Stacked Units using San Diego ADU Bonus Program
Hidalgo Avenue, San Diego, CA 92117
Homeowner Story: Generate rental income
Special Circumstance: Multiple ADUs
Building a Duplex ADU with San Diego’s Bonus Program
Utilizing a special program to build a bonus ADU in San Diego, this investor stacked two 1200 sqft ADUs to create this two-story unit. Our Snap Standard 3BR/3BA 1200sqft L-Shaped plan is being used for both units to offer symmetry between the two rentals. Minimal modifications were made to the units to ensure the building is as cost-effective as possible. This client is a busy professional who was looking to be hands-off for the project, which is being built on one of his rental properties.
Strategic Design for Cost-Effective Development
For homeowners considering multiple ADUs, strategies like stacking units or building duplex-style ADUs can optimize space while staying within regulatory guidelines. These approaches work especially well on multifamily or larger single-family lots.
However, it’s important to account for the cost implications of building multiple units. Consider economies of scale, fire rating requirements, and additional access points. Also, plan for added utility expenses including water, sewer, gas, and electrical connections which can impact total project cost.
Affordable San Diego ADU Bonus Program
The Affordable ADU Bonus Program offers a valuable incentive for developers. For every ADU restricted to moderate-income households for 15 years or low-income households for 10 years, property owners can build an additional market-rate ADU.
Key points of the Affordable ADU Agreement include:
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Restrictions on renting to related individuals, student dependents, property owners, or tenants with liquid assets exceeding 110% of the Area Median Income
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Design requirements that ensure affordable ADUs match the size and amenities of the market-rate units
This promotes consistency and quality across the development while increasing access to affordable housing.
By stacking units and leveraging San Diego’s bonus program, this investor has created a highly efficient and profitable duplex ADU — one that meets both financial goals and community housing needs.
Floor Plan:
3BR/3BA 48×31 L-Shape
Community:
The City of San Diego ADU Guide
SnapADU is a leader in the San Diego ADU market, with a portfolio that includes dozens of completed and ongoing granny flat projects. Our team’s in-depth knowledge of the city’s ADU regulations and our established relationships with local permitting offices streamline the process for our clients. We’re committed to leveraging our experience to navigate the complexities of each project, from initial design to final construction, ensuring that every ADU we build meets the unique needs of homeowners while complying with local guidelines.
Of note, San Diego promotes the building of more ADUs through the affordable ADU bonus program.
