homeowner, Oceanside
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See the full story & ADU
I'm a product stylist and photographer. I decided to build an ADU because my business was taking off and I was spending a lot of time outside of the home. Building a studio lets me work from home more.
Liz Ream
Homeowner, Vista
“You guys do such a wonderful job with attention to detail on your construction for ADU projects, and your paperwork administration level is out of this world. I really appreciate all your employees’ work ethics- really nice kind people to work with. You guys definitely lead the way on how Construction projects should run in the field and internally behind the scenes. Thank you so much.” – Building Inspector, City of Carlsbad
Trusted by Cities, Chosen for Expertise
Our expertise has earned us recognition beyond individual homeowners. Both the City of Chula Vista and the City of San Marcos selected SnapADU to design their pre-approved ADU plans, which are now also accepted in the City of San Diego.
These opportunities came through competitive bid processes with over two dozen applicants, including top architectural firms with experience designing pre-approved plans for other cities across California. This achievement highlights our reputation as a trusted leader in the ADU industry, demonstrating our ability to deliver efficient, high-quality, and fully compliant ADU plans.
Our ADU Process
Learn more about the step-by-step process of working with Snap ADU to design, permit & build an ADU, including overall project phases and typical timeline. We’re constantly pushing to get better at what we do.
Why SnapADU Is Recognized as a Leading ADU Builder in San Diego
Choosing an ADU builder is a high-stakes decision. The right partner can help you avoid wasted months, redesigns, budget surprises, and permitting delays. Our awards and industry recognition reflect what homeowners need most: ADU-specific expertise, local code knowledge, disciplined project management, and one accountable team from design through construction.
- Maxable 10 Best ADUs of 2025: SnapADU’s Copperline ADU was recognized as one of Maxable’s “10 Best ADUs of 2025”
- Best ADU Builders in San Diego: Home Builder Digest named SnapADU one of San Diego’s best accessory dwelling unit builders.
- Best of Houzz Service 2026: SnapADU has been recognized for service quality on Houzz.
- 40 Under 40 Leadership: Co-founder and CEO Whitney Hill was named one of San Diego Business Journal’s 40 Under 40 Business Leaders, and Carlsbad Business Journal / Carlsbad Chamber 40 Under 40
- National Homebuilding Expert Recognition: Whitney Hill was named to Fixr’s 100 Top Home Building Experts in 2025.
- BIA San Diego ADU Leadership: Whitney serves as Co-Chair of the BIA San Diego Responsible ADU Committee.
- ADU Coalition Award Winner: SnapADU earned recognition in five ADU Coalition Awards categories, including wins for small-space design and larger-space stick-built construction.
These awards and leadership roles reflect SnapADU’s commitment to high-quality ADU design, disciplined permitting, clear construction management, and responsible housing growth throughout San Diego County.
[Video] How to add an ADU San Diego
See more client stories
Our origin story
We’re 100% focused on being the best ADU builders in San Diego. We do this by having a deep understanding of construction, design, regulations, and business.
Our co-founders were both excited about changes in ADU regulations, while they brought very different perspectives to the company. Mike has spent his whole life in construction and built custom homes under his own general contracting license since 2013. Meanwhile, Whitney worked in the corporate world for over a decade honing management and operational skills. Together with an incredible team, they created SnapADU in 2020 to meet the need for both standard and custom detached ADUs in San Diego.
Snap in the Spotlight
Discover what industry experts, news outlets, and media platforms are saying about SnapADU! From insightful podcast interviews to feature articles in top publications, explore how our team is shaping the conversation around ADUs. See where we’ve been featured and stay up to date with the latest trends, insights, and innovations in the ADU space.
Check out our ADU insights
Out of the thousands of ADU blogs & resources on the internet, our website has been rated by FeedSpot as one of the top ADU resources on the entire web. We publish updates & add fresh content regularly so that homeowners in San Diego can stay informed.
Why we love building granny flats
SnapADU Mission Statement: We make it approachable to thoughtfully add housing so our community can build flexibility and potential.
We get to help people and families come closer together through multigenerational living… to live closer and be part of each others’ lives daily, to bring aging parents closer to grandkids, to give handicapped dependents more independence, or to give young adults a chance to raise their kids in a community they might not normally be able to afford.
We also get to help people bring in rental income… money that helps them pay their mortgage, travel more, work less, or even retire sooner. We offer them flexibility, since ADUs are versatile and meet the demands of evolving lifestyles.
We plan and design with each client to make the best lifestyle choice for their family. What size ADU? Where on their property should it go? Which floor plan should they choose? How much will it cost? Does it make sense? We have respect for our clients and want to help them as they are considering options for their unique situation.