perpetualhomes

Pool vs. ADU: What Makes Sense for Your Backyard Investment?

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 01:41:12 GMT

Why Are California Homebuyers Choosing ADUs Over Pools for Backyard Investment?

For many California homeowners, the backyard is no longer just extra space. It has become part of a larger financial and lifestyle decision. One of the most common questions today is whether to invest in a swimming pool or build an accessory dwelling unit (ADU).

At the same time, buyer demand is shifting. More people are actively searching for homes that already have an ADU or at least the space to build one. This trend is being shaped by housing costs, changing family needs, and long-term investment thinking.

The Shift in Buyer Priorities

Housing insights from the California Association of Realtors show that buyers are placing more value on flexible living space and income potential. Features that once felt like luxury upgrades, such as pools, are no longer at the top of the list for many buyers.

Katherine Anderson, founder and Managing Partner of Perpetual Homes, sees this firsthand: “We work with a number of realtors who are noticing a change in what buyers are searching for. Swimming pools aren’t on the top of the list anymore, and homeowners are searching for lots that have room to put in an ADU.”

This shift is also being supported at the state level. The California Department of Housing and Community Development has expanded opportunities for homeowners through ADU laws and Senate Bill 9 (SB 9), both designed to increase housing supply in single-family neighborhoods.

What SB 9 Means for Homeowners

SB 9 allows property owners in many single-family zones to increase the number of homes on their property without going through a lengthy approval process. The law removes discretionary review and public hearings for qualifying projects, making it easier to move forward.

SB 9 gives homeowners a few key options:

Build up to two homes on a single-family lot
Split one lot into two smaller lots
Combine both to allow up to four total homes, where one was previously allowed

You can also use SB 9 to build a single new unit, as long as the project meets local standards for setbacks, lot size, and access.

If you don’t split your lot, you may be able to add up to two additional units, depending on local rules, and often still include ADUs or junior ADUs under separate laws. If you do split your lot, the total number of units is typically capped at four across both parcels.

SB 9, combined with ADU regulations, gives California homeowners more flexibility to use their property in a way that fits their needs, whether that’s adding space for family or creating long-term value.

Comparing Investment Value: Pool vs. ADU

A pool can improve lifestyle and enjoyment. It may add some resale appeal in certain markets, but it typically does not generate income. It also comes with ongoing costs for maintenance, utilities, and insurance.

An ADU, on the other hand, functions as real estate within your real estate. It can serve multiple purposes:

Rental income
Housing for family members
Private workspace or guest home

From an investment standpoint, ADUs tend to provide stronger long-term value. According to data referenced by the California Association of Realtors, properties with ADUs often attract more buyers and can sell faster due to their added flexibility.

Katherine Anderson puts it simply, “Houses are selling a lot quicker if they can fit an ADU on their lot because it's a better investment and adds value to your property to build an ADU.”

Addressing California’s Housing Needs

California continues to face a housing shortage. State agencies, including the California Department of Housing and Community Development, have identified ADUs as a key part of the solution. By allowing homeowners to add smaller, independent units, the state can increase housing supply without large-scale development.

Perpetual Homes ADU is part of that effort. The company works with homeowners across California to design and build prefab ADUs that are faster to deliver and more cost-effective than traditional construction.

“How we can solve customers' housing shortage,” Katherine Anderson explains is looking at the bigger picture. “They're talking about all the multigenerational living out there. And yes, you can have the traditional model of multigenerational living, but it's a lot nicer if you can have your own separate detached ADU.”

Multigenerational Living Done Right

One of the biggest drivers behind ADU demand is family. Many homeowners are looking for ways to support aging parents or provide space for adult children.

“Clients are really looking for ADUs for their parents and family members,” says Anderson.

This approach offers both proximity and privacy. Instead of sharing one home, families can live close together while maintaining separate spaces. There is also a financial benefit. Senior care facilities in California can be expensive. Building an ADU can sometimes cost less than a few years of assisted living.

“With the aging population, many senior home facilities are expensive. And when you run the numbers, you can quickly see that paying for an ADU versus the cost of three years of paying for a senior home can be a deciding factor. And the bonus is you can be close to your kids and watch the grandkids grow up.”

Customizable, Faster, and More Cost-Effective

One concern homeowners often have is whether an ADU will feel limited or generic. With Perpetual Homes ADU, that is not the case. About 85 percent of clients customize their floor plans at no additional cost. Layouts, finishes, and configurations can be adjusted to match how the space will be used.

Prefab construction also reduces both timeline and cost compared to traditional custom building. Because much of the home is built in a controlled environment, projects move more efficiently and avoid many common delays.

The result is a lower overall price point and a faster path from planning to move-in.

See What Fits Your Property

If you are considering an ADU, one of the first questions is whether your lot can accommodate it. Perpetual Homes offers an interactive tool to help homeowners visualize options. By entering your address, you can see which customizable and affordable prefab ADU models fit your property. You can drag, rotate, and compare backyard homes to confirm the right size and placement before starting your project.

Tour ADU Models in Northern California

Seeing a finished ADU in person can make the decision much clearer. Perpetual Homes currently offers model tours in Northern California. You can schedule an appointment in Danville, Concord, Sonoma, or Santa Rosa to walk through a completed ADU, explore layout options, and see the quality of our prefab and modular backyard homes at affordable prices.

Touring a model gives you a real sense of layout, materials, and how the space functions day to day.

Long-term Benefits for California Homeowners

A pool can still be a great addition for your lifestyle, but for many California homeowners, the numbers and the long-term benefits are pointing in a different direction. An ADU offers flexibility, potential income, and a way to support family while adding value to your property.

If your goal is to make a smart backyard investment, it is worth asking not just what looks good today, but what will serve you and your property for years to come. As Katherine Anderson notes, “The shift is already happening, and buyers are thinking ahead. They are looking for properties that give them options.”

Ready to take the next step?

Contact Perpetual Homes ADU to schedule a consultation or book a tour of their model one of their model homes and see what’s possible for your backyard.

Sources and References:

California Association of Realtors:

https://www.car.org/aboutus/mediacenter/newsreleases/2025releases/2026forecast

https://www.car.org/aboutus/mediacenter/newsreleases/2026releases/Feb2026sales

California Department of Housing and Community Development:

https://www.hcd.ca.gov/sites/default/files/docs/planning-and-community/sb-9-fact-sheet.pdf

Perpetual Homes ADU:

https://build.perpetualhomesadu.com/start

Disclaimer: This article is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, tax, or construction advice. ADU regulations, costs, and building requirements may vary by location and property conditions. Homeowners should consult with licensed professionals and local planning authorities to confirm current requirements. For questions about building a prefab ADU, you may also contact the Perpetual Homes ADU team for a consultation.

California ADU Laws 2026: New Senate Bill Updates

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 23:34:12 GMT

2026 California Senate Bill Updates

California continues to reshape the path to building housing in 2026, with a new wave of proposed and updated Senate and Assembly bills focused on streamlining approvals, reducing costs, and expanding opportunities for homeowners. From faster permitting timelines and clearer infrastructure requirements to expanded ADU allowances and new pathways for property value and ownership, these updates reflect a broader push to make housing more accessible across the state. For homeowners considering an ADU, these changes are especially relevant, as many of the bills directly impact how quickly and affordably backyard homes can be designed, approved, and built.

Faster Approvals & Simpler Process

These updates are designed to reduce delays, improve transparency, and make the building process more predictable from start to finish.

AB 1294 creates a single, statewide application process for new home construction in California, making it faster, cheaper, and easier for home builders to complete the application process.
SB 1014 would require cities to disclose all local requirements related to infrastructure (like sidewalks and sewers) within 30 days of a housing project’s initial application and prohibit cities from adding new requirements more than 30 days after a building permit application. The bill will improve project certainty, reducing risk and cost.
AB 1738 (Carrillo) SPUR, Casita Coalition. Remote virtual inspections for solar systems and ADUs/JADUs.
SB 1216 (Cabaldon) will create a new housing leadership designation to recognize and reward cities and counties that demonstrate measurable success in building new homes.

More ADU Potential & Property Value Opportunities

These updates expand what homeowners can build and how ADUs contribute to long-term property value.

AB 956 (Quirk-Silva) will increase the housing potential of single-family lots by empowering homeowners to build up to two detached ADUs (accessory dwelling units) on their properties.
SB 1117 (Cervantes) will make it less costly to build ADUs by removing an arbitrary financial penalty that many jurisdictions impose on ADUs over 750 square feet.
SB 1033 will enforce the higher value of ADU comparables to condominiums. Allowing the separate sale of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) significantly shifts how they impact property value. Previously, an ADU's value was "locked" to the primary home, but the new ordinance allows homeowners to treat them as independent assets similar to condominiums.
SB 1169/1109 (McNerney) ADU Energization timelines, requirements for pre-application consultation, simultaneous utility app and building permit app, upfront cost estimate for planning purposes, timeline with defined steps and number of days, applicant can file complaints with CPUC, utility can’t cancel application without notice, or take more than 30 days for final connection for reasons other that project readiness. Fines for delays in aggregate annually, fines for violations.

Expanding Housing Options & Urban Growth

These bills focus on increasing housing supply, supporting first-time ownership, and building smarter in existing communities.

SB 1116 (Caballero) will streamline the construction of smaller, lower-cost “starter” homes for home ownership by making several improvements to existing state housing law.
AB 1406 will give more Californians a pathway to affordable homeownership by raising current limits on homebuyer deposits in new housing developments, especially condos. The bill helps builders lower their construction and financing costs by reducing risk to lenders and investors, ultimately leading to lower-cost homes for Californians.
AB 2074 will accelerate the recovery of dense, urban neighborhoods in California’s largest cities by streamlining the construction of high-rise, residential developments near regional transit hubs. The bill includes a low-interest revolving loan fund that will help lower construction costs.
SB 908 (Wiener) adds clarifying language and technical guidance to SB 79 (2025), California’s landmark transit-oriented housing law. The bill will make it easier for local planning departments and builders to use SB 79 to build more homes near transit by eliminating ambiguities and tightening definitions, so local jurisdictions can implement its provisions without confusion or delay.

Policy Updates & Ongoing Reforms

Additional legislation continues to refine how housing projects are approved, financed, and delivered across California.

SB 9 Reforms in Process: A third party can be a subdivider and submit to the municipality ministerially. A trust or LLC can be an occupant. Building permits and subdivision applications can be concurrent.
SB 876 (Padilla): Insurance reforms 1169 (Quirk-Silva) By right approvals and CEQA exemptions for some townhomes.

Please email, call, or visit our website for more details:

Email: perpetualhomesadu@gmail.com

Phone: +1 (925) 980-2351

ADU Catalog: build.perpetualhomesadu.com

Dealer’s License #: 1557865

How to Rebuild After a Wildfire in California: Prefab Homes and ADU Options

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 20:18:06 GMT

Rebuilding After a Fire in California: A Practical Guide for Homeowners

Rebuilding after a fire can feel overwhelming. Between insurance, permits, and major decisions, it is not always clear where to start. Perpetual Homes has worked closely with homeowners rebuilding after the 2020 Glass Fire in Sonoma and Napa, guiding them from initial property assessments through final construction. That experience brings a practical understanding of California’s rebuilding process, including zoning, permitting, and realistic timelines after a wildfire.

The Palisades and Eaton fires in 2025 had a major impact across Southern California, affecting communities including Altadena, Pacific Palisades, Topanga, and Malibu. For homeowners in these areas, rebuilding is not just about replacing what was lost. It is about making informed decisions around design, safety, and long-term property value while exploring options like prefab homes and accessory dwelling units (ADUs).

Start with Insurance and Property Assessment

Before making any building decisions, connect with your insurance provider and document all damage. Once you understand your coverage, the next step is evaluating your property. This includes zoning, lot size, utility access, and local rebuilding requirements.

Working with a builder early in this phase can help you understand what is feasible and avoid delays later in the process.

Understand Your Rebuild Options

Many homeowners assume they must rebuild the exact same structure. In California, that is not always the case. You may have the opportunity to redesign your property with more flexibility.

This is where prefab construction and Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) come into play.

Homeowners are increasingly choosing to rebuild with a primary residence plus an ADU, or even start with an ADU as a faster path back onto their property.

Perpetual Homes offers a wide range of prefab ADU designs, from one-bedroom layouts and duplex options to larger four-bedroom homes, along with high-quality single-family residences. Their catalog makes it easy to review floor plans, compare layouts, and select a design that fits your property and long-term goals.

Consider Prefab for Faster Rebuilding

One of the biggest challenges after a fire is time. Traditional construction timelines can stretch due to labor shortages, weather delays, and inspection backlogs. Prefab, or off-site construction, offers a different approach.

“In addition to ADUs, we also built single-family homes. And with our off-site residential construction, we can build quicker and faster than on-site construction.” Katherine Anderson, founder and managing partner of Perpetual Homes, explains. “We can do a lot faster build time because most of the inspections are completed at the factory. So, it's quicker because we only need approximately three inspections on site.”

Why Homeowners Choose Prefab After a Fire

Prefab construction is not just faster. It’s often more predictable and efficient during a stressful rebuilding process.

Faster timelines: Factory construction and site preparation happen at the same time. Many projects can be completed in as little as six months, depending on the jurisdiction.
Built indoors for quality: Homes are constructed in a controlled environment, protected from weather and moisture.
Durable materials: Precision-built for long-term performance and consistency.
Lower environmental impact: Reduced material waste and more efficient building practices.
Streamlined inspections: Most inspections happen in the factory, reducing delays on-site.
Flexible design options: Choose from highly customizable ADU and single-family detached home layouts.

Plan for Long-Term Value

Rebuilding is an opportunity to think beyond replacing your home. Many homeowners are adding ADUs for multigenerational living, rental income, or future flexibility.

Perpetual Homes offers a full catalog of customizable ADU and single-family home designs that are created to maximize space, style, and livability. Each model is built with energy-efficient materials such as engineered lumber, low-VOC finishes, and advanced insulation systems. These choices support healthier indoor environments and can reduce long-term utility costs.

Prefab construction also tends to offer more predictable pricing, with transparent costs and fewer surprises during construction.

Work with a Full-Service Builder
Rebuilding involves many moving parts, from permits to final inspections. Working with a team that manages the entire process can make a significant difference.

With hands-on experience in post-fire recovery, Perpetual Homes helps homeowners move forward with a clear plan, offering support with property evaluation, home design, permitting, and construction. The goal is to simplify the process and create modern, efficient homes built for long-term living.

Based in Danville, Perpetual Homes has delivered over 175 ADUs across California, managing property evaluation, design, permitting, prefab manufacturing, installation, and project coordination from start to finish.

Homeowners benefit from:

Dedicated project management from start to finish
Full permitting and due diligence support
Financing resources and guidance
High-quality designs from award-winning architects
A 7-year warranty for added peace of mind

Moving Forward After a Fire
Rebuilding after a fire is never easy, but the process can open the door to better design, improved efficiency, and long-term flexibility. Whether you are rebuilding a primary residence, adding an ADU, or exploring a multi-unit setup, having the right plan and the right team matters.

For homeowners in Southern California, there are also dedicated state and local resources available to help guide the rebuilding process. California’s official recovery site and local initiatives like LA Rises offer step-by-step support on insurance, permits, and rebuilding options, helping homeowners better understand what comes next.

Perpetual Homes helps California homeowners move forward with confidence by offering a streamlined, modern approach to rebuilding, alongside the resources needed to make informed decisions.

Ready to Rebuild with Confidence?

If you are still in the process of rebuilding or exploring additional options for your property, Perpetual Homes can help you move forward with a clearer path. From property evaluation and design to permitting and construction, support is available at any stage of the rebuild.

Explore your options, review floor plans, and see what is possible for your property. Contact Perpetual Homes to schedule a consultation and learn more about your next steps.

Sources and References:

California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services:
https://www.news.caloes.ca.gov/three-years-of-recovery-following-the-glass-fire/
https://www.news.caloes.ca.gov/one-year-after-los-angeles-firestorms-california-continues-all-of-government-community-recovery-efforts/

Governor Gavin Newsom: https://www.gov.ca.gov/2025/12/23/governor-and-la-rises-announce-new-online-resource-to-further-help-la-fire-survivors-navigate-rebuilding/

LA Rises: https://larises.org/resources/

Official California Website: https://www.ca.gov/lafires/help-for-you/rebuild-your-house/

Perpetual Homes ADU: https://www.perpetualhomesadu.com/contact-us

Who's Who in ADUs: Katherine Noe Anderson

Sun, 29 Mar 2026 18:54:58 GMT

Katherine is a Bay Area Re al Estate development veteran. She has a vast network of Real Estate resources and professionals. Katherine has been immensely involved in Bay Area Real Estate as an owner, developer, and investor for over 40 years. She earned a B.S. from the University of California at Berkeley.

Perpetual Homes, based in Danville, has been committed to offering sustainable turnkey backyard homes, or accessory dwelling units, since 2019. Its real estate team, homebuilding professionals, civil engineers, and architects - plus the founder's experience of more than 40 years, completely manages the project from the initial site inspection, permits, and site preparation to construction, utility connections, site cleanup, and final inspections. Move-in day comes faster than you think.

Perpetual Homes has delivered over 175 ADUs since they opened and is recognized as the fastest-growing privately owned ADU builder in Northern California successfully working with local jurisdictions, and creating financing options for their clients, Anderson says. Consider a renovation loan in lieu of a home equity line of credit. Perpetual Homes representatives have partnered with lenders that specialize in delivering the best financing options for ADUs.

"We are proud to be out their providing rooftops for families and keeping extended families together," she adds.

Ready to explore adding an ADU to your California property?

Prefab vs. Site-Built ADUs in California: What to Know

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 00:02:32 GMT

Before choosing an ADU design, it helps to understand how the home will actually be built. In California, most backyard homes fall into one of two categories: factory-built prefab construction or traditional site-built (stick-built) construction. While the finished homes may look similar, the building process behind them is very different.

Understanding these differences can help homeowners decide which option fits their property, timeline, and long-term goals. For many accessory dwelling unit (ADU), single-family detached (SFD), and multi-family (MF) projects, prefab construction offers advantages in efficiency, durability, and scheduling.

Perpetual Homes ADU works with homeowners across California as a full-service prefab home builder, guiding clients through design, permitting, manufacturing, and installation.

Factory-Built vs. Site-Built Housing Defined

According to the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD), Factory-Built Housing (FBH) refers to housing components that are constructed in a factory and transported to the building site for installation. These structures must comply with the California Building Standards Code, the same code used for traditional residential construction.

Factory-built housing differs from manufactured housing, which is built under federal HUD standards and typically installed in manufactured home communities.

Site-Built Homes are constructed entirely at the property where the home will stand. Every building component, including lumber, fasteners, and finishing materials, is delivered to the site and assembled outdoors.

While both methods can produce high-quality homes, the construction environment and workflow are very different.

What Is Prefab Construction?

A prefab or factory-built home is largely constructed inside a factory before being delivered to the property. After the structural framework is completed, much of the interior work is also finished indoors, including walls, cabinetry, flooring, plumbing, and electrical systems.

Once the sections arrive at the property, they are placed on a prepared foundation and assembled. Builders then connect utilities and complete any final finishing work.

One of the key advantages of prefab construction is the ability to move multiple parts of the project forward at the same time. Because the home is built in the factory while the property is being prepared, the overall timeline can be significantly reduced. Katherine Anderson, founder of Perpetual Homes, explains, “When the home is being built in the factory while the site work is happening at the same time, it creates a much more efficient process for homeowners.

That efficiency also extends to inspections. Much of the construction is reviewed during the factory build, which means fewer on-site inspections are required, typically around 3. As Anderson notes, “This helps keep the project moving forward with fewer delays, and in many cases, can reduce overall construction time by up to 40% compared to traditional building methods.”

Prefab homes are also engineered to withstand transport from the factory to the property, which can result in strong structural framing once installed.

What Is a Site-Built (Stick-Built) Home?

A site-built home, often called stick-built construction, follows the traditional method most people are familiar with. The home is built piece-by-piece outdoors, beginning with the foundation and continuing through framing, roofing, utilities, insulation, and interior finishing.

Because construction takes place outside, materials such as lumber and drywall may be exposed to weather conditions during much of the building process.

Potential Drawbacks of Site-Built Construction

Traditional site-built construction is still widely used, but it can come with a few challenges compared to factory-built homes. Because the house is built outdoors, materials are often exposed to the weather during much of the construction process. Rain or moisture can affect framing and other materials before the structure is fully enclosed.

Site-built projects also tend to take longer. Each stage of construction happens one step at a time, and delays can occur if weather conditions change, materials arrive late, or subcontractor schedules shift. As a result, timelines can be less predictable, which can make it harder for homeowners to know exactly when their project will be finished.

The Future of Homebuilding is Prefab

Homebuilding is evolving, and prefab is leading the way. Offering high-quality homes at an affordable price.

At Perpetual Homes, our factory-built, wood-framed prefab homes combine durability, speed, and design flexibility. From ADUs to multi-family and single-family projects, prefab lets you build smarter, faster, and with more confidence:

Faster Timeline: Factory construction and site preparation happen simultaneously to reduce delays.

Built Indoors for Quality: Constructed in a controlled factory environment, protected from weather and moisture.

Durable Materials: Precision-built with consistent quality and long-term performance in mind.

Lower Environmental Impact: Efficient material use and reduced waste.

Customized Design Options: Flexible, highly customizable ADU and single-family detached (SFD) home designs with floor plans, layouts, and finishes tailored to your vision.

Streamlined Inspections: Fewer on-site inspections compared to traditional construction due to factory-based building.

Factory construction can also improve efficiency and reduce waste. As William Anderson, Project Manager at Perpetual Homes, the state’s largest private ADU builder, explains, “Our building process incorporates sustainable practices such as engineered lumber for efficient material use, low-VOC adhesives and paints, formaldehyde-free insulation, and systems designed to reuse or recycle a large portion of construction waste.” These practices support both building performance and healthier indoor environments.

Perpetual Homes ADU: A Full-Service Prefab Builder

Perpetual Homes ADU helps California homeowners navigate the entire process, including property evaluation, design, prefab manufacturing, installation, and project coordination for ADUs, single-family homes, and multi-family projects.

The team focuses on helping homeowners create flexible backyard housing for multigenerational living, rental income, or long-term housing solutions. Prefab construction plays a central role in that approach, offering a building method that combines efficiency, durability, and consistent construction quality.

Exploring Your ADU & SFD Home Options

Choosing between prefab and site-built construction depends on your property, timeline, and overall goals. For many homeowners, prefab construction offers clear advantages, especially when looking for a faster timeline, streamlined construction, and more predictable outcomes.

If you’re exploring adding an ADU or building a single-family home, learning more about prefab construction is a good place to start. The team at Perpetual Homes ADU can walk you through your options, answer questions, and help you determine the best path forward for your property.

Sources and References:

California State Board of Equalization: https://www.boe.ca.gov

California Proposition 13: https://assessor.lacounty.gov/real-estate-toolkit/proposition-13

IRS Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit: https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/energy-efficient-home-improvement-credit

RenoFi ADU Financing Information: https://www.renofi.com

Perpetual Homes ADU Planning Process: https://www.perpetualhomesadu.com/10-step-process-details/step%205

Perpetual Homes ADU Financing Page: https://www.perpetualhomesadu.com/financing

Better Business Bureau: https://www.bbb.org

Perpetual Homes BBB Listing: https://www.bbb.org/us/ca/danville/profile/accessory-dwelling-unit-adu-builder/perpetual-homes-adu-1116-970151/#sealclick

Will Building an ADU Raise My Property Taxes in California?

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 02:49:26 GMT

A Homeowner’s Guide to
ADU Costs, Financing, and Energy Savings

Many California homeowners start thinking about an accessory dwelling unit for practical reasons. Sometimes it's space for aging parents, adult children, or a quiet home space. Other times, it's the opportunity to create rental income while adding value to the property. Very quickly, though, the same questions come up. "Will adding an ADU raise property taxes?" And, "How do people actually pay for the project?"

At Perpetual Homes ADU, these are conversations we have with homeowners throughout California every week. Understanding the financial side of building a backyard home early helps people make confident decisions before moving into the design and permitting stages.

Will an ADU Trigger a Full Property Tax Reassessment?

One of the biggest concerns homeowners raise is whether adding an ADU will cause the county to reassess their entire property at the current market value. In most cases, that is not how the system works.

The California State Board of Equalization provides additional guidance on property tax assessments and improvements here: https://www.boe.ca.gov

For example, if a home currently has an assessed value of $500,000 and a new ADU improvement is assessed at $200,00, the county may adjust the property's assessed value to approximately $700,000. The original home's tax base generally remains intact, while the ADU is added as a new improvement. Property tax assessments are determined by the local county assessor.

Because property tax rules can vary by county and situation, homeowners should confirm details with their local county assessor or a qualified tax professional when evaluating a project.

How Homeowners Are Financing ADUs in California

Once homeowners understand the property tax side, the next question is usually about funding the project.

Some people use home equity. Others explore renovation loans or construction financing. Over the past several years, the lending landscape for ADUs has expanded significantly. Many lenders now understand ADU construction and offer financing programs specifically designed for these projects.

With Perpetual Homes' extensive development experience, we encourage homeowners to contact our team for a free consultation to add substantial value to their property. We regularly connect homeowners with lenders who specialize in ADU construction financing.

Lenders like RenoFi offer loans that consider the future value of the property once the ADU is completed. For example, if the projected value of the home after construction is $550,000, a lender offering up to 95% loan-to-value could borrow up to $522,500—giving you $210,000+ for ADU construction, depending on the borrower's financial qualifications.

At Perpetual Homes ADU, we try to make this part easier to understand early in the process. During the project's planning stage, we'll walk through realistic costs , possible financing options , and how homeowners typically structure their projects.

Cost clarity is everything, and a detailed estimate grounded in your lot's realities gives you a financial picture before you commit. Working with lenders familiar with ADU construction can help homeowners evaluate funding options and plan the project budget more accurately.

Energy-Efficient ADUs and Potential Incentives

Energy efficiency is another factor that can affect the long-term cost of owning an ADU.

At Perpetual Homes ADU, energy performance is built into the design of every prefab ADU, with many homes constructed to Green building standards. The homes are engineered for efficient use of materials, and approximately 80% of construction waste is reused or recycled during the building process.

Construction materials and systems are selected with efficiency and indoor air quality in mind. This includes the use of engineered lumber, low-VOC adhesives and paints, and formaldehyde-free insulation. HVAC systems feature sealed and tested ducting, and homes are designed with a mechanical fresh air ventilation system to support consistent indoor air circulation.

Water efficiency is also part of the design approach, with features such as high-efficiency toilets and efficient plumbing distribution systems in many units. Together, these building practices support energy performance while helping reduce material waste and long-term operating costs.

These types of upgrades can help lower long-term utility costs and may also qualify for federal incentives such as the Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit, administered by the IRS.

With California continuing to modernize its energy grid and maintain strong solar and efficiency standards, these features are becoming increasingly important. Smart HVAC systems, efficient plumbing, and well-insulated construction help create homes that stay comfortable while using less energy. In many ways, the standards California is pushing toward today reflect the energy-efficient building practices Perpetual Homes has been incorporating into its ADU designs from the start.

ADUs as Housing and Long-Term Property Value

For many families, the financial side is only part of the story. Backyard homes can support multigenerational living, provide space for aging parents or adult children, or generate rental income to help offset the cost of building.

Because ADUs create flexible housing options on existing residential lots, they have become an increasingly common strategy for homeowners adapting to California’s housing market.

Why Builder Experience Matters

As interest in ADUs has grown, so has the number of companies offering ADU services. When homeowners begin exploring ADU projects, experience can make a real difference. Building in California often involves navigating zoning rules, permitting, and local approval processes that vary from city to city. Working with a builder who understands those steps can help make the process more predictable from planning through construction.

Perpetual Homes ADU is one of the largest privately owned, family-run prefab ADU builders serving homeowners across California, backed by more than 40 years of Northern California development experience through founder Katherine Anderson. Over the years, she and her team have worked through every phase of the process, from site feasibility and permitting to design, construction, and final completion.

That experience helps guide homeowners through the process while focusing on homes that are thoughtfully designed, well-built, and completed efficiently. Perpetual Homes ADU is also a BBB-listed company

Perpetual Homes ADU that works with homeowners across the state to design and build backyard homes that support multigenerational living, rental opportunities, and flexible housing solutions.

Exploring ADU Options for Your Property

When considering an ADU, understanding property taxes, financing options, and energy efficiency early in the process can reduce uncertainty and enable better project planning. Speaking with experienced builders, local assessors, and qualified financial professionals can help you evaluate how an ADU project may work for your property and goals.

If you're interested in learning more about the planning process or financing options can review the Perpetual Homes ADU resources online or speak with our team to better understand what building an ADU on your property could look like.

Sources and References:

California State Board of Equalization: https://www.boe.ca.gov

California Proposition 13: https://assessor.lacounty.gov/real-estate-toolkit/proposition-13

IRS Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit: https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/energy-efficient-home-improvement-credit

RenoFi ADU Financing Information: https://www.renofi.com

Perpetual Homes ADU Planning Process: https://www.perpetualhomesadu.com/10-step-process-details/step%205

Perpetual Homes ADU Financing Page: https://www.perpetualhomesadu.com/financing

Better Business Bureau: https://www.bbb.org

Perpetual Homes BBB Listing: https://www.bbb.org/us/ca/danville/profile/accessory-dwelling-unit-adu-builder/perpetual-homes-adu-1116-970151/#sealclick

Perpetual Homes Has Answers for the Housing Crisis

Sun, 01 Mar 2026 16:00:39 GMT

Across California and beyond, the housing crisis is no longer abstract, it’s personal. Families are doing everything they can to support aging parents nearby, help adult children priced out of rent or buying their homes, stay financially stable, and ensure seniors can age in place without isolation.

In backyards from Monterey to Sonoma, a new solution has emerged — the Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU).

These small but fully independent homes are transforming the way Californians think about family, finances, and the future. With just a few hun- dred square feet, an ADU can create a safe place for a parent, an affordable launchpad for a young adult, or a reliable stream of rental income that eases mortgage pressure.

To understand how this movement is reshaping neighborhoods — and what actually happens behind the scenes — I sat down with William Anderson, Project Manager at Perpetual Homes, the state’s largest private ADU builder.

When asked how homeowners typically arrive at the decision to build an ADU, Anderson didn’t hesitate. “In almost every case, it starts with wanting to help someone — a parent, a child, a grandchild, or even themselves,” he said. “People don’t come to us because they want more square footage. They come to us because they want housing options.”

Does an ADU Increase Property Value in California? Real Life Scenarios

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 19:33:39 GMT

Equity, Flexibility, and Long-Term Stability

Adding an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is no longer just a niche trend in California. It has become a widely embraced way to address our housing needs, a key piece of the state’s housing strategy, and a practical decision for homeowners looking for more equity, flexibility, and a little more stability for the future.

But how do the numbers actually work? Appraisers generally evaluate ADUs based on local market demand, rental income potential, and comparable sales rather than solely on construction costs. Meanwhile, statewide housing data from the California Department of Housing and Community Development shows continued growth in ADU permits as cities implement expanded state laws, including recent updates under California’s 2026 housing framework , which provides even more clarity and flexibility for homeowners.

Every ADU adds value in its own way, and the return looks different for every homeowner, depending on how it is used. Below are real-world scenarios that show how California homeowners are turning these units into real property value.

Multigenerational Living

Rising housing costs continue to challenge younger Californians, and for many families, finding an affordable place to call home has become a central issue across the state.

For some families, the solution is multigenerational housing. We see more parents building an ADU so their adult children can afford to stay in California. Instead of moving out of state to find a lower cost of living, they stay close to family, community, and their careers.

From a property value perspective, this creates long-term stability. The family preserves ownership of a high-value asset while adding a second legal unit to the lot. In today's market, homes with ADUs often attract a much broader buyer interest because they offer the rare flexibility to house extended family or generate rental income down the road.

Katherine Anderson, founder of Perpetual Homes ADU, shares: “We create an opportunity for the next generation to stay in California and stay on their parents’ property. That flexibility matters.”

Aging in Place with a Plan

Aging in place looks different than it did twenty years ago. Instead of moving to assisted living, more California families are restructuring their existing property to create a lifelong housing solution.

A common strategy is to build an ADU for an adult child to live in, allowing them to provide nearby care for an aging parent in the main home. Over time, families often "switch houses", allowing the older generation to move into the smaller single-level ADU, while the adult child moves into the main home to raise their own family.

This approach increases the livability and long-term usability of the property. It adds a layer of flexibility that holds value over decades. When the time comes to sell, the property stands out because it offers two functional dwellings, each with independent utility connections and entrances, in compliance with California’s updated ADU regulations.

With state laws continuing to streamline approvals and clarify development standards through 2026 and beyond, aging-in-place strategies are more feasible, and finacially sound, than ever before.

Building for Community Impact

One Perpetual Homes client chose to build a detached prefab ADU with a specific purpose in mind: supporting someone essential to the community.

Katherine Anderson often frames it simply: “We had a client build an ADU on their property specifically for a local teacher as a way to give back to the community.”

Even with a focus on impact, the investment still translates into significant equity. From a valuation standpoint, the property gained a fully permitted second dwelling with an income history. Even with modest rent, the presence of a legal ADU dramatically increases market appeal. In California's high-cost regions, today's buyers increasingly value this kind of flexibility and housing options.

Empty Nesters Funding Travel

Another couple approached Perpetual Homes after their children moved out. They wanted to travel more and decided to install a backyard prefab ADU to help generate steady rental income.

The property has become more than just a primary residence and has evolved into a dual-income asset. The rental income supports their travel plans, while the addition of a permitted ADU strengthens the property’s overall value and long-term market appeal.

Homes with built-in income potential are often viewed differently in the marketplace. Even buyers who do not intend to rent recognize the flexibility that a second dwelling provides.

For this couple, the ADU was less about squeezing out maximum short-term profit and more about designing a property that supports the lifestyle they want now, while building long-term equity for the future.

Hybrid Use Today, Rental Tomorrow

Not every ADU begins as a rental. Some start as dedicated home offices, art studios, or guest houses. The real value lies in the power of optionality.

A homeowner might use the space personally for the first five years. Later, if financial needs or life circumstances change, the unit can easily be transitioned into a long-term rental unit. This flexibility has strong appeal in today’s market, where buyers are specifically looking for adaptable properties.

Appraisers consider what is known as the "highest and best use." A legally permitted prefab ADU creates additional potential use categories, which can positively influence valuation compared to a single-purpose structure like a standard shed or unpermitted bonus room.

Long Term Equity vs Short Term Cash Flow

It’s tempting to evaluate ADUs only through monthly rent projections. However, real property value is often shaped just as much by long-term equity growth as it is by immediate cash flow.

Adding a high-quality prefab ADU increases total livable square footage, diversifies your income options, and aligns the property with California’s evolving housing landscape. As demand for flexible housing continues to rise, properties with fully legal ADUs are positioned to stand out in any resale scenario.

An ADU is not a one-size-fits-all investment. It is a strategic decision shaped by family goals, community values, and future planning. As you consider what comes next for your property, the better question might not be “What is the immediate return?” but “What future do we want this home to support?”

For Many California Homeowners, Backyard ADUs Create Opportunity

Ready to explore adding an ADU to your California property? Contact Perpetual Homes, one of the largest privately-owned, family-run ADU builders in California, to discuss your options.

References

California Department of Housing and Community Development – Accessory Dwelling Units https://www.hcd.ca.gov/building-standards/adu

Is Your California Backyard Ready for an ADU? Zoning, Lot Size, and Access Explained

Tue, 10 Feb 2026 02:18:32 GMT

Interest in Accessory Dwelling Units continues to grow across California, but one of the first questions homeowners ask is: “Can my property actually support an ADU?”

The answer depends less on design preferences and more on property factors like zoning, lot size, access, utilities, and fire requirements. Understanding these aspects early can save time, prevent redesigns, and make the planning process more predictable and enjoyable.

This guide shares core property considerations that determine ADU feasibility and explains how working with Perpetual Homes ADU can help homeowners evaluate their property before moving into design conversations.

Start with Zoning: State Law Sets the Baseline

Every ADU product begins with zoning. California has established statewide ADU standards through legislation designed to increase housing availability. However, local jurisdictions can still play a role in how those standards are applied.

Under state law, most single-family and multifamily residential properties are eligible for at least one ADU, and in many cases more. While local codes affect details like setbacks, height limits, and parking, they cannot prohibit ADUs that meet state requirements. This is why reviewing both state standards and local zoning together matters.

“Local barriers to construction are systematically being removed to make it easier and more flexible for property owners to create additional housing,” says Katherine Anderson, Perpetual Homes founder and managing partner.

In cities like Sonoma, Santa Rosa, Danville, and Sebastopol, local planning departments apply state ADU law a little differently. Reviewing statewide standards through the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) ADU Handbook and local planning department websites, then clarifying how those standards are implemented at the city or county level.

Lot Size: Smaller Lots Can Still Work

There is no universal minimum lot size for ADUs under California law. What matters is whether the unit can meet objective standards like setbacks, height, and access.

Lot shape, slope, existing structures, and utility locations often matter more than total square footage. Many smaller lots can support:

Detached backyard ADUs
Attached ADUs
Garage or accessory structure conversions

Early evaluation helps set realistic expectations before design decisions are made.

Access, Utilities, and Fire Requirements

Getting from the street to the ADU matters more than most people expect. Fire departments need a clear access path, and that same path often determines how utilities are brought in and how construction equipment reaches the site.

If access is limited, even a well-planned ADU may need changes later in the process. Looking at this early helps prevent delays during permitting.

ADUs also need standard utility connections for water, sewer, gas, and electricity. Fire safety rules, set by local fire departments, can affect building materials, spacing from existing structures, and emergency access. These details vary by location, so it’s best to review them before design work begins.

Using the Perpetual Homes 10-Step Process

To simplify early planning, Perpetual Homes offers an easy 10-Step ADU Process that guides homeowners from initial feasibility through construction and delivery. This process is designed to find any constraints there might be early, so homeowners can make informed decisions with clarity.

Why Early Property Review Matters

The biggest advantage of working with Perpetual Homes ADU at the beginning is certainty. During our Complimentary 30-minute Virtual Assessment , a team member will help homeowners assess their property by reviewing zoning and overlays so that the ADU model that best fits their space, goals, and budget.

This step is important because a smart evaluation prevents false starts, wasted time, and designs that don’t fit your lot, budget, or goals.

Instead of asking “Can we make this work?” late in the process, homeowners start with a clear understanding of what to expect from day one.

Is Your Lot Ready?

If you are asking, “Can my property support an ADU?” you are already on the right path. Reviewing these basics is the smartest way to move forward with confidence. Contact Perpetual Homes ADU to review your property and understand your options.

How ADUs and Multi-Family Lots Can Support Families Today

Sat, 10 Jan 2026 00:15:38 GMT

Multigenerational Living in California

Multigenerational living is becoming an increasingly practical solution for many California families. Rising housing costs, an aging population, and adult children staying closer to home are pushing homeowners to rethink how their properties can better support their extended family.

Accessory Dwelling Units, commonly known as ADUs, have emerged as one of the most effective ways to create flexible living arrangements without sacrificing independence or privacy.

ADUs offer an alternative that traditional single-family homes often cannot. A well-designed ADU allows family members to live nearby while maintaining separate entrances, kitchens, and living spaces. This setup reduces daily stress while preserving dignity and autonomy for everyone involved.

“I’ve seen how difficult it is for families to stay rooted in California given today’s housing market,” Katherine Anderson says. “An ADU gives them options — whether that means welcoming a parent home, creating space for the next generation, or securing long-term flexibility. It’s about making housing work for people again.”

Perpetual Homes is designed to make that process simpler. Founded in 2019 by Katherine Anderson, a Bay Area resident with more than 40 years of residential development expertise, the family-run Danville company has grown into California’s largest private ADU builder. By combining quality craftsmanship with smart design and efficient delivery, Perpetual Homes helps families create housing solutions that feel attainable.

Why ADUs Work for Multigenerational Households

ADUs are especially suited to multigenerational living because they can be tailored to specific family needs. Some families prioritize single-level layouts and accessibility features for aging parents. Others focus on compact, efficient designs for adult children who need an affordable place to live while building savings or caring for young kids.

Privacy is often a key concern. Detached ADUs allow families to share a property without sharing walls or daily routines. This physical separation helps preserve personal space while keeping loved ones close enough for support, childcare, or shared meals when it makes sense.

ADUs can also evolve over time. A unit that initially houses a parent may later become a rental, a guest space, or a home office. That flexibility makes ADUs a long-term planning tool rather than a short-term fix.

Expanded State Laws Are Changing What’s Possible

California has made significant updates to state housing laws that make ADUs easier to build and more widely available. These changes are especially meaningful for multigenerational families who need practical housing options now.

One of the most important shifts is the expanded allowance for ADUs on multifamily lots. In many cases, property owners can now add multiple detached ADUs to a single multifamily property. This creates new opportunities for families who own duplexes or small apartment buildings to house relatives while remaining within state guidelines.

Another notable development is how some cities are using new state authority to expand ownership options. Sebastopol recently became the first city in Sonoma County to adopt AB 1033, a state law that allows ADUs to be sold separately from the primary home as a condominium. This approach gives homeowners the ability to create separate titles for an ADU and the main residence, creating new opportunities for first-time buyers, downsizing seniors, and families planning for long-term flexibility.

Together, these changes reflect a broader effort to increase housing supply and improve affordability. By reducing barriers, simplifying approvals, and expanding how ADUs can be built, used, and even owned, California is giving families greater flexibility to adapt their properties to real-life needs.

“We recently worked with a multigenerational family in San Bruno where the adult children had their first baby and wanted to stay nearby,” Anderson shares. “We helped them build an ADU on the parents’ property. It became a win for everyone. The grandparents are close to the grandchild, and the family can support each other as needs change.”

New Models from Perpetual Homes

In response to these changes, Perpetual Homes has expanded its offerings to include the new Glacier duplex model , compact studios , and larger 3-bedroom layouts designed for today’s housing needs. These models support multigenerational living by allowing families to share a property while maintaining privacy and predictable construction timelines.

“We’re creating opportunities for the next generation to stay in California by building on family property,” Anderson says. “We love working with families who want to age in place, whether that means helping parents remain in their home or creating a path for adult children to live nearby. In many cases, a son or daughter may live in the ADU today, with the flexibility to move into the main home later as needs change.”

Planning Ahead with Confidence

Multigenerational living works best when it is planned thoughtfully. Understanding zoning rules, unit limits, and design options early can help families avoid surprises and make informed decisions. California’s updated ADU framework gives homeowners more flexibility than ever, but each property still has unique considerations.

Working with an experienced team can help families navigate these choices and align them with long-term goals. Whether the priority is caring for loved ones, creating stability for adult children, or building future flexibility into a property, ADUs offer a practical path forward.

Ready to see how an ADU could work for your multigenerational household? Contact Perpetual Homes today.

References

California Department of Housing and Community Development – ADU Program and State Standards
https://www.hcd.ca.gov/building-standards/adu

State of California – Gov. Newsom signs into law groundbreaking reforms to build more housing, boost affordability
https://www.gov.ca.gov

A Practical Guide to Building an ADU in California

Fri, 02 Jan 2026 00:09:28 GMT

A Fresh Start for California Homeowners

As a new year begins, many California homeowners are reevaluating how their property can better support their lives, families, and long-term plans. For some, that means creating space for aging parents or adult children. For others, it means adding rental income or increasing property value. Accessory Dwelling Units, commonly known as ADUs, continue to be one of the most flexible ways to do all of the above.

This guide is designed to be a resource for homeowners who are curious about ADUs, whether you are actively planning or simply starting the conversation. There’s rarely a wrong time to explore your options. Learning what’s possible, understanding current regulations, and talking with a Perpetual Homes team member early can make the entire process smoother when you’re ready to move forward.

What California Homeowners Should Know Before Building an ADU

ADUs are self-contained residential units built on existing properties. In recent years, California has made consistent efforts to reduce barriers to ADU development, making them more accessible across the state. Prefabricated ADUs can be added to excess land on single-family lots, multi-family properties, churches, commercial properties, and government-owned properties.

Before moving forward, homeowners should understand a few foundational points:

Local zoning and lot conditions still matter, even with statewide ADU laws.
Utility connections, setbacks, and access requirements vary by city.
ADUs can be used for family housing, long-term rentals, or personal use. Short-term rentals may be restricted in many areas.
Prefab ADUs offer a different construction path than traditional builds, with more predictability in cost and timelines.

Starting with clear information helps avoid surprises later and allows homeowners to plan realistically.

Why It’s a Smart Time to Start the Conversation

The beginning of the year often brings new goals, financial planning, and conversations about the future. For homeowners, it is a natural moment to ask how a property can work harder or more flexibly over time.

Starting the ADU conversation early with a Complimentary Virtual Assessment does not mean committing to immediate construction. It means learning what is possible. Early discussions allow you to:

Find out if your property is a good candidate for a backyard ADU.
Understand current California state and local regulations.
Explore layout options and choose from a wide selection of highly customizable designs.
Get a ballpark estimate to create an ADU plan for your long-term family or financial goals.

Even if construction happens later, we’ll help you start smart, and early planning will lead to better decisions.

Looking Ahead at California ADU Updates for 2026

California continues to refine ADU regulations to support housing availability and affordability. The 2026 California law updates build on recent trends, emphasizing flexibility, expanded allowances, and clearer guidelines for homeowners.

Statewide guidance from the California Department of Housing and Community Development highlights ongoing efforts to streamline approvals and reduce local barriers. These changes can affect unit size limits, parking requirements, and how multiple units may be added on certain properties.

Because updates are ongoing, it is important to understand how new rules apply at both the state and local levels. Perpetual Homes regularly shares updates through its newsletter and can help homeowners interpret what these changes mean for a specific property.

How Prefab ADUs Simplify the Building Process

One of the most significant shifts in ADU construction is the rise of off-site, prefab building methods. Unlike traditional construction that happens entirely on your property, prefab ADUs are largely built in a controlled environment and then delivered and installed on-site.

For many homeowners, prefab offers many advantages:

More predictable pricing
Reduced on-site construction time
Consistent quality control
Less disruption to the main home

Perpetual Homes offers a full catalog of customizable Prefab ADUs, which makes the process more efficient and easier to manage, especially for homeowners balancing work, family, and daily life.

The Long-Term Benefits of Building an ADU

“An ADU gives homeowners options,” shares Perpetual Homes founder Katherine Anderson. “Whether that means welcoming a parent home, creating space for the next generation, or securing financial flexibility. It’s about making housing work for people again.”

ADUs are not a one-size-fits-all solution, but their benefits are broad:

Additional living space for guests, caregivers, or home offices
Multigenerational housing that keeps family close while maintaining privacy
Rental income potential that can offset mortgage costs or support retirement plans
Increased property value through added livable square footage

According to resources from the California Department of Housing and Community Development , ADUs also support broader housing goals by making better use of existing residential land.

Start with Information, Then Take the Next Step

Building an ADU is a significant decision, but it does not have to feel overwhelming. The most important first step is having an informed conversation with professionals who understand California regulations, local permitting, and modern construction methods.

Whether you are exploring ideas or ready to move forward, Perpetual Homes serves as a resource for California homeowners navigating the ADU process. Reach out to learn how Perpetual Homes can help you with the next steps or book a free consultation today.

For homeowners looking ahead, an ADU is not just a building project. It is a long-term investment in flexibility, housing security, and the future of your property.

References

California Department of Housing and Community Development – ADU Program and State Standards
https://www.hcd.ca.gov/building-standards/adu

State of California – Gov. Newsom signs into law groundbreaking reforms to build more housing, boost affordability
https://www.gov.ca.gov

New 2026 California ADU Laws

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 00:01:13 GMT

Stay Up to Date on California's 2026 ADU Laws

California’s 2026 ADU laws continue to expand housing flexibility, making it easier for homeowners and multifamily property owners to add accessory dwelling units with fewer barriers, clearer rules, and more predictable outcomes. These updates support multigenerational living, long-term affordability, and smarter use of existing residential property across California.

New 2026 California ADU Laws

Establish the California Department of Housing and Community Development to as the enforcement authority on ADU rules, clarify some rules and giving HCD a sledgehammer to stop anti-housing rules established by local municipalities!

SB 9 (2025) - HCD enforcement. Gives HCD additionally enforcement over local ADU ordinances. If municipalities do not submit the ordinances to HCD within 60 days, or don’t respond to HCD comments within 30 days, then the municipality may NOT enforce their local ADU rules and must revert to State standards.

AB 1208 – Mandatory 10-day inspection guidelines for municipalities. Introduces mandatory fines when HCD or the Attorney General has wanted the agency before. $50,000 fines on the municipality per violation. Repeat violations can lead to mandatory 5x the fine.

AB 35 – establishes strict timelines and a private plan-check option for small residential projects. If the municipality estimates they cannot review the submitted plans within 30 days, you can hire a private professional provide who is certified as a residential plans examiner. The provider checks the plans and submits a report to the municipality. The municipality has 10 days to act or it is automatically deemed compliant and the permit deemed approved. You can also self-certify, but then you’re liable.
AB 1154 – removes owner occupancy requirement for JADUs. For homeowners who already have a JADU and have a lien on title, you can work with the County Recorder to remove that from the title. The bill also sets a minimum 30-day rental term for JADUs – no AirBnBing of ADUs!

SB 543 - ADU/JADU Parity. This bill clarifies and outlaws local anti-ADU rules and gives HCD more enforcement authority, especially over JADUs. Now local municipalities may not charge Impact Fees or School Fees for JADUs. Most important, the bills codifies HCD’s interpretation of State law that allows for 1 detached ADU, 1 interior conversion and 1 JADU at every single-family zoned property, regardless of occupancy. In short, now even rental homes may have up to 4 total units regardless of location.

AB 1294 - requires HCD to create a standard permit application that every city and county must accept. This will help builders standardize the process, decrease waiting periods and allow HCD to track violations.

AB 920 – Mandates a centralized portal for submitting housing permits at the municipality. AB 609 – Exempts housing projects located in urban areas from environmental review.

AB 357 – Exempts student and faculty housing from Coastal Commission review. This is hopefully the beginning of eroding the Coastal Commission’s opposition to housing.

AB 1061 – Makes it easier to build housing in Historic districts.

SB 315 - Prohibits municipalities from overcharging on Park Fees.

AB 782 – Removes double-bonding requirements for developers of residential developments.

AB 818 – Fast-tracks the rebuilding of housing after a disaster, with stricter timeframes and processes. This should help the rebuilding process after the Los Angeles Fires. (proud to have been a co-writer on this!)

Please email, call, or visit our website for more details:

Email: perpetualhomesadu@gmail.com

Phone: +1 (925) 980-2351

ADU Catalog: build.perpetualhomesadu.com

Dealer’s License #: 1557865

A simple, scalable solution to California’s housing crisis, one backyard at a time

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 18:47:12 GMT

Across California, families are increasingly turning to ADUs to solve today’s housing challenges, whether it’s caring for an aging parent, giving adult children a more affordable start, or creating supplemental rental income.

Perpetual Homes is making that process simple. Founded in 2019 by Katherine Anderson—a Bay Area resident with more than 40 years of residential development expertise— the family-run, Danville-based company has quickly grown into California’s largest private ADU builder. Known for quality craftsmanship, smart design, and efficient delivery, Perpetual Homes is helping families like Larry’s stay connected while building long-term value in their properties.

“I’ve seen how difficult it has become for families to stay rooted in California’s housing market,” Anderson says. “An ADU gives them options—whether that means welcoming a parent home, creating space for the next generation, or securing financial flexibility. It’s about making housing work for people again.”

Perpetual Homes Offers Solution to Housing Crisis

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 12:02:22 GMT

Larry T. has deep roots in Lafayette. He is raising his own family in the same home where he grew up, while his parents retired in nearby Rossmoor. When his father passed away, Larry was determined to keep his mother close and surrounded by loved ones —but without uprooting her from the community she knew.

The solution was an Accessory Dwelling Unit. Working with Danville-based Perpetual Homes, Larry built a modern, comfortable ADU right in his own backyard. His mother now has her own private space, complete with kitchen, living area, and all the amenities she needs, while remaining just steps away from family dinners, grandchildren’s laughter, and the rhythm of daily life.

For Larry, it was more than just a construction project — it gave him peace of mind. Larry’s story reflects a growing trend. Across California, families are increasingly turning to ADUs to solve today’s housing challenges — whether it’s caring for an aging parent, giving adult children an affordable start, or generating supplemental rental income. Perpetual Homes is making that process simple.

Perpetual Homes balances affordability with customization, high-quality craftsmanship using eco-friendly materials. “Our mission is to rethink how Californians live,” Anderson said. “An ADU isn’t just extra square footage — it’s a pathway to freedom, flexibility, and a more sustainable future.”

Casita Coalition In Our Backyard

Thu, 01 May 2025 16:09:33 GMT

Casita Coalition fosters resilient communities by providing diverse housing solutions and opportunities for people of all ages and stages of life, empowering neighborhoods to thrive.

Perpetual Homes is a Premier Member of the Casita Coalition, joining a community of housing professionals, policymakers, advocates, and experts committed to supporting critical work to grow the middle housing ecosystem.

Bay Area builders, homeowners accuse PG&E of holding up ADUs

Tue, 15 Apr 2025 18:06:59 GMT

The difficulty of dealing with PG&E is what surprises homeowners putting in a granny flat, said Katherine Anderson, founder of Danville-based Perpetual Homes, which has built more than 175 ADUs in the Bay Area.

Some of her company’s projects have been delayed by as much as a year due to PG&E requirements, she said.

“We want to move our clients into ADUs and we’re sitting around waiting for PG&E,” Anderson told the Chronicle. “A lot of times we just find ourselves apologizing over and over to the client about how long PG&E is taking.”

PG&E is delaying ADU construction in California, builders and homeowners say

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 17:52:05 GMT

"Want to build an accessory dwelling unit in California? If you need help from Pacific Gas and Electric Co., be prepared to wait, builders and homeowners say." The San Francisco Chronicle reports...

Perpetual Homes leading the way Californians turn to ADUs amid housing crisis J6

Thu, 27 Feb 2025 17:08:48 GMT

As Bay Area housing options shrink, ADUs’ popularity grows

Want to easily enhance your property value? Consider hiring Perpetual Homes to install an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) in your backyard.

Perpetual Homes’ eco-friendly, high-quality designs are made from premium, long-lasting materials and the company handles everything — from permits, to building, to installation.

Prefabricated ADUs can be added to excess land on single-family lots, multi-family properties, churches, commercial properties, and government-owned properties. In short, Perpetual Homes is the easiest, fastest, and most efficient way to build homes.

How California’s new ADU law transforms multifamily real estate

Mon, 09 Dec 2024 19:21:10 GMT

With SB 1211, California sets an example for the nation by empowering owners to expand affordable housing options.

Perpetual Homes is leading the way as Californians turn to ADUs amid housing crisis

Mon, 18 Nov 2024 17:50:57 GMT

Experience affordable multigenerational living at its finest. Perpetual Homes builds single-family, duplex homes and accessory dwelling units. In response to the housing challenges faced by Californians due to low inventory, high prices and increasing interest rates, ADUs have emerged as a creative solution. Leading the way in providing sustainable turnkey backyard homes is Danville-based Perpetual Homes, a company committed to enhancing property values and addressing the demand for housing solutions.

Since 2019, Perpetual Homes' experienced team have been actively involved in delivering eco-friendly and sustainable ADUs throughout the Bay Area. From initial site inspection and permits to construction, utility connections, site cleanup, and final inspections, the company manages every aspect of the project.

Founder and President Katherine Anderson's vision revolves around factory-built, award-winning designs using sustainable materials. Recognizing the housing shortage issue, Anderson emphasizes that by some estimates, California is 3.5 million housing units short, contributing to the overall national deficit of around 6 million homes. More households have been formed than homes built over the past decade.

California accounts for about half of the national shortage of homes. California's new ADU laws aim to address the housing deficit by allowing the construction of units up to 1,000 to 1,200 square feet, reducing setbacks to 4 feet, waiving certain permitting requirements, eliminating owner-occupancy restrictions, reduced development fees for units under 750 square feet, and implementing a streamlined 60-day review and approval process. Multi-family properties are also eligible for up to two detached ADUs. Under Senate Bill 9, homeowners are allowed to build up to four additional units on their existing lots.

They can add an additional single-family home to their property and even split the lot. SB 9 allows fourplexes in areas that previously only allowed one home and allows homeowners to divide their property into two lots. In California, 1 out of 5 residential building permits are for ADUs.
Perpetual Homes offers a very desirable solution: Prefab 1,200 square-foot ADUs at a mid-project cost of $300,000, providing an affordable alternative to the high prices of newly built townhomes in the region, which can exceed $900,000. These ADUs not only contribute to the vision of affordable living in the Bay Area but also enable families to access top-rated schools. Perpetual Homes also offers entry-level ADU starting-home sizes - the 500 square-foot Piedmont plan - which provides for multigenerational living, starting in the mid-$200,000s *all-in." Our latest plan offers duplex living.

The company manages all aspects of the ADU project, from budget creation and contracts to plans, permitting. prefab home manufacturing, on-site construction coordination, utility connections, and turkey move-in services. The construction process is designed to minimize disruption to residents of the primary dwelling unit.

Perpetual Homes emphasizes the long-term rental potential, attracting responsible tenants who contribute positively to local communities. Some homeowners choose to move into their ADUs and rent out their primary houses, enhancing their financial security and overall quality of life.

The prefabrication aspect of Perpetual Homes ADUs is a key advantage, allowing for construction in an enclosed facility at a lower cost compared to traditional methods.

This not only results in quicker construction times but also minimizes the noise and dust associated with on-site construction.

Find out more at Build.Perpetualhomesadu.com (explore pricing and details of ADUs, single-family homes and our new duplex) and at Perpetualhomesadu.com .

Content provided by

Perpetual Homes

Why Bay Area multifamily owners have embraced ADUs

Mon, 11 Nov 2024 17:39:40 GMT

Owners are taking advantage of statewide changes to turn underutilized spaces into revenue-generating apartments

By Emily Landes

Granny flats. In-law units. Backyard bungalows.

These nicknames tell you everything you need to know about how people have traditionally thought of accessory dwelling units — as afterthought add-ons to single-family homes, built out of necessity to keep families together.

But that began to change on Jan. 1, 2020, when laws took effect in California to encourage ADUs at multifamily properties. By 2023, one out of every five homes built in the state was an ADU, according to the California Department of Finance.

Faced with the statewide housing crisis, the encouragement has continued: Gov. Gavin Newsom signed three more ADU-related bills in September alone.

“For the past several years, ADUs have been the fastest-growing sector of California’s housing market because they’re cheaper and easier to build and because the governor and legislature have enacted many new laws that removed obstacles and streamlined ADU permitting,” State Sen. Nancy Skinner, chair of the Senate Housing Committee, said in a statement.

Skinner, a Democrat from Berkeley, sponsored one of the recently passed rule changes, which will quadruple the number of detached ADUs that can get a rubber-stamped approval on multifamily properties. When it goes into effect in January, the rule will also allow more existing non-livable space to be converted to ADUs; the maximum number of new ADUs will be 25 percent of the current total unit count.

This simple permitting process, plus the cost-effectiveness of ADUs, which can often be prefabricated off-site, means that “granny units” are no longer just for granny. National REITs like Avalon Bay Communities and mostly local Bay Area investor-operators like Veritas are paying attention, too. They are pleased with the results of the ADUs they’ve built so far and plan to keep building more by turning carports, greenways, storage spaces and laundry rooms into much-needed — and revenue-generating — entry-level apartments, sometimes in a matter of months.

“My lesson learned to anybody looking at this is to keep an open mind, because the possibilities really are endless,” said Jackie Todesco, senior vice president at AvalonBay.

As Bay Area housing options shrink, ADUs’ popularity grows

Mon, 07 Oct 2024 15:27:01 GMT

Want to easily enhance your property value?

Consider hiring Perpetual Homes to install an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) in your backyard.

Perpetual Homes is a Premier Member of the Casita Coalition, joining housing professionals, policymakers, and experts committed to growing the middle housing ecosystem.

In response to the housing challenges faced by Californians due to low inventory, high prices and increasing interest rates, ADUs have emerged as a creative solution. Leading the way in providing sustainable, turnkey backyard homes is Danville-based Perpetual Homes, a company committed to enhancing property values and addressing the demand for housing solutions.

Perpetual Homes focuses on delivering much-needed housing in places where people want to work and live.

Since 2019, Perpetual Homes’ experienced team has been actively involved in delivering eco-friendly and sustainable ADUs throughout the Bay Area. From initial site inspection and permits to construction, utility connections, site cleanup and final inspections, the company manages every aspect of the project.

Perpetual Homes offers a cost-effective way for people to add additional multi-generational living spaces.

Building ADUs with high value

Wed, 02 Oct 2024 18:30:31 GMT

Experience affordable multigenerational living at its finest.

Perpetual Homes’ sustainable and stylish ADUs offer families a chance to stay together while providing income opportunities and boosting property values.

Perpetual Homes Builds the Future of Housing

Fri, 02 Feb 2024 16:30:20 GMT

California is facing a housing shortage estimated at 2.5 and 3.5 million homes.

America is short around six million homes, which is a big reason why home prices are still high. California is one of the most housing-constrained markets for years.

Bay Area listings in 2023 were below historical norms. There’s no reason to think that will change in 2024. California is known to build 250,000 homes per year, which has fallen exceedingly short of demand. Last year, there were only 70,000 single-family home permits issued throughout California. Sellers keep the upper hand.

AB1033 – HOW TO IMPLEMENT NEW STATE ADU CONDOMINIUM LAW

Mon, 27 Nov 2023 17:48:42 GMT

Today, nearly 20% of housing units built in California are accessory dwelling units (“ ADUs ”). According to the California Association of Realtors Housing Affordability Index, only 17% of households can afford a single-family home, less than half of the national average. In many States across the country, ADU condo conversion projects are re-enabling a generation of home buyers to live in the communities of their choice near work and family. The State of Washington recently required all local agencies to allow conversions of a primary unit and ADU to condominiums for sale. Consequently, in Seattle and Portland 40% to 50% of ADUs constructed are sold as condominiums to new homebuyers, where they are bought for approximately half the value of a stand-alone single-family home. Such ADU condo conversion purchases are eligible for federally guaranteed mortgages, making them easy to finance for ordinary homebuyers.

The California State Legislature recently adopted a new law, AB1033,

AB1033 removes the previous State law prohibition against mapping and selling a single-family home and its ADU as condominiums. Even though this prohibition on condo conversion has been eliminated, it is up to Local Agencies to amend their codes to allow these entry-level home ownership opportunities.

WHAT NEEDS TO BE DONE TO ALLOW SALE OF ADUS?

Respecting local control, the Legislature left it up to Local Agencies to amend their municipal code(s) to allow these entry-level home ownership opportunities through the sale of ADUs. The Casita Coalition and Reuben, Junius, and Rose, LLP have developed this guidance to encourage your Local Agency to make the following changes to your code(s), procedures and policies to re-enable Californians priced out of many of our communities to once again have a dream of buying a home by enabling more naturally-affordable condominiums for sale.

RECOMMENDED STEPS TO IMPLEMENT SALE OF ADUS

1. Eliminate Sale Restrictions. Remove all provisions in your municipal code that prohibits the sale or other conveyance of an ADU. These restrictions are typically included in local Condominium Codes and Zoning Codes.

2. Adopt Legislation Expressly Allowing ADU Sales. To align local rules with State law, adopt changes to the municipal code that allow conversion of a home and its ADU into condominiums subject to the requirements of the Davis- Stirling Common Interest Development Act (Cal. Civ. Code Sec. 4400-6150.) Appropriate amendment text will differ depending on the existing municipal code, but AB1033 requires a list of express provisions be included in such local ordinance, attached at the end of this document.

3. Publish ADU Checklists. Provide a comprehensive checklist for any ADU building permit and for ADU condominium/subdivision projects, indicating Subdivision Map Act compliance and lender subordination information.

4. First Right of Offer to Owner Occupants. To further encourage new homeownership, consider including a condition of approval for establishing condominiums of a primary unit and ADU giving a first right of offer for a period of 45 days on publicly accessible databases, e.g., MLS, to buyers indicating an intent to live in the property (either themselves or their immediate family). To avoid issues with lenders, however, do not require owner occupancy.

5. Create “Grow Homeownership” Program . Establish a program with dedicated staff that expedites ADU condominium processing with first comments to be issued within 45 days of submission of a complete application.

Consider waiving or reducing application and impact fees otherwise applied
to condominiums.
The Grow Homeownership Program could be paired with other funding
programs your jurisdiction may have, e.g., through SB2 (2017) funds.
If you have any questions or would like to discuss any of the above, please do not hesitate to reach out to Justin A. Zucker from Reuben, Junius & Rose, LLP at 415.656.6489 or jzucker@reubenlaw.com .

AB1033 – Required Text in ADU Condominium Ordinances – Cal. Govt. Code Sec. 65852.2(a)(10)

(A) The condominiums shall be created pursuant to the Davis-Stirling Common Interest Development Act (Part 5 (commencing with Section 4000) of Division 4 of the Civil Code).

(B) The condominiums shall be created in conformance with all applicable objective requirements of the Subdivision Map Act (Division 2 (commencing with Section 66410)) and all objective requirements of a local subdivision ordinance.

(C) Before recordation of the condominium plan, a safety inspection of the accessory dwelling unit shall be conducted as evidenced either through a certificate of occupancy from the local agency or a housing quality standards report from a building inspector certified by the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development.

(D) (i) Neither a subdivision map nor a condominium plan shall be recorded with the county recorder in the county where the real property is located without each lienholder’s consent. The following shall apply to the consent of a lienholder:

(I) A lienholder may refuse to give consent.

(II) A lienholder may consent provided that any terms and conditions required by the lienholder are satisfied.

(ii) Prior to recordation of the initial or any subsequent modifications to the condominium plan, written evidence of the lienholder’s consent shall be provided to the county recorder along with a signed statement from each lienholder that states as follows:

“(Name of lienholder) hereby consents to the recording of this condominium plan in their sole and absolute discretion and the borrower has or will satisfy any additional terms and conditions the lienholder may have.”

(iii) The lienholder’s consent shall be included on the condominium plan or a separate form attached to the condominium plan that includes the following information:

(I) The lienholder’s signature.

(II) The name of the record owner or ground lessee. (III) The legal description of the real property.

(IV) The identities of all parties with an interest in the real property as reflected in the real property records.

(iv) The lienholder’s consent shall be recorded in the office of the county recorder of the county in which the real property is located.

(E) The local agency shall include the following notice to consumers on any accessory dwelling or junior accessory dwelling unit submittal checklist or public information issued describing requirements and permitting for accessory dwelling units, including as standard condition of any accessory dwelling unit building permit or condominium plan approval:

“NOTICE: If you are considering establishing your primary dwelling unit and accessory dwelling unit as a condominium, please ensure that your building permitting agency allows this practice. If you decide to establish your primary dwelling unit and accessory dwelling unit as a condominium, your condominium plan or any future modifications to the condominium plan must be recorded with the County Recorder. Prior to recordation or modification of your subdivision map and condominium plan, any lienholder with a lien on your title must provide a form of written consent either on the condominium plan, or on the lienholder’s consent form attached to the condominium plan, with text that clearly states that the lender approves recordation of the condominium plan and that you have satisfied their terms and conditions, if any.

In order to secure lender consent, you may be required to follow additional lender requirements, which may include, but are not limited to, one or more of the following:

(a) Paying off your current lender.

You may pay off your mortgage and any liens through a refinance or a new loan. Be aware that refinancing or using a new loan may result in changes to your interest rate or tax basis. Also, be aware that any subsequent modification to your subdivision map or condominium plan must also be consented to by your lender, which consent may be denied.

(b) Securing your lender’s approval of a modification to their loan collateral due to the change of your current property legal description into one or more condominium parcels.

This may include a copy of the improvement contract entered in good faith with a licensed contractor, evidence that the record owner or ground lessee has the funds to complete the work, and a signed statement made by the record owner or ground lessor that the information in the consent above is true and correct.”

(F) If an accessory dwelling unit is established as a condominium, the local government shall require the homeowner to notify providers of utilities, including water, sewer, gas, and electricity, of the condominium creation and separate conveyance.

(G) (i) The owner of a property or a separate interest within an existing planned development that has an existing association, as defined in Section 4080 of the Civil Code, shall not record a condominium plan to create a common interest development under Section 4100 of the Civil Code without the express written authorization by the existing association.

(ii) For purposes of this subparagraph, written authorization by the existing association means approval by the board at a duly noticed board meeting, as defined in Section 4090 of the Civil Code, and if needed pursuant to the existing association’s governing documents, membership approval of the existing association.

(H) An accessory dwelling unit shall be sold or otherwise conveyed separate from the primary residence only under the conditions outlined in this paragraph or pursuant to Section 65852.26.

Here’s how AB 1033 works

Tue, 31 Oct 2023 12:40:24 GMT

A new law allows homeowners to sell ADUs like condos, boosting homeownership. Here’s how AB 1033 works:

Accessory dwelling units, also referred to as ADUs and “granny flats,” have been available in California only as rentals. But a new law, Assembly Bill 1033, is giving Californians the opportunity to buy and sell them as condominiums.

ADUs come in all shapes and sizes — for example, a converted garage, a small home in the backyard, or, as often seen in San Francisco, an unused portion of the main house, said Assemblyman Phil Ting (D-San Francisco), who drafted the legislation.

Under AB 1033, which was signed into law this week, property owners in participating cities will be able to construct an ADU on their land and sell it separately, following the same rules that apply to condominiums. It gives homeowners more options for building on their property, and “the hope is, it would create more homeownership,”said Ting.

Under the new law, local governments need to opt in to the ADU-as-condominium approach for it to be an option in their cities.

Here’s how the new rules will work in participating cities:

As with new condominiums, homeowners building ADUs must notify the local utilities, including water, sewer, gas and electric, of the creation and separate conveyance of the unit. Each property will also have to form a homeowners association to assess dues to cover the cost of caring for the property’s exterior and shared spaces, such as the driveway, a pool or a common roof.

Similar to condominiums on one property, the home and the ADU will have two different property taxes, Ting said.

He says he believes that many of the initial ADUs going through this process will be sold to the family members or close friends of the homeowner.

“And then as people are more comfortable with this and you see more ADUs being sold, and it’s more prevalent, then I could see this being more of a traditional real estate transaction,” he said.

Meredith Stowers, a loan officer at CrossCountry Mortgage in San Diego who specializes in ADUs, said AB 1033 benefits both homeowners and new buyers.

“The typical homeowners we see are retirees who have long since paid off their mortgage, but are maybe living on a pittance of Social Security and meager retirement funds,” she said.

Under this law, the retirees can earn supplemental income and young families can buy an affordable starter home.

Stowers said the problem that retirees are facing is that, “after so many years of loan modifications in high rates, it doesn’t make financial sense for the retiree to move out of their home.”

She argues it’s more expensive for them to downsize to a smaller house, and this new piece of legislation opens opportunities for retirees to leverage the equity they’ve built up in their homes while also creating affordable housing.

“We’re even seeing some retirees add ADUs in their backyard that they then move into and potentially selling off their home,” she said.

Selling ADUs as condominiums is having success in places such as Oregon, Texas and Seattle.

When Seattle removed regulatory barriers that discouraged property owners from constructing ADUs in 2019, the city issued nearly 1,000 ADU permits, more than four times the number permitted in 2018, according to a report released in March.

The report also found that in 2022, the city permitted 437 attached ADUs and 551 detached ADUs, which it referred to as backyard cottages. Just under half were on sites with multiple ADUs and one-third were part of a development that included a new single-family residence.

Included in the report were sample sales for neighbor residential parcels with detached ADUs, reporting that a unit of more than 1,000 square feet sold for an average of anywhere between $500,000 to $800,000.

7 Portable Building Homes for Sale Right this Very Second

Wed, 13 Sep 2023 21:54:59 GMT

In the off-grid community, shipping container homes are remarkably popular. Those just looking for an affordable home, off gridder, DIYers, recycled shipping containers would be a logical start for them.

To create the tiny house of your dreams, shipping containers are economical, portable, and can be arranged in countless ways. They are also highly durable and built to withstand the worst weather conditions. Stuffy and steel boxes can be easily converted into a home. A comfortable, modern home for you and your family.

What Are Shipping Container Homes?

So, basically, what are shipping container homes? It is built with new or recycled steel shipping containers. Moreover, containers are most commonly found in two sizes, 20 feet by 8 feet or 40 feet by 8 feet. And, they can also be found in two heights: standard containers are 8 ½ feet tall, and high cube containers are 9 ½ feet tall.

7 Portable Cabin Homes for Sale:

Here are some of the best portable cabin homes for sale for you and your family. Let’s discover:

The Lido

● 3 BEDS

● 2 BATH

● 1173 SQ FT

If you are going after luxury living, portable building homes for sale is what you need to go for. The minimalistic vibe that comes with luxury is just the perfect condo for you and your family. Moreover, there are large windows on all sides, offering you 360-degree videos of the outdoors.

The Sonoma

● 3 BEDS

● 2 BATH

● 1143 SQ FT

Sonoma is all about sustainable living that comes with a modern aesthetic. Therefore, they offer everything from backyard offices made of a single shipping container to gorgeous houses built with several containers. Everything is perfect about this because its customizable, from floor to ceiling.

The Huntington

Its stunning windows at the front not only allow ample natural light to flood in but also offer a picturesque view of your surroundings. Additionally, you have the creative freedom to choose the colors and design elements, making it both modern and simplistic, aligning with your personal style.

The Kensington

● 3 BEDS

● 2 BATH

● 1173 SQ FT

Now, let's talk about The Kensington, a gem among portable building homes for sale. If you're seeking spaciousness combined with style, this one's a winner. With three bedrooms and two bathrooms, it's perfect for a growing family or for those who simply love having extra space. Furthermore, you'll find a sense of comfort and convenience in this well-designed portable home.

Giving Your Backyard What It Deserves: Prefab Tiny Homes

Wed, 13 Sep 2023 21:39:40 GMT

Does your backyard look like something is missing from it? We know just what it needs. Tiny home for backyard! Yes, you heard us right. This might sound to you like a very pricey project that has high maintenance requirements, but with Perpetual, a tiny home backyard guest house is really easy to build.

No matter what theme you decide to go for, whether it is aesthetic, cottage core, mod, or colonial, there is a ready-made guest house for you. There are a wide variety of options that you can choose from, from guest houses to building a work from home space.

There are so many more things that are amazing about tiny homes for backyard which is the speed of work. The ready-made guest house could arrive in your backyard in under a month, isn’t that crazy?

6 Tiny Homes for Your Backyard

The Piedmont

1 Bed
1 Bath
499 SQ FT

Pros

Firstly, you can have space efficiency. Moreover, tiny homes maximize the use of limited space which makes them ideal for small backyards.
The Piedmont has quick installation. Therefore, ready made guest houses can be delivered and set up in your backyard in under a month, which will save you a lot of time and hassle.
You do not have to worry about aesthetic appeal. Tiny homes come in different styles, allowing you to match them with your backyards theme. It doesn’t matter if you are going for cottage core, aesthetic, modern, or colonial.

The Monterey

1 Bed
1 Bath
560 SQ FT

Pros

Monterey offers ample living space, despite its tiny home classification. Therefore, with 560 square feet, you have room to breathe and customize your interior.
The best part about Monterey is the open concept design. Hence, it creates an inviting and versatile living area, perfect for various uses.
You can customize Monterey to your liking. Whether you prefer a cottage core, aesthetic, or minimalistic theme, this tiny can adapt your backyards ambiance perfectly, trust us.

The Belmont

● 1 Bed

● 1 Bath

● 435 SQ FT

Pros

● The Belmont offers a comfortable living space. Hence, it is perfect for creating an intimate retreat in your backyard.

● The bathroom that you will find in the Belmont is absolutely exquisite. It will ensure your guests have all the essentials they might need.

● With 435 square feet, this tiny home efficiently utilized space while maintaining a cozy atmosphere.

Everything You Need to Know About Modular in Law Suites

Wed, 13 Sep 2023 21:24:15 GMT

It doesn’t matter if your current home is modular or not, there are many people who want to build an in-modular home with an in-law suite on their property and end up using modular construction, and you should go for it too. There are a lot of options for you of course, and these in lawsuits are also called secondary suites, granny suits and mother-in-law suites.

The Three Pros

Efficiency in Construction

One of the standout advantages of modular in-law suites is the efficiency with which they can be constructed. Modular construction entails assembling prefabricated sections in a controlled factory environment. Additionally, this controlled setting reduces the impact of weather-related delays, ensuring a faster construction timeline.

Design Flexibility

Tiny home in law suite construction doesn't limit you when it comes to design options. From layout configurations to interior finishes, you have the freedom to customize your in-law suite according to your specific requirements. Whether you want a small and snug area or a larger and more flexible arrangement, modular construction lets you customize the design to match what you need.

Better Quality and Sustainability

Modular construction is recognized for its top-notch quality. The controlled factory setting ensures that everything is put together precisely and follows all the rules and standards. Therefore, this results in an in-law suite that's strong, durable, and built to last over the years.

1 Con

The one con? Well, it's really fast. The process for a tiny home in a law suite is really fast and what does that mean? Your in-laws will be on your doorstep that much faster, oops!

The construction time that is being taken, and the sustainability measures are pre measured and that is what makes this process much faster than it already is.

Find the Right Spot for Your In-Law Suite

Isn’t it hard to live in a multi-generational household? Well, you are not alone in this. The lack of privacy and noise can be too much at times, we agree.

You should consider separation between the main house and the in-law suite to mitigate these issues.

● What is the route of connection for the utilities?

● If there are any trees and uneven terrain, you need to be careful.

● Ensure that there is a direct line of sight from one structure to another for security and safety.

Conclusion

We already know you are considering this option, and we are saying go for it. At Perpetual , we will make sure that one con happens as soon as possible because you deserve your own privacy too. Get on board with Perpetual!

Explore the Inexpensiveness of Modular Homes

Wed, 13 Sep 2023 21:08:01 GMT

When we drive by a construction site, don’t we waste so much? One of the most common things that you will expect to see is that several dumpsters are filled with pieces of plywood. According to an Observational Research, 15% of all materials used to build a new home eventually end up as waste. This is a subtitle for your new post

Benefits of Prefab

As time goes by, the cost of building a new home keeps going up. Moreover, the average new home built in the United States was $287,982 in early 2021, but with more aspiring buyers than sellers, that figure is rising. An existing home is not a better bargain.

For those who are looking for a home that doesn’t break the bank and is also sustainable, prefabricated and most affordable modular home companies offer high quality design at what’s often a smaller per square foot cost. Additionally, prefabs also offer bold, distinctive style, isn’t that just the best?

Less Waste

When resources are used more efficiently, it causes less waste. Moreover, prefab homes are inherently sustainable. It's easier to gauge how much material is required for a prebuilt home since the same formula is followed for each model.

Durability

The durability factor is one of the best benefits. Why? Not every house could stand up to the long journey of being shipped from the factory to a homebuilding site. At Perpetual, the prefab homes are made from sturdy materials, which makes them more durable out of the date than traditionally built homes.

Shorter Construction Time

So, you know how, when a house is being built, it's built on the traditional site? Prefab home is already built. What does that mean? Sustainability, yes! And, since building takes place indoors, weather delays won’t pose any problem.

Here are some of most affordable modular home companies:

The Danville

● 2 Bed

● 2 Bath

● 786 SQ FT

Now, let's introduce you to the Danville which is a prime example of affordability and functionality. With 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and a spacious layout spanning 786 square feet, the Danville is a testament to how comfortable living needn't come with an extravagant price tag.

The Huntington

● 3 BEDS

● 2 BATH

● 1173 SQ FT

Now, let's shine the spotlight on Huntington. With 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and a generous 1173 square feet layout, the Huntington exemplifies the fusion of affordability and functionality. Furthermore, it's a living testament that you can have all the comforts of home without the heavy price tag.

It's not just about being kind to the planet – it's also about durability. Not all homes can withstand the journey from factory to building site, but at Perpetual, our prefab homes are constructed using sturdy materials, ensuring they stand the test of time and travel.

Bottomline

Perpetual wants what’s best for their clients and the planet. Being one of the most affordable modular home companies, we take utmost pride in the services we provide and the living standard we envision. Everything is possible!

Where to Buy Prefab Tiny Houses Right Now

Wed, 13 Sep 2023 19:56:59 GMT

Ah, today we will be answering all your questions regarding luxury prefab ready-made economical portable tiny home modular houses. The trend to invest in these homes has taken over the market. Perhaps, this is your journey to a more luxurious style of living, and this has got us hooked.

Ahead, 3 prefabricated tiny homes you can buy right now.

The Belmont

● 1 Bed

● 1 Bath

● 435 SQ FT

Ah, today we will be answering all your questions regarding luxury prefab ready-made economical portable tiny home modular houses. The trend to invest in This house is perfect for a newly wedded couple. Moreover, this little home is the perfect wilderness escape. Perpetual sells prefab house tiny living, portable modular containers, and the perfect house home offices for you. Offering a variety of floor plans, these 400 square feet homes include the most magical high ceilings, a sliding glass door, and even a deck.

The Piedmont

● 1 Bed

● 1 Bath

● 499 SQ FT

Being a small family, this house would be wonderful for a luxurious living standard. Similarly, the beautiful ceilings and modern furniture around the house will uplift your mood. The 499 SQ FT, which expresses a lot of space for your family to make memories in. The Piedmont comes with a bathroom, closet, bedroom, and so much more.

Imagine waking up to the soft morning light filtering through the windows of your very own Piedmont tiny home. The open layout creates a seamless flow from the living area to the kitchen, making every square inch count. And let's talk about that bathroom, it's not just a place to freshen up; it's a private oasis where you can unwind and relax after a long day.

The Monterey

● 1 BED

● 1 BATH

● 560 SQ FT

This is an absolute Insta worthy house. With this Insta worthy house, you can now live in a world filled with all sorts of customization available. And, the intricate designs? We cannot talk about it enough. You can now invest in a life long, long term home without having to break the bank. To get away from reality or live beautifully permanently, this is just the right home for you.

With a spacious layout spanning 560 square feet, this tiny home is a testament to the fact that size is no barrier when it comes to elegance. The moment you step into the Monterey, you will be welcomed by a sense of spaciousness that defies its size

At Perpetual, we have what the world calls the definition of luxury. Our websites give our clients the opportunity to visualize the home through virtual tours. And, the best part? It's all affordable and you can easily find a prefab house tiny living portable modular container house home office according to your preference. Don’t wait any longer, contact us now!

Guest House vs. ADU: Breaking Down the Difference

Mon, 28 Aug 2023 21:08:06 GMT

Deciding between a guest House and an Accessory Dwelling Unit depends on your specific needs and reasons. A Guest House offers separate accommodation on your property, suitable for visitors or potential rental income. It provides privacy but may have regulations and construction cost limitations. On the other hand, an ADU refers to a self-contained living space within your existing home or attached to it. ADUs offer versatility and can serve as a rental unit, home office, or additional living space. They often have more streamlined regulations and might be more cost-effective than building a separate Guest House. However, the choice depends on your budget, space availability, and long-term plans. option.

Guest House vs. ADU - which option is best for you?

The primary difference between a guest house and an ADU is their size, function, and legal status. The guest house is typically a standalone structure that facilitates daily living, containing bedrooms, living spaces, and utilities. Despite this, an ADU is a smaller, secondary residential unit on the same property as a main house. ADUs can take various forms, such as granny flats, garage apartments, or backyard cottages. It offers a functional living space with a kitchen, bathroom, and separate entrance. From a legal perspective, guest houses are usually subject to standard zoning regulations. While ADUs may be subject to additional local ordinances governing their size, location. ADUs provide versatile and often more affordable housing options, contributing to addressing the housing shortage crisis and offering homeowners potential rental income. For better outcomes, consulting professionals and considering your goals will help determine you best

The comparative financial Analysis of investing in Guest houses vs. ADUs

Investing provides profitable financial opportunities, with guest houses and ADUs evolving as popular options for investors. This analysis explores the financial aspects of investing in these two types of properties, including ROI, property value appreciation, and Tax implications. Additionally, what are the financial benefits of each option? Which is best for you?

Guest Houses:

Guest houses are standalone structures on a property that can serve as accommodations for visitors. When considering the financial aspects of investing in guest houses, several factors come into play:

● Guest houses can generate rental income through short-term or long-term rentals, providing a consistent revenue stream.

● Well-maintained guest houses can enhance the overall property value, especially if they have unique amenities or features.

● Rental income from guest houses is generally subject to taxation. However, tax deductions may be available for expenses related to the upkeep and maintenance of the property.

● Guest houses require ongoing maintenance, which can include repairs and renovations. At the same time, these costs need to be factored into the financial analysis.

ADUs:

ADUs are self-contained residential units on the same property as the main residence. They are often used as rental units or housing for family members. Here are the fundamental financial considerations for investing in ADUs:

● Like guest houses, ADUs can generate rental income, contributing to the property owner’s cash flow.

● The presence of ADUs can boost property values, especially in markets with limited housing supply and high demand for rental units.

● Taxation of rental income and potential deductions for expenses also apply to ADUs. Tax laws may vary based on the location.

● ADUs will also inquire about ongoing maintenance costs, which must be factored into the overall financial analysis.

Comparative Analysis

● Both guest houses and ADUs offer potential rental income. The rental rates will depend on location, property size, and local market conditions.

● Both options can contribute to property value appreciation, potentially leading to higher returns upon sale.

● Tax implications of rental income and expense deductions apply to guest houses and ADUs, with variations based on jurisdiction.

Although the difference between the guest house and ADUs will depend on individual needs and investment goals. However, it is suggested that you consult with financial advisors and real estate professionals to make an informed decision based on your unique circumstances.

Overview of California’s ADU Regulations: How it works?

Mon, 28 Aug 2023 20:13:11 GMT

Navigating California’s Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) regulations involves completely understanding the state’s guidelines for building secondary residential units on existing properties. According to data from the Department of Housing and Community Development, the Building Departments across the state went from issuing around 9,000 ADU permits in 2018 to almost 12,400 in 2020, which is nearly a 30% increase per year. Hence, to actively support ADU construction, California lawmakers continue to pass laws that are in favor of homeowners.

California gives leverage to its ADU regulations to promote affordable housing options. Homeowners must follow local zoning codes, property size and further setback requirements. Furthermore, this process typically involves obtaining necessary permits, ensuring compliance with building codes, and addressing parking and utility considerations. Connect with local authorities or professionals about ADU regulations in California to help streamline the process and ensure successful compliance.

Types of ADUs Allowed in California

California allows various Accessory Dwelling Units to help fix the housing shortage. However, the types may include:

● Attached ADUs (constructed within or attached to an existing primary residence)

● Detached ADUs (separate structures on the same property)

● Junior ADUs (small units within an existing home)

● Garage Conversion ADUs (conversion of existing garages

Additionally, these units offer flexible housing options and can help homeowners get passive income or provide housing facilities for family members. Although ADU rules and regulations vary by city and country, it’s important to check local law and ordinances, and zoning regulations before building an ADU.

Size and Design Guidelines regulation for building California’s ADU

California’s Accessory Dwelling Unit regulations provide size and design guidelines that promote housing variety. California allows ADUs up to 1200 square feet for attached units, and 800 square feet for detached units. These regulations encourage adaptable designs, ensuring compatibility with existing neighborhoods and increasing housing stock. However, strategies must fulfill height requirements and local zoning. It is essential to check the current guidelines, as they have been updated occasionally.

Do you need a permit for ADU in California?

Absolutely! Obtaining a permit for an ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) in California is generally required. California state legislation and local regulations mandate permits for ADU construction or conversion. However, California relieved ADU regulations to promote affordable housing, but zoning, building codes, and permits highly depend on the city and country. Permits ensure compliance with safety, health, and land regulations. Navigating the permit process and legal requirements accurately is essential, as they might have evolved annually.

What is the Permitting Process for ADUs?

The permitting process required for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU) typically involves several steps, which may include:

● Check local zoning, rules and regulations, and building codes to ensure your property is eligible for an ADU.

● Prepared detailed plans and architectural drawings for the ADU's design and layout.

● Submit your permit application to the relevant local government department, including the required fees and documents.

● The process may require some time. It depends on the specific location and type of requirement.

● You will need to submit plans to the city.

● The permitting process typically takes three to nine months in California.

● The application will be double view for compliance with zoning, building, and safety codes. This may involve inspections, corrections, or revisions.

● Once it is approved, you’ll receive the permit to start construction.

● Clear communication with local authorities and adherence to regulations are crucial throughout the process.

● Consulting with experts can help align the permitting process and ensure a successful project.

Is it worth building an ADU in the Bay Area? Consider the Top Reasons

Mon, 28 Aug 2023 20:01:38 GMT

Building an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) can be considered a worthwhile investment for various reasons. Firstly, it provides additional rental income or space for family members. ADUs can help address housing shortages by offering more affordable housing options within existing neighborhoods. They also promote sustainable land use by maximizing existing infrastructure and reducing urban sprawl from a financial standpoint; ADUs can lead to long-term returns through rental income and potential tax benefits.

Additionally, they offer flexibility; these small units can serve as guest houses, home offices, or even short-term rentals. However, factors like local construction, construction costs, and potential neighborhood impacts should be thoroughly considered. Overall, building an ADU can offer financial, environmental, and lifestyle benefits, making it a worthwhile option for many property owners in the Bay Area.

Is ADU a good investment in Bay Area?

Accessory Dwelling units (ADU) have gained popularity in the high-demand housing markets of the San Francisco Bay Area due to their potential to provide extra income and long-term benefits. Here are some factors to consider when evaluating whether an ADU is a good investment in the Bay Area.

Regulations and Zoning:

Check local regulations and zoning laws. In the Bay Area, regulations related to ADUs can vary significantly from city to city. Some areas have restrictions on the size, height, parking requirements, or other aspects of ADU construction.

Get passive income:

The Bay Area has a high demand for housing, which can lead to strong passive income from ADU’s.

Long-term goals:

Consider whether your investment lines up with your long-term goals. Especially if you are looking for steady rental income, a space for family members.

Local Demand:

Research the specific area within the Bay Area where your property is located. Some neighborhoods have a higher demand for rental units than others.

Unlocking Hidden Value: ADUs as the Bay Area's Investment Secret

Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU) have emerged as the Bay Area's best-kept investment secret. These secondary units, settled within residential properties, offer the advantage of housing supply and generate extra income for homeowners with skyrocketing real estate prices; ADUs provide a viable solution for homeowners to tap into hidden value. Additionally, leveraging ADUs addresses the housing crisis and offers a source of passive income through backyard rental. ADUs are gaining prominence as a strategic investment choice. This trend reforms the real estate landscape by fostering sustainable growth, increased affordability, and financial empowerment for Bay Area residents.

Analyze ROI: ADUs as the Future of Bay Area Real Estate Investments

Accessory Dwelling units are emerging as a prominent frontier in Bay Area real estate investments, offering the potential for an attractive ROI. With skyrocketing property prices and the housing crisis, ADUs offer strategic revenue for maximizing ROI. These compact, versatile units leverage existing land to create income streams or housing solutions. ADUs cater to the region’s housing needs and align with sustainability trends and urban planning initiatives. Investors can diversify their portfolios while addressing housing challenges. Factors like construction cost, permitting hurdles, and property management remain considerations. By exploiting ADUs. Furthermore, investors can potentially unlock substantial returns while contributing to the Bay Area’s evolving real estate landscape.

What is the best time for ADU investment in the Bay Area?

The best time to invest in building an Accessory Dwelling Unit in the Bay Area depends on some factors, which may include:

● Monitor the local real estate market in the Bay Area. If property prices are relatively stable or in demand for rental housing, it might be a favorable time to invest in an ADU.

● Evaluate the supply and demand for housing in your specific location within the Bay Area. An ADU could be in demand if there is a shortage of affordable housing options.

● Low-interest rates can make financing ADU construction more affordable. Keep an eye on interest rate trends and consider taking advantage of lower rates if they align with your investment timeline.

ADUs on the Rise: How Backyard Units Can Boost Your Financial Outlook

Mon, 28 Aug 2023 19:15:59 GMT

What does ADU mean in housing? An Accessory Dwelling Unit in housing refers to a secondary- self-contained unit located on the same property as a primary single-family home. ADUs are also popular with different names, such as in-law apartments and backyard cottages. They are self-contained living spaces with a kitchen, bedroom, and sleeping areas for independent living. Although ADU’s become increasingly popular, homeowners are recognizing their potential to increase their financial prospects. These backyard units, standalone cottages, or basement apartments offer the dual benefit of extra living space and potential rental income. ADUs allow homeowners to expand their income by renting their units to tenants and tourists. By availing of these ADU, homeowners improve their financial outlook through rental income, property value, and active participation in housing solutions.

The Financial Benefits of Building a Backyard Unit

Building a backyard unit offers a significant financial benefit. It can generate additional income by renting a backyard unit. Supplementing the homeowner's cash flow and covering loan costs. Additionally, extra living space often increases property value, leading to higher pay and tax incentives like deductions for depreciation and expenses. Some of the other financial benefits of building a backyard may include:

Home Value Appreciation

The addition of a backyard unit can highly contribute to home value appreciation. This little space generates rental income and enhances the overall property value. The increased square footage and functional living area can attract a broader range of potential buyers or renters, leading to a higher demand for the property. Backyard units often cater to the growing trend of multigenerational living, providing extra living space for family members or even serving as a home office. This adaptability can make the property attractive to a broader audience and increase its market value. Moreover, as the housing market values unique features and functional spaces, a well-designed backyard unit can set a property apart from others in the area, potentially commanding the best price.

Short and Long-Term Financial Gain

ADU,s have gained popularity as a way to increase housing options and serve as a source of income for homeowners and real estate agents. Here is how they contribute to short-term and long-term financial gains:

Tourist Accommodation:

Depending on your location, you can list the ADU on platforms for short-term vacation rentals. This can lead to higher rental rates during peak tourism seasons.

Cost sharing:

If you are building ADU for extended family members, it can help share the cost and offers privacy too.

Equity Growth:

As you pay down the mortgage on your property, your equity increases. The income generated from the ADU can help accelerate mortgage payments, further growing your equity.

Flexible Use:

If your needs change, you can repurpose the ADU. For instance, if you no longer want to rent it out, you could use it for personal purposes like a home office, guest suite, or space for ageing family members.

Standard rules to follow when valuing an ADU

Having an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) involves assessing several factors to arrive at an accurate estimate. Here are some basic rules to follow when valuing an ADU:

Consider your area's real estate market conditions, and identify supply and demand factors. Interest rates and local economic trends. These can highly influence the value of an ADU.
If you are still determining about valuing the ADU on your own, consider hiring a professional appraiser with experience in valuing ADUs. An appraiser can provide an attractive assessment of the ADU's value.
ADU size, layout, and number of bedrooms/bathrooms play a significant role in determining value. Larger, well-designed units with adequate amenities tend to have higher values.
Assess the functionality of ADU. Is it well-designed for comfortable living? Does it have its entrance, utilities, and parking? A functional and well-designed ADU is more valuable.

Perpetual Homes is Leading the Way asCalifornians Turn to ADUs Amidst Housing Crisis

Wed, 09 Aug 2023 20:33:02 GMT

Enhancing your property values and providing much-needed housing solutions for family members and renters have put accessory dwelling units (ADU) in the spotlight and, most recently, in proposed legislation.

Low inventory, high prices, and soaring interest rates have made Californians turn to the ADU as a creative solution. Danville-based Perpetual Homes, one of the most successful companies leading the solution, is here to help.

Since 2019, Perpetual Homes and its team of real estate, home building professionals, civil engineers, architects, and the founder’s over four decades of experience have been committed to offering sustainable turn-key backyard homes throughout the Bay Area. The team manages the project from the initial site inspection, permits, and site preparation to construction, utility connections, site cleanup, and final inspections.

Perpetual Homes Founder and President Katherine Anderson’s vision has become a reality: Creating factory- built award-winning designs with eco- friendly and sustainable materials.

The proposed legislation (California’s AB 1033) would further improve and enhance current ADU laws. On the coattail of SB9, a state law effective January 1, 2022, that allows the construction of up to two dwelling units on a single-family lot, AB 1033, if passed, would allow California cities and counties to decide if they want residents to have the option to sell their ADUs as a separate property from their primary residence.

According to Assembly member Phil Ting, the bill’s author, “the lack of homeownership opportunities in most California communities for working families is contributing to the State’s growing population of renters and driving families out of state, “where they can afford to buy a home.

“Many neighbor- hoods have become de-facto gated communities, with median home prices of $700K to $1M keeping out all but a small percentage of Californians from ever dreaming of home ownership, reducing the state’s population and harming our economy,” he writes. He adds, “The absence of avail- able homes for purchase at rates affordable to moderate-income working families bars wealth- building and housing stability for Californians harmed by historic discriminatory housing policies.”

By repealing the current law prohibiting the separate conveyance of ADUs, AB 1033 “would allow cities and counties the freedom to pursue homeownership programs and to create a path to wealth-building for families,” he adds.

Up to this point, the only authority to convey ADUs separately from their primary residence was in a relatively narrow set of circumstances for ADUs built or developed by a qualified nonprofit corporation with a tenancy in common agreement.

The Senate Housing Committee approved AB 1033 at its June 20, 2023, hearing on a vote of 8-1. The Senate Governance and Finance Committee is hearing AB 1033 as the commit- tee of second reference this month. Supporters, including the California State Association of Counties, outnumber the opposition by more than 10 to 1.

Another piece of legislation currently under review is AB 976, which seeks to permanently eliminate owner occupancy restrictions for ADUs that presently exist in cities and counties. These restrictions, which prohibit the requirement of the property owner’s occupancy to either the accessory dwelling unit (ADU) or the primary residence, are set to expire soon. However, this new law aims to remove these restrictions permanently.

Built on existing properties, the ADUs expand the housing supply and tend to be used as lower-cost rentals, which play a key role in increasing the housing supply in neighbor- hoods across California. According to a report from UC Berkeley’s Terner Center for Housing Innovation, homeowners cite the ability to offer ADUs for rent as one of the main reasons they build these types of homes.

“Rental income can serve as an important source of financial security,” the report reads, and “since ADU rent typically offsets the cost of construction, ADUs are more accessible for lower-income homeowners.” AB 976 passed the State Assembly last May with a 54-0 vote. It passed the Senate Housing Committee in June and now heads to the Senate Governance and Finance Committee.

Turn to Perpetual Homes when considering adding an ADU to your property. Sizes range from a 430-square-foot model with one bedroom and one bath to a 1,200-square-foot model with three bedrooms and two baths.

Take a virtual tour through several models by visiting perpetualhomesadu.com or call Perpetual Homes at 925-309-0205 for more information.

Content provided by Monica Lander

Home Guide: Perpetual Homes Aims To Keep People In The Bay Area

Wed, 24 May 2023 21:51:38 GMT

Increase your income, boost your property value, or make room for your loved ones with an Accessory Dwelling Unit.

Especially if it's designed and built by Perpetual Homes, a Danville-based company specializing in prefabricated residences and ADUs that are stylish, luxurious, innovative, and adaptable. Founded in 2019, Perpetual Homes has steadily grown its customer base and sphere of influence. They now have showrooms in Concord and Sonoma, and the company's work is found throughout Northern California.

Perpetual Homes employs industry experts with a combined experience of more than 40 years in real estate and home building. Their clients are people searching for an additional stream of income, a simplified lifestyle, or somewhere to age-in-place.

"The most important part of our business that we are here to create the highest quality residences at an affordable price point," said Katherine Anderson of Perpetual Homes. "More people are putting ADUs in backyards as the state looks for ways to create housing in California."

Gov. Gavin Newsom is now shooting for 2.5 million new housing units by 2030.

In addition to ADUs, Perpetual Homes also fabricates single-family residences. The structures are functional and attractive, with energy efficient insulation and nine-foot ceilings.

Creating more housing opportunities to help expedite S.B. 9 is one of Perpetual Homes' core values. In addition, single-family home properties in California can now add an additional main home and two ADUs under S.B. 9.

"It's about keeping families together and providing people an opportunity to stay in the area," Anderson said.

Nearly 20% of housing units built in California today are ADUs.

For our residences, Perpetual Homes lays a custom foundation, before assembling the home off-site. This approach keeps costs down. Perpetual Homes also handles setting up the necessary permitting and utilities.

"We want to make it as turn-key as possible," Anderson said.

Perpetual Homes collaborated with award-winning architect William Hezmalhalch out of Sacramento on some of the home designs. The results are layouts that are practical, efficient, and surprisingly spacious.

"They live bigger than they are," Anderson said. "Many families love the benefit of communal living. Families enjoy their own space but the connectivity of being close by."

Perpetual Homes also has a line of modular ADUs which are a part of their Perpetual Lux series. These ADUs range in size from 522 square feet to 667 square feet. And finally, they build a range of single-family homes which are built to HUD manufactured code and range in size from 1,137 square feet to 2,820 square feet.

From a design standpoint, Perpetual Homes' designs feature a range of architectural influences.

While the majority of their ADUs feature more traditional styles of ranches, Craftsman, and modern farmhouse styles, some of their units also feature more contemporary design influences.

In all cases though, buyers have the option to personalize their home and choose finishes like exterior and interior color schemes, countertop material, flooring, and appliance packages.

Top 10 Innovators Shaping the Industry in 2023

Thu, 30 Mar 2023 18:32:23 GMT

KATHERINE ANDERSON

We have recognized the top ten innovators of 2023, and it’s a diverse group of individuals and organizations who are changing the game in their respective fields. From cutting-edge tech startups to social enterprises that are making a difference in their communities, these innovators are pushing boundaries and finding new solutions to old problems. Each of them has a unique story to tell, but they all share a common passion for making a positive impact on the world. It’s an inspiring list that showcases the best of Forbes innovation and entrepreneurship, and it will be exciting to see what these innovators achieve in the years to come.

ADU Real Estate

Perpetual Homes , founded by Katherine Anderson, is addressing California’s housing crisis by offering affordable and sustainable Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs). With nearly four decades of experience in residential development, Anderson designed ADUs that cater to families’ needs and provide luxurious living at a low cost. Perpetual Homes’ ADUs aim to help families maintain their current configurations, whether it’s through the assistance of “boomerang” youth or “move-down” parents.

Per California law, multifamily investors can have up to two detached ADUs per property, which Perpetual Homes works with. Since Senate Bill 9 became law in 2022, the company’s customers can benefit from fee simple lot splits, which allow homeowners to construct single-family houses and accessory dwelling units on their properties. Perpetual Homes takes pride in being fully transparent about the overall cost and expectations of the project. With an overall total cost of an ADU starting in the mid-$200,000s, Perpetual Homes’ ADUs provide an affordable solution to California’s housing crisis.

News Letters

Fri, 10 Mar 2023 00:13:38 GMT

Top 10 Disruptors to Watch Out for in 2023

Fri, 03 Mar 2023 17:45:29 GMT

Innovation is constantly reshaping industries and challenging traditional norms, and 2023 promises to be no exception. From healthcare to transportation, entertainment to finance, disruptive technologies and ideas are poised to shake up established industries and create new opportunities for growth and change. In this article, we take a look at the top 10 disruptors to watch out for in 2023, and explore the ways in which they are transforming their respective fields. These individuals and organizations are breaking down barriers, pushing boundaries, and changing the game in ways that are sure to have a lasting impact on the way we live, work, and play.

ADU Real Estate-

Perpetual Homes , founded by Katherine Anderson, has launched affordable and sustainable Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) to address California's housing crisis. With over 39 years of experience in residential development, Anderson designed ADUs that meet families' needs and offer luxurious living at a low cost. Perpetual Homes ADUs aim to assist families in maintaining their current configurations, whether it be through the assistance of "boomerang" youth or "move-down" parents. Multifamily investors are allowed two detached ADUs per property by California law, which Perpetual Homes works with. Since Senate Bill 9 became law in 2022, the company's customers have enjoyed the benefits of fee simple lot splits, which allow homeowners to construct single-family houses and accessory dwelling units on their properties. The company prides itself on being fully transparent about the overall cost and expectations of the project. With an overall total cost of an ADU starting in the mid-$200,000s, Perpetual Homes' ADUs offer an affordable solution to California's housing crisis.

Private Equity- Ziad K. Abdelnour, the President & CEO of Blackhawk Partners, Inc, has over 30 years of experience on Wall Street and has backed over 125 companies and serial entrepreneurs worth a total of over $20 billion in the private equity, high yield bond, and distressed debt markets. Abdelnour's goal is to empower smart, educated, well-informed, independent people to create their wealth by explaining how the system works through his two best-sellers, "Economic Warfare: Secrets of Wealth Creation in the Age of Welfare Politics'' and "Startup Saboteurs: How Incompetence, Ego, and Small Thinking Prevent True Wealth Creation."

Biomedical - For 17 years, Shawna Koch Mishael has been dedicated to addressing the root cause of healthcare issues: the lack of available, accessible, and accurate data. As President of Healthcare & Biomedical at Seneca Global, she has developed a platform product that overcomes the challenges of tech debt, allowing companies to launch new products with clean and comprehensive data, and innovate through collaboration. Her

notable career highlights include coordinating "The Interoperability Consortium," a group of five top IT firms that presented a way forward for a National Health Information Network to President Bush II, resulting in the creation of ONCHIT

. In addition to her current role, Shawna has previously worked at IBM, where she gained extensive

experience in the healthcare and life sciences industry.

Kerri's coaching approach is based on the belief that true healing and transformation come from within. She empowers her clients to release negative thought patterns and behaviors, replenish their minds and bodies with positive energy and self-care, and rise to their fullest potential. Her coaching methods are tailored to meet the individual needs of each client, incorporating evidence-based practices and techniques such as mindfulness, positive psychology, and cognitive behavioral therapy.

Kolby's approach emphasizes the creation of teams of problem solvers who bring their unique perspectives and insights to the table, not just their expertise.

This approach not only helps companies build impactful teams of employees but also fosters a culture of innovation and growth. Kolby's work has been recognized by numerous organizations, including Starwood Hotels, Panasonic, and the Society for Human Resources Management.

Relations and was previously the Director of Global Business Operations at CA Technologies. Additionally, he has advised two former Prime Ministers in Pakistan. Stephen is a respected figure in the industry, having founded a digital certificate authority and a bio-nutrition research lab with a digital forum that he successfully grew to over 100k users.

Kathy Anderson- Perpetual Homes

Fri, 07 Oct 2022 17:30:42 GMT

Revolutionizing Housing in California

Fri, 02 Sep 2022 14:56:57 GMT

Perpetual Homes is creating prefabricated, full-sized,

modern-design Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) that

is revolutionizing housing in California

More than 161,548 Californians experience homelessness on any given day. That’s according to a report by the U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness. The

numbers, naturally, will continue to rise because of the high cost of living. Strict housing laws and the prohibitive cost of building housing has exacerbated these issues.

Today’s legislative overhauled laws that made it even more difficult to implement creative problem solving for the housing crisis. Yet now, one of the most promising concepts for adding housing is through making Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) more affordable and feasible. They don’t need to be only on very high-end properties anymore. They can be located on most single-family lots and the fees have been decreased dramatically. Katherine Anderson, a real estate and homebuilding expert with more than 38 years’ experience in the housing industry, saw an incredible niche for expanding the preconceived notion

of an ADU and knew the idea could help homeowners add to their property for a fraction of the previous price without the red tape and added fees. Soon thereafter, she then launched Perpetual Homes

“There’s a reason why we have these housing issues in California,” she told California Business Journal. “We are short two million units in California and there is a huge demand. Even when you try to develop apartments with a percentage of affordable units, they cost about $600,000 a unit to build. “That isn’t sustainable.” There have been many efforts to deploy solutions that focused on creating smaller dwellings to help solve the housing scarcity, such as Operation Tiny Home for veterans. But not everyone is able to adapt to the tiny-home life and still, the ADU fees and space requirements for a full-sized home on an existing lot were exorbitant. “I saw this opportunity being able to provide very nice, high-end cottages at an affordable price,” Anderson says. “I did a lot of research, and I came across different options with the highest quality. We decided to do manufactured housing and I applied to become a dealer with Skyline Champion. They allowed me to do custom designs with my own plans and we came up with some great options and built a model. People love our quality and the price.” One look at the Perpetual Homes photo gallery will tell you these are not your granny’s granny flat. The homes are modern luxury with a variety of exterior structures and model-home interiors. Everything is full-sized and made of sustainable materials. ADUs can range in size from a 430 squarefoot one-bedroom, one-bath unit, to three-bedroom, two-bath, 1,200 square-foot plans and custom sizes can be discussed. They have bathrooms, heating, air conditioning and laundry areas available. A décor center lets buyers pick out their high-end flooring, cabinets, countertops, tile, etc. just like any other new-home build. “ADU fees used to be over $100,000 for under 750 square feet to build on most lots,” Anderson says. “Several laws passed in 2020 at the state level to override the most limiting local city and county ordinances. These center on reducing required setback space from fences or lot lines, eliminating the need for fire sprinklers in most situations and lowering impact fees if under 750 square feet. Setback laws used to require 20 feet, but now it’s

only four feet and side yards needed to be 20 feet wide but now it’s four feet.” Assembly Bills 68 and 881 relaxed these ordinances statewide. Other elements eased include removing the minimum-lot-size requirement, reducing parking requirements and shortening the time frame for getting site plans reviewed by cities and counties. Additionally, Senate Bill 9 signed into law by Gov. Newsom in September 2021, is a revolutionary approach that will allow single-family homeowners to add an ADU to their property and then do a “lot split,” which would allow them to parcel two lots with homes as The primary requirement is that opposed to one. The primary requirement is that the owner must live in either the main house or the ADU for at least three years before they can do the split. There are many caveats so make sure to research the details but it could prove an excellent investment for many current homeowners.

Perpetual Homes handles every thing for the build including permits, utilities and the foundation. The firm also does full project management and helps arrange financing. “We do everything from A to Z,” Anderson says. “We have five drafters and an architect. We research where the sewer lines are, where the water and power connect, and we submit to he city and/or county to get your permit approvals. We’ll even do Geotech reports if the city or county requires

them. We are probably the most experienced ADU builder, in terms of entitlement, in California.” The homes are made in a factory so it is easier to get each component inspected, limiting total inspections from about 13 if you were to build an ADU from scratch to only about two, which are for the foundation. “It helps many of our clients pay their mortgage and the return on investment is 15 to 18 percent plus,” Anderson adds. “It’s a great investment. We have one client that rents their ADU to traveling nurses and others have it for parents who travel part of the year. The multifamily element is the most popular right now young adults starting out, older parents coming to live or homeowners aging in place. Some decide to move to the ADU and rent out their main house.” There’s also a new CalHFA grant for $40,000 for low-to-moderate income levels. If you qualify, you can put the money toward an ADU and it does not have to be paid back. “It’s really rewarding to see how we’re able to help family members in particular,” Anderson says. “We have so many ways we can customize for their needs and a portion of each sale goes to help the homeless crisis in California.” Even if you’re not in the market for a full ADU – or want to start small – Perpetual Homes offers an “office shack” option, which can be an office, art, music, or yoga studio, she shed/man cave, kids’ playroom, gym – whatever you’d like – as a separate dwelling.

Hot New Trend For Real Estate Investors: Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)

Thu, 25 Aug 2022 21:43:51 GMT

This new revolution of the California housing space is thriving and one of the most successful companies leading the charge is Perpetual Homes with its prefabricated, full-sized, modern-design homes. Thanks to new legislation, ADUs aren't just for investors' high-end properties anymore. They can now be located on most single-family lots and the fees have been decreased dramatically.

M ore than 161,548 Californians experience homelessness on any given day. That’s according to a report by the U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness. The numbers, naturally, will continue to rise because of the high cost of living. Strict housing laws and the prohibitive cost of building housing has exacerbated these issues.

Katherine Anderson, a real estate and homebuilding expert with more than 38 years’ experience in the housing industry, saw an incredible niche for expanding the preconceived notion of an ADU and knew the idea could help homeowners add to their property for a fraction of the previous price without the red tape and added fees.

Soon thereafter, she then launched Perpetual Homes .

“That isn’t sustainable.”

There have been many efforts to deploy solutions that focused on creating smaller dwellings to help solve the housing scarcity, such as Operation Tiny Home for veterans. But not everyone is able to adapt to the tiny-home life and still, the ADU fees and space requirements for a full-sized home on an existing lot were exorbitant.

“I saw this opportunity being able to provide very nice, high-end cottages at an affordable price,” Anderson says. “I did a lot of research, and I came across different options with the highest quality. We decided to do manufactured housing and I applied to become a dealer with Skyline Champion. They allowed me to do custom designs with my own plans and we came up with some great options and built a model. People love our quality and the price.”

One look at the Perpetual Homes photo gallery will tell you these are not your granny’s granny flat. The homes are modern luxury with a variety of exterior structures and model-home interiors. Everything is full-sized and made of sustainable materials. ADUs can range in size from a 430 square-foot one-bedroom, one-bath unit, to three-bedroom, two-bath, 1,200 square-foot plans and custom sizes can be discussed. They have bathrooms, heating, air conditioning and laundry areas available. A décor center lets buyers pick out their high-end flooring, cabinets, countertops, tile, etc. just like any other new-home build.

“ADU fees used to be over $100,000 for under 750 square feet to build on most lots,” Anderson says. “Several laws passed in 2020 at the state level to override the most limiting local city and county ordinances. These center on reducing required setback space from fences or lot lines, eliminating the need for fire sprinklers in most situations and lowering impact fees if under 750 square feet. Setback laws used to require 20 feet rear setbacks and 5-15 side yard setbacks, but now both rear and side yard setbacks only need to be 4 feet.”

Assembly Bills 68 and 881 relaxed these ordinances statewide. Other elements eased include removing the minimum-lot-size requirement, reducing parking requirements and shortening the time frame for getting site plans reviewed by cities and counties. Additionally, Senate Bill 9 , signed into law by Gov. Newsom in September 2021, is a revolutionary approach that will allow single-family homeowners to add an ADU to their property and then do a “lot split,” which would allow them to parcel two lots with homes as opposed to one.

The primary requirement is that the owner must live in either the main house or the ADU for at least three years before they can do the split. There are many caveats so make sure to research the details but it could prove an excellent investment for many current homeowners.

Perpetual Homes handles everything for the build including permits, utilities and the foundation. The firm also does full project management and helps arrange financing.

“We do everything from A to Z,” Anderson says. “We have five drafters and an architect. We research where the sewer lines are, where the water and power connect, and we submit to the city and/or county to get your permit approvals. We’ll even do Geotech reports if the city or county requires them. We are probably the most experienced ADU builder, in terms of entitlement, in California.”

Custom stick built homes require 13 on-site inspections; however, since Perpetual Homes are built in a factory, most of the inspections are done in the factory, resulting in the need for only two on-site inspections.

“It’s a great investment,” Anderson says. “It helps many of our clients pay their mortgage and the return on investment is 15 to 18 percent plus. We have one client that rents their ADU to traveling nurses and others have it for parents who travel part of the year. The multifamily element is the most popular right now – young adults starting out, older parents coming to live or homeowners aging in place. Some decide to move to the ADU and rent out their main house.”

There’s also a new CalHFA grant for $40,000 for low-to-moderate income levels. If you qualify, you can put the money towards an ADU and it does not have to be paid back.

“It’s really rewarding to see how we’re able to help family members in particular,” Anderson says. “We have so many ways we can customize for their needs and a portion of each sale goes to help the homeless crisis in California.”

Even if you’re not in the market for a full ADU – or want to start small – Perpetual Homes offers an “office shack” option, which can be an office, art, music or yoga studio, she shed/man cave, kids’ playroom, gym – whatever you’d like – as a separate dwelling.

ADU Construction Financing: Opportunities To Expand Access For Homeownership

Wed, 20 Jul 2022 14:05:53 GMT

Executive Summary

When a homeowner adds an accessory dwelling unit (“ADU”) to their property, they not only gain financial and lifestyle benefits, but they also help close the housing shortage in the United States with homes that typically rent at prices below the median. Though many homeowners want to build an ADU,

they are often prevented from doing so because they have difficulty financing the upfront costs. While ADUs have potential to be a tool to bridge the racial wealth gap and add financial stability for lower- and moderate- income homeowners, to date, comparatively affluent and, in many regions, whiter, homeowners have disproportionately built ADUs.

Informed by a literature review and interviews with 30+ experts in the field, this paper maps the existing ADU construction financing landscape and identifies promising financial products, barriers to their utility, and recommendations to help ensure that the benefits of ADUs are realized by all homeowners.

Of homeowners who have built an ADU, most have leveraged a combination of cash and a mortgage to finance construction. Mortgages, loans backed by real estate, are popular as they are widely available, feature relatively low interest rates, and have the potential to produce substantial cash for the homeowner to cover the cost of ADU construction. There are a few main mortgage products that homeowners typically use: 1) first lien products such as purchase loans, cash-out refinance, or renovation loans and 2) second lien products such as home equity lines of credit (HELOCs) or home equity loans. Homeowners who hold significant equity in their home are generally well served by purchase loans, cash-out refinances, and second lien loans. Renovation loans, which are sized based on the expected post-renovation value of the home, are theoretically well suited to help homeowners without significant equity but remain relatively unused.

We found that renovation loans, with reforms, may be a useful tool to enable some homeowners who are currently excluded from the financing market to build an ADU. Our team investigated renovation loans backed by government agencies, such as Fannie Mae and the Federal Housing Administration, to identify issues that reduce their efficacy for the construction of ADUs. We found three specific inhibitors:

first, that agencies do not recognize income that an ADU may produce;
second, that appraisals often undervalue ADUs;
and finally, that agencies have constrictive guidelines which limit where and who can build an ADU.

Further, we identified other issues with renovation loans which help explain why they are a generally unpopular mortgage product including that they tend to be expensive for borrowers, can take a long time to close, have relatively high rates of denial, and often make finding a qualified contractor more difficult as contractors tend to disfavor projects funded by renovation loans.

Finally, we found other non-government-backed products for financing an ADU such as bridge financing, ground leases, personal property loans, and shared appreciation models that hold promise for the longer term and could be scaled up to better serve homeowners. This paper highlights these financial instruments to encourage further research and policy discussion.

The Housing Market Squeeze Pushes Renters Into Bidding Wars

Thu, 14 Jul 2022 21:34:54 GMT

Is The Homeowner Cornerstone of the American Dream Fading?

When Sarah Da Costa had to find a new apartment in Chicago this year — with her husband, baby and dog — the whole process seemed weird. First, there were open houses, something she thought was just for buying homes. At one of them, "literally, people couldn't even fit in the house, and we got there right when it started." Then, she says, the listing agent told her to "submit your best and final!" Her real estate agent said yes, that meant above the asking rent>

Da Costa had already lost out once, so they agreed to offer more. "On this place that was actually smaller than the place we were living in before, and that was more expensive, we offered $150 more a month in rent," she says. "And we still didn't get it. "That happened again and again. And it's not only in big cities.

Brandon Schwedes of Port Orange, Fla., did not plan to move this year, and the 40-year-old single dad — a logistics account executive — didn't have money saved up for it. But his landlord said she wanted to sell the place, so Schwedes started looking around. That's when he got another shock. "I found the house that I was living in posted for rent for $2,000," he says. "And I was paying $1,400." The landlord said she knew that was out of his range. Schwedes' rent was already nearly half his take-home pay. Still, he applied for another place listed at $1,750 and was told he had a lock on it. But the next day the agent said sorry, someone else had just offered $200 more, sight unseen.

Schwedes eventually found a place at his former rent, a much smaller townhouse with no yard or garage and farther from his kids' school. He says the whole process has shaken his longtime hope that at some point he'd be able to buy a home. He wants to build equity and have something to pass on to his children. He also craves a place he can decorate, where the family could always gather for holidays and future grandkids could visit, "the stuff that you think is normal, that you see in movies growing up."

Now he feels this cornerstone of the American dream will never happen for him.

"I've lived in the same area for 20 years. I know what these houses were renting for, and what they were selling for," he says. "But what's occurred over the last two years, it's just like boom. ... Destructio n."

Historically low vacancies have pushed rents to record highs!

Many forces have combined to create a rental market that's setting records for a lack of vacancies and high costs . A big one is a historic shortage of housing.

Jessica Lautz of the National Association of Realtors says the United States "has been underproducing both rental units and homes for purchase for more than a decade now," since the last housing crash. The shortfall is in the millions and is especially acute for single-family starter homes. The amount of new construction that's been started is finally up, though supply chain delays mean it's taking longer to complete homes and apartments.

Meanwhile, rising mortgage rates are making it more expensive to buy a home, forcing many to stay in the rental market. And adding to all of this, the massive cohort of millennials hitting their late 20s and early 30s are eager to move out on their own.

"And so as we see this demand really push up against this huge wave of young adults starting household formation," Lautz says. "There's no quick solution."

In the first quarter of this year, a time when the rental market usually cools, apartment occupancy hit another all-time high — an extraordinary 97.6% . Asking rents for new leases were up 15.2% nationally, and far more than that in many places.

"There's a severe shortage of rental housing at all price points and in essentially every city across the country," wrote Jay Parsons, the head of economics and industry principals for RealPage. He attributes much of the demand to unprecedented wage growt h.

It's a seller's market, but landlords are also struggling with higher costs!

Bash ir Nuruddin and his wife own nine rental units in Chicago and one came open recently. "I had so many phone calls that I just stopped answering calls," he says. "Over 100 people, between emails and phone calls, contacted me about that apartment." He's had bidding wars, but he says they make him feel smarmy so he no longer allows them. In fact, he prides himself on offering just-under market rate. But he says the past two years have been rough. One tenant stopped paying for most of a year, yet he couldn't evict her because of the pandemic moratorium. When she did leave, he discovered major damage to the place. "Just her apartment alone, between lost rents and in repairs, I spent over $25,000," he says.

In addition, "I really can't remember how many appliances we replaced in the last year." He figures so much working from home took a toll on refrigerators, washers and air conditioners. And he has seen bids for repair work go up 20%-30% as inflation has increased. Given all that, when the $1,200-a-month, three-bedroom unit came open, Nuruddin listed it for $1,785. "I raised the rent by this drastic amount, not because that's what I would typically do," he says, "but because I have to recoup all these losses that I've had over the last year." He calculates that in the current market, he probably could have gotten $1,800-$2,000 for it. In fact, all three people he showed it to offered more, but he rejected the higher bids.

Nuruddin says he's also feeling the flip side of the housing market. Renting apartments is his retirement plan, and he needs to buy more buildings to have enough income long term. He's been saving for a down payment, but inflation is eating away at that, and now higher mortgage rates will make his next purchase far more expensive.

Even though real estate is his retirement plan, Nuruddin thinks housing should be considered a human right. He'd like to see more rent control and a bigger investment in public housing. And while building more to address the historic shortage is good, he says it should be "the kind of housing that's actually going to solve the problem, not just more McMansions or quick flips that start falling apart after five or 10 years."

Some low-income renters are being shut out completely.

The tight market and skyrocketing rents are making it even tougher for those who have always struggled to find housing.

"Just the act of applying for apartments is incredibly unaffordable for low income tenants," says Lindsey Siegel of Atlanta Legal Aid Society. "Once you pay that application fee once or twice or three times, you don't have any money left to pay that first month's rent or the security deposit. And then you're stuck."

Dana Johnson was given an eviction notice after losing her job as a property leasing agent last year. The 54-year-old lives northeast of Atlanta and was determined to stay in her one-bedroom apartment so she wouldn't have to pay hundreds more in rent on the open market. She managed to get emergency rental aid to pay what is back due. But the landlord decided Johnson needs to move out anyway.

"I am just going to have to look for as many jobs as I can get, because I have to pay rent that is astronomical right now," she says. To help out, Johnson has already started her own company to sell dog apparel. She has no family in Georgia and says relatives in New York City are already in a crowded living condition. If she can't patch together enough income, Johnson says, she'll probably look for someone else who's also struggling and needs a roommate.

Senator Toni G. Atkins, 39th Senate District

Tue, 18 Jan 2022 19:21:19 GMT

SB 9 (Atkins): California HOME

(Housing Opportunity & More Efficiency) Act

SB 9 (Atkins), as amended April 5, 2021

IN BRIEF

Senate Bill 9 promotes small-scale neighborhood residential development by streamlining the process for a homeowner to create a duplex or subdivide an existing lot. Any new housing created as a result of this bill must meet a specific list of qualifications that ensure the protection of historic districts, environmental quality, and existing tenants vulnerable to displacement.

THE ISSUE

California will need an estimated 1.8 million new homes by 2025 in order to meet demand, yet on average only 80,000 new homes are built per year. California’s continued housing shortage is a major source of stress on the state’s economic recovery and fiscal health, as well as its social welfare, medical, and public safety systems. The severe mismatch between housing demand and available supply disproportionately impacts the state’s lowest-income families – putting them at greater risk for housing instability and homelessness. COVID-19 has further exacerbated these issues. The most effective way to address these issues is to provide more housing that is affordable to low- and moderate-income families.

THE SOLUTION

SB 9 is an integral part of the Senate housing package, “Building Opportunities for All," which proposes a multifaceted approach to combatting California’s housing crisis. The bill establishes a statewide path for homeowners seeking to create a duplex or subdivide an existing residential parcel by ensuring local governments approve qualified applications without discretionary review, eliminating overly burdensome requirements that slows qualified applications.

This bill builds off the well-documented success of accessory dwelling units (ADUs), which have expanded options for homeowners who wish to be part of the solution in solving the housing crisis. In just two years, ADUs grew to comprise one-fifth of all new housing stock in Los Angeles. At a time when many Californians are experiencing economic insecurity caused by the pandemic, this bill will generate affordable rental units. It also provides flexibility for multigenerational housing by allowing homeowners to build a modest unit on their property so that their aging parent or adult child can have an affordable place to live. SB 9 expands opportunities for existing homeowners to build equity while also creating new homeownership opportunities for those locked out of the market. Finally, SB 9 strikes an appropriate balance between respecting local control and creating the environment and opportunity for small-scale neighborhood development that benefits the broader community. Recent amendments clarify that up to four units are permitted on a single family parcel as a result of the lot split provisions of the bill. Additionally, SB 9 empowers local jurisdictions to enact an owner occupancy requirement.

This bill includes key safeguards to ensure:

Local governments maintain control of zoning and design standards.

Community character is respected.

Tenants are protected.

Historic neighborhoods are preserved.

FOR MORE INFORMATION
Misa Lennox | Office of Senator Toni G. Atkins
Misa.Lennox@sen.ca.gov | (916) 651-4039

California’s SB9 Housing Law Effect on Single-Family Zoning

Mon, 20 Sep 2021 13:14:49 GMT

Senate Bill 9, promoted by Senate leader Toni Atkins and supported by Assembly Speaker Anthony Rendon, both Democrats, would make it easier to build smaller second units on what are now single-family properties. That could include up to four units, such as duplexes or homes with attached living units, if the lot is split into two equal parcels under the bill. (Nhat V. Meyer/Bay Area News Group)

Gov. Gavin Newsom this week signed a pair of bills into law that effectively put an end to traditional single-family zoning restrictions in most neighborhoods statewide.

Senate Bills 9 and 10, which take effect Jan. 1, 2022, will make it easier for Californians to build more than one housing unit on many properties that for decades have been reserved exclusively for single-family homes and will give cities greater flexibility to place small apartment complexes in neighborhoods

near public transit.

Although the laws represent two new approaches toward alleviating the state’s housing crisis, experts say neither is likely to produce the number of units needed to fully resolve it.

Here are answers to some questions you may have about these new laws.

What is Senate Bill 9?

Senate Bill 9 is the most controversial of the two new laws. It allows property owners to split a single-family lot into two lots, add a second home to their lot or split their lot into two and place duplexes on each. The last option would create four housing units on a property currently limited to a single-family house.

The new law will mark a shift from current policies that allow only two large units — a stand-alone house and an accessory dwelling unit — on single-family lots, as well as an attached junior unit no larger than 500 square feet.

Under the new law, cities and counties across California will be required to approve development proposals that meet specified size and design standards.

What are the caveats?

The law is designed to create additional housing while also preserving low-income, affordable units.

A proposed project under this new law cannot result in the demolition or alteration of affordable or rent-controlled housing or market-rate housing that has been occupied by a tenant in the past three years. Properties listed as historic landmarks or those located within a historic district are off-limits for new development. Wetlands, farmland and properties at high risk of fire or flooding are also exempt.

If someone chooses to split their property in two, each new lot must be at least 1,200 square feet, according to the new law.

Any unit created as a result of the law cannot be used for short-term rentals. They must be rented for a term longer than 30 days.

Who can do this?

Homeowners or landlords can apply to upzone their properties through their local jurisdiction, but only if they plan to live on the property for a while.

Property owners must sign an affidavit stating they will occupy one of the housing units as their primary residence for at least three years after splitting their property or adding additional units.

Does this law allow for offices and new housing units on single-family properties?

No. Any new units created under SB 9 must only be used for residential purposes.

Do cities and counties have to abide by this new law?

Under SB 9, local government officials may only deny a development application if they find that the proposed project would have a “specific, adverse impact” on “public health and safety or the physical environment” and there are no feasible and satisfactory mitigation options.

Will local rules about maximum square footage, building height and parking apply?

Proposals under this new law must adhere to objective zoning and design review standards established by local cities and counties. Developments must still follow local zoning rules such as those governing height and yard size requirements.

No parking is required for additional units if the property is within a half-mile of a major public transit stop. However, a local agency can require up to one parking space per unit if there are no frequent transit stops nearby.

Will this law put a dent in California’s housing shortage?

A recent study by the Terner Center for Housing Innovation at UC Berkeley estimated that just 5.4% of the state’s current single-family lots has the potential to be developed under SB 9, making construction of up to 714,000 new housing units financially feasible. That’s only a fraction of the 3.5 million new housing units Gov. Newsom wants to see built by 2025.

What is Senate Bill 10?

Senate Bill 10 eases the process for local governments to rezone neighborhoods near mass transit or in urban areas to increase density with apartment complexes of up to 10 units per property. The new legislation also allows cities to bypass lengthy review requirements under the California Environmental Quality Act in an attempt to help reduce costs and the time it takes for projects to be approved.

Gov. Newsom abolishes single-family zoning in California

Fri, 17 Sep 2021 14:52:35 GMT

In one of his first actions after surviving an election seeking to oust him from office, Gov. Gavin Newsom on Thursday essentially abolished single-family zoning in California — and green-lighted a series of bills intended to bolster the state’s housing production.

By signing Senate Bill 9 into law, Newsom opened the door for the development of up to four residential units on single-family lots across California. The move follows a growing push by local governments to allow multi-family dwellings in more residential neighborhoods. Berkeley voted to eliminate single-family zoning by Dec. 2022, and San Jose is set to consider the issue next month.

While opponents fear such a sweeping change will destroy the character of residential neighborhoods, supporters hail it as a necessary way to combat the state’s persistent housing crisis and correct city zoning laws that have contributed to racial segregation.

“The housing affordability crisis is undermining the California Dream for families across the state, and threatens our long-term growth and prosperity,” Newsom wrote in a news release. “Making a meaningful impact on this crisis will take bold investments, strong collaboration across sectors and political courage from our leaders and communities to do the right thing and build housing for all.”

The crisis has long been a major concern among Bay Area voters — 89% said homelessness was an extremely serious or very serious problem when polled in January 2020. And 86% said the cost of housing was an extremely serious or very serious problem, according to the poll conducted for this news organization and the Silicon Valley Leadership Group.

Newsom took office with bold promises to attack California’s drastic housing shortage and in his first year landed a budget that included a record $1 billion to fight homelessness and $1.75 billion to build more homes, launched a homelessness task force and put forward a plan that for the first time would fine cities that defied production rules. This year, Newsom has made big commitments to housing Californians, including signing a $12 billion bill to build homeless housing and support services for unhoused people.

Newsom previously had shaken up single-family zoning by signing legislation that allowed more homeowners to build in-law units on their properties. SB 9 takes that further, allowing property owners to build up to two duplexes on what was once a single-family lot.

Slow-growth group Livable California , which has pushed back against SB 9, called it a “radical density experiment” and worried developers would use it to remake neighborhoods without community input.

A property must meet certain criteria under SB 9 before it can be developed into multi-family housing. It must be large enough, for example, and the owner must live there for at least three years before splitting the property. A study by UC Berkeley’s Terner Center for Housing Innovation found that the new law likely would add, at most, fewer than 700,000 housing units across California.

Newsom on Thursday also signed SB 10, creating a process that lets local governments streamline new multi-family housing projects of up to 10 units built near transit or in urban areas. That new legislation also simplifies zoning requirements under the California Environmental Quality Act, which developers complain can bog down projects for years.

“SB 10 provides one important approach: making it dramatically easier and faster for cities to zone for more housing,” the bill’s author, Sen. Scott Wiener, D-San Francisco, wrote in a news release. “It shouldn’t take five or 10 years for cities to re-zone, and SB 10 gives cities a powerful new tool to get the job done quickly.”

Newsom also signed SB 8, which extends the Housing Crisis Act of 2019. The act, which speeds up the approval process for housing projects, curtails local governments’ ability to reduce the number of units allowed on a site and limits housing application fee hikes, was set to expire in 2025. Now it will go through 2030.

Finally, Newsom green-lighted AB 1174 — a bill that specifically targets the Vallco housing, office and retail project underway in Cupertino. The city was forced to grant Vallco special approval under a new law that fast-tracks certain residential developments. That approval is good for three years, and Cupertino officials recently said Vallco’s is set to expire this month . AB 1174 clarifies that projects delayed by litigation — as Vallco was — get more time.

“Closing this loophole will protect thousands of new housing units statewide against the whims of local opposition,” Jim Wunderman, president and CEO of the Bay Area Council, wrote in a news release. “Too often, the legal system is abused to block housing that we so desperately need. AB 1174 fulfills the intent of past housing reform legislation to speed more housing construction in California.”

California Bill Could Dramatically Increase Housing Stock

Tue, 31 Aug 2021 19:22:39 GMT

California passes a zoning law designed to create more housing.

California legislators just took a huge step to address the state’s housing crisis by allowing homeowners to double up. The state assembly passed a bill today (Aug. 26) that allows for two-unit buildings to be built on lots previously zoned for single-family homes.

It’s a significant reversal of decades of policy built around restrictive single-family zoning . In California, as across the US, allowing for one housing unit to be built per parcel of land has been standard. It’s what gave rise the suburbs as we know them, but has also been used as a tool in racist housing policies that have excluded Black, brown, and Native Americans from homeownership. In recent years, restrictive zoning has been a primary driver of the state’s affordable housing shortage . The median home price in California has risen 27% in the past year alone, and currently sits at more than $800,000.

The new bill allows for more housing density by permitting two units—duplex-style builds, for example—per parcel of land. It further allows homeowners to subdivide their properties, creating up to four units on a single lot. These rules would preempt local zoning ordinances and apply to residential areas across the state. The bill passed the Senate in May, and awaits the signature of governor Gavin Newsom, who has not yet signaled his decision.

YIMBYs vs. NIMBYs

The vote comes on the heels of another piece of legislation, passed Aug. 23, that makes it easier to build multi-family housing of up to 10 units in certain areas by removing some of the approval processes. Together, the two measures are a big win for advocacy groups like California YIMBY , who have long argued for upzoning —which allows for denser development—as a way to achieve more affordable housing. State senator Scott Weiner, who sponsored the bill passed earlier in the week, tweeted his support for the measure.

On the other side of the argument are those who want to preserve single-family housing out of concerns about crowding, resource management, and neighborhood character. The city of Palo Alto, which has been at the center of California’s housing fight since the tech boom sent home prices soaring, submitted a letter in opposition to the duplex bill earlier this year.

A national push for zoning reform

The central role of zoning laws in California’s housing crisis mirrors a similar dynamic throughout the US. One analysis by mortgage corporation Freddie Mac found that the US had a housing deficit of 3.8 million units at the end of 2020. The Biden administration has tried to tackle this issue by incentivizing local governments to loosen restrictions on zoning laws. An early version of Biden’s proposed infrastructure bill included funding for grants and tax credits for upzoning. The provision did not make it into the final bipartisan version of the bill, but is included in the more expansive $3.5 billion budget reconciliation bill currently making its way through the House of Representatives.

Meanwhile, other localities have taken up the question of ending single-family zoning as well. In 2019, Minneapolis became the first to implement a citywide ban on single-family housing mandates, allowing for duplexes and triplexes to be built everywhere. Earlier this year, Berkeley, California, voted to begin a two-year process to change its zoning rules. Oregon is the only other state that has enacted more inclusionary housing laws, with a 2019 law that allows for duplexes, triplexes, and even fourplexes in some cities with large populations.

California Lawmakers Pave the Way for More Housing

Tue, 31 Aug 2021 19:21:51 GMT

To ease an affordability crisis, the Legislature voted to open suburbs to development, allowing two-units on lots long reserved for single-family homes.

California needs more housing. More condominiums, more townhouses near mass transit, more suburban apartment buildings. There is no other solution to the state’s desperate homelessness problem and a deepening housing affordability crisis, according to a broad collection of economists and housing experts.

Yet for years the State Legislature has struggled to follow their prescription to increase urban density, often because lawmakers fear angering suburban voters, whose preferences for single-family home living have been regarded as politically sacrosanct.

On Thursday the Legislature took a big step toward rewriting that bargain, advancing a bill that would allow two-unit buildings on lots that for generations have been reserved exclusively for single-family homes. The move is one of several piecemeal housing measures — big enough to make a difference, not so sweeping that they fail to advance — that have managed to endure the legislative gantlet after years of high-profile failures.

The bill was championed by housing advocates as modest but significant progress toward easing the state’s housing shortage. By allowing two units per parcel and permitting property owners to subdivide their lots, the law would increase density to as many as four units on a single-family plot. The bill was furiously opposed by homeowners and local government groups who said it “ crushes single-family zoning ” and would be “the beginning of the end of homeownership in California.”

The duplex measure, called Senate Bill 9, passed the California Senate in May and on Thursday made it through the Assembly by a vote of 45-19. “This is a gentle density increase that respects the character of neighborhoods,” Toni Atkins, the bill’s author and president pro tem of the California Senate, said in an interview. “It’s a modest production bill, and it’s one that will give opportunities to people who haven’t been able to own a home.”

The bill will now go to the Senate for a concurrence vote. Gov. Gavin Newsom, a Democrat who faces a recall election on Sept. 14, has not made any public statements on the bill, and his office had no comment on whether he would sign it. Even if he is recalled by voters, Mr. Newsom could still sign the bill before he leaves office.

“This is a strong statement that says we cannot live in a world in which we lock off the vast majority of residential land,” said Ben Metcalf, managing director of the Terner Center for Housing Innovation. “Our communities need to be able to change and grow because we are going to grow as a country, and it can’t all be in the urban core and periphery — we need to open up all communities.”

Zoning law — the arcane system of hyperlocal rules for what can be built where — isn’t usually a subject that people get fired up about. Anyone who has driven across a city and passed from warehouse district to downtown skyscrapers to tree-lined streets flanked by low-slung homes can discern there’s a hidden order. But aside from planners, developers and the gadflies who attend late night city council meetings, the average citizen regards it the way they regard their electric company or municipal water system. It’s already there, it basically works, and that’s about that.

But suddenly zoning reform has been thrust to the top of the urban agenda. Cities including Charlotte, N.C.; Minneapolis; Portland, Ore.; and Sacramento have moved to allow multifamily buildings on lots previously limited to single-family houses. The issue is now starting to attract higher-level attention: In the past two years 10 states, including Connecticut , New Hampshire , Montana and North Carolina , have considered bills to reform local zoning rules, according to Salim Furth, a senior research fellow at the Mercatus Center, who tracks state and local zoning legislation.

So far only Oregon has passed a state-level ban on single-family house zoning. If California’s S.B. 9 gets final passage and is signed, it would add a state of 40 million to the list.

Every particular zoning effort has its own quirks, but in general they center on two simultaneous strategies: Making it easier for property owners to develop backyard cottages that they can rent to tenants or family, and allowing small condominium and apartment buildings in single-family house neighborhoods where they’ve historically been outlawed. The buzzwords are “light density,” though of course the opponents think it’s anything but.

“What is so alarming to me is what this does to due process,” said Susan Kirsch, founder of Catalysts for Local Control, an advocacy group in the San Francisco Bay Area. “These are bills where there is no public notice required about what happens to the parcel next door. There is no way for you to hear about it, no way for your city council to look at this project, and no recourse. How is it we have this sham of a democratic process?”

S.B. 9 was one of two high-profile housing bills to pass the Assembly this week, and both were the subject of a concerted opposition campaign by suburban cities and groups that push for local control and low-density living . The other bill, S.B. 10 , written by State Senator Scott Wiener, a Democrat from San Francisco, would allow local governments to rezone parcels up to 10 units with no environmental review, which would speed development by shrinking the rezoning process by several years.

“We’ve shown our determination to move the needle on housing in the face of intense opposition,” Mr. Wiener said.

Zoning has historically been regarded as a local issue, which is why opponents of S.B. 9 and other state-level measures describe them as government overreach. The challenge state legislators are trying to solve is U.S. metropolitan areas operate as a contiguous economy, while their housing markets are fractured by dozens of cities and suburbs that each have their own regulations and are leery of the political costs of tinkering with them. Even if cities do, as some have, the benefits are slim unless their neighbors do the same.

“It’s like acting on climate change — you can’t count on everyone to step forward in unison in a way that gives everyone confidence that they are getting a benefit for their cost,” said Michael Andersen, a senior researcher at Sightline Institute, an urban think tank based in Seattle. “Zoning reform has a political cost at every level, but only has political benefit at the collective level.”

In California, where the median home price recently eclipsed $800,000 and more than 100,000 people sleep outside each night, a vision of a single-family home with a yard to enjoy the sun is encoded in residents’ dreams. The move to pass zoning reform has been a yearslong odyssey with the twists and turns of a screenplay.

It began in 2018, when Mr. Wiener introduced a bill, S.B. 827 , that would have allowed eight-story buildings near major transit stops, regardless of local zoning rules. After the bill failed, Mr. Wiener introduced a similar measure called S.B. 50, which was voted down in early 2020. Moments after the S.B. 50 vote, Ms. Atkins gave a floor speech in which she said “the status quo cannot stand” and vowed “a housing production bill will succeed this year.”

The next month she convened a Senate housing group that designed a new package of bills that included a duplex bill similar to this year’s S.B. 9. The measure passed the Senate and made it to the Assembly floor on the last day of the legislative session. As the clock crept toward midnight, Buffy Wicks, a Democratic Assembly member from Oakland who was not allowed to vote by proxy, arrived masked and holding her newborn to give an impassioned speech in favor of the bill. The bill passed the Assembly but was unable to clear a Senate concurrence vote before the session ended.

Single-family-only zoning is something of a California creation: In 1916, Berkeley became what was probably the first U.S. city to restrict neighborhoods to one-family homes. A century later it’s become a bedrock value that homeowners across the nation euphemistically describe as maintaining “neighborhood character.”

According to an analysis of the bill by the Terner Center, S.B. 9 would enable the creation of an estimated 700,000 more units in the state’s existing neighborhoods (California permits roughly 100,000 new housing units each year). The bill’s crucial feature, Ms. Atkins said, is that by allowing homeowners to split their lots it would expand homeownership instead of just rental housing.

In a series of speeches before the vote, phrases like “gradual density” were countered with “planning chaos.” Some Assembly members said it would expand generational wealth. Others said it would destroy it.

The drama underscores the central role housing plays in cities, the economy and people’s everyday lives. The United States’ property market is a multi-trillion dollar behemoth , and homes — most of them single-family houses — are the primary asset for a large majority of U.S. households. By giving shape to neighborhoods and deciding what sorts of people get to live on which blocks, zoning is a kind of urban source code whose reach is so broad and pervasive that the politics of reform become intractable and often confounding.

For instance, since zoning laws have a long history of racial exclusion and often act as a means of reserving high-performing schools for suburban homeowners, zoning fights are often framed as a battle between renters and wealthy landowners. But in California and many other places that have tried to reform their laws, a strange-bedfellows coalition of suburbanites fearing apartments and low-income renters fearing gentrification has united to resist change.

The lesson in all this seems to be that in housing legislation, smaller is better. Despite the setbacks for big zoning bills, the California Legislature has over the past few years passed several smaller measures that, among other things, make it easier to build backyard units and force its biggest metro areas to plan for more housing in the future.

“S.B. 50 was a big bill that had something for everyone but also something for everyone to hate,” said Brian Hanlon, chief executive of California YIMBY (short for “yes in my backyard”), an advocacy group that sponsored S.B. 50 in 2019 and S.B. 10 this year. “There are still a number of groups opposed to some of these smaller bills — but only to some and not all, and crucially, they aren’t all focused on one bill.”

Millennials Scored Housing Win in the California Legislature

Tue, 31 Aug 2021 17:44:08 GMT

California Vote to Ban Single-Family Zoning Could Solve Housing Crisis

California is the epicenter of America's housing crisis.

For years, the Golden State just hasn't provided enough affordable homes, for the simple reason that it's just not dense enough. It's largely illegal to build anything that's not a single-family home in the state.

That just might be changing.

On Thursday, state lawmakers voted to advance Senate Bill 9, which would permit the construction of two-unit buildings on lots that have long been zoned for single-family homes. The legislation will now make its way back to the California Senate for a concurrence vote before it reaches Gov. Gavin Newsom's desk.

At the root of the affordability problem is a lack of new housing, with construction not keeping up with population or jobs growth.

According to Census Bureau population and housing unit estimates , California's population grew 5.9% between 2010 and 2019, while the number of housing units only grew by 5.0%. That suggests not enough new homes for the Golden State's new residents:

When you factor in the explosive job growth over the decade — a 22% increase in the number of nonfarm payroll jobs between 2010 and 2019 , fueled by the ongoing concentration of the tech industry in places like Silicon Valley — the lack of new construction is even more apparent:

While Newsom hasn't indicated whether or not he'll sign the bill into law, its passage would represent a colossal shift in attitudes toward housing and a potential breakthrough in the generational warfare over housing pitting the NIMBYs, or "not in my backyard" boomers against the YIMBY, or "yes in my backyard" millennials.

Before SB9, the millennial YIMBYs have taken L after L, as NIMBYs have protected their property values at the expense of nearly anyone trying to find an affordable home. Maybe the next generation of American housing could look very different.

It began in Berkeley

The YIMBYs' first key victory was in Berkeley, the heartland of NIMBYism, earlier this year. Over 100 years ago, in 1916, the Bay Area city was the first in the US to enact a single-family zoning law. It did so on explicitly racist grounds, as whiter families could more easily afford single-family homes.

Yet after decades of inaction, the Berkeley City Council voted unanimously last February to end single-family zoning. (Oregon is so far the only state to ban single-family zoning.)

Berkeley's mayor, Jesse Arreguin, is himself a NIMBY-turned-YIMBY. As recently as 2018, he called an upzoning bill "a declaration of war against our neighborhoods," but a year later he told East Bay Express that his "thinking around the housing crisis has definitely changed."

This June, Arreguin told NBC that Berkeley's history of zoning was " rooted in racism " and the city's lack of affordable housing was an "emergency." But Berkeley was just a warmup.

An analysis of SB9 by the Terner Center estimated it would lead to just 700,000 more units in the state, a sharp contrast with just around 100,000 new housing units each year, The New York Times reports .

Ali Wolf, chief economist at housing analytics firm Zonda, told Insider that California will probably remain undersupplied for another decade, "so there will be people who will be very excited about the zoning changes. I, for one, am in support of it."

Homeowners and local officials have long cheered zoning as a way to protect property values and ensure neighborhoods don't become too densely populated, but YIMBYs argue that limiting home supply leads to a surge in prices and several related issues, such as supercommuting and mass migrations to smaller cities. During the pandemic, the Bay Area's housing crisis saw tech workers flood into cities such as Austin and Denver, driving prices up there.

The YIMBY movement allows millennials and Gen Zers to tackle several economic problems at once, because improving home affordability can have knock-on effects throughout the US economy. Greater residential density would be more energy-efficient, thus helping curb climate change. It would improve congestion by funneling more travel to public transit and begin to address gentrification by keeping prices at sustainable levels.

Zoning, then, sits at the center of some of millennials' biggest economic concerns, and SB9 is a major development in the long-running NIMBY wars.

Add value in your backyard with an ADU

Tue, 15 Jun 2021 15:09:34 GMT

It is possible to build affordable and sustainable housing that enables families to live close, maintain privacy, and build wealth.

Perpetual Homes ADU of Danville offers an exciting new way to help people into their own homes. The solution is to add a backyard home, also known as an accessory dwelling unit (ADU). These sustainable and turnkey ADUs built in backyards are energy efficient homes also known as granny flats, in-law units, secondary dwelling units and tiny houses.

These custom designed cottages are loaded with full-size kitchen appliances, shaker cabinets, quartz or granite countertops, high vaulted ceilings and lots of natural light — all in for a low price beginning in the $189,000s. What makes a Perpetual Homes ADU stand out is that it offers high-end amenities included

in one low price.

foundation, utility connections, construction, site cleanup, final inspections and if wanted, property management. It’s hassle-free and worry-free.

There are many reasons to add an ADU. Some buyers want to bring in extra rental income, others love having a private retreat where aging parents or loved ones can live. Renting out your main house and living in an ADU in your backyard is becoming popular as well. In many cases, the main house rent covers both mortgages.

“Thousands of new ADUs are being built in communities across the U.S. because they are a manageable and minimally disruptive option for adding desperately needed housing to existing neighborhoods,” says Kathy Anderson, founder and managing partner of Perpetual Homes. Perpetual Homes’ ADUs cost approximately 50% less than the on-site “stick built” contractor version and provide a much cleaner job site.

New laws also make it easier to add an ADU in California than ever before, including no minimum lot size is required; side yard and rear yard setbacks of only 4 feet are allowed; no owner-occupant condition; and no city or municipality impact fees under 750 square feet for an ADU.

Find out more about ADUs, the building process and interior design at https://perpetualhomesadu.com/ or call (925) 980-2351. Perpetual Homes ADUs is located at 4115 Blackhawk Plaza Circle, No. 100, in Danville.

Read the full Beyond the Bay edition: https://www.ifoldsflip.com/i/1374928-05-21-21-beyond-the-bay/7

Add value in your backyard with an ADU

Tue, 25 May 2021 21:15:08 GMT

It is possible to build affordable and sustainable housing that enables families to live close, maintain privacy, and build wealth.

in one low price.

Perpetual Homes offers a wide variety of floor plans ranging from one to three bedrooms (430 square feet to 1,200 square feet). The company has over 35 years of Bay Area homebuilding experience. They manage the entire process from start to finish: from initial site inspection, permitting, site preparation, foundation, utility connections, construction, site cleanup, final inspections and if wanted, property management. It’s hassle-free and worry-free.

New laws also make it easier to add an ADU in California than ever before, including no minimum lot size is required; side yard and rear yard setbacks of only 4 feet are allowed; no owner occupant condition; and no city or municipality impact fees under 750 square feet for an ADU.

How Life Will Improve Once Remote Work Becomes The Standard

Thu, 01 Apr 2021 13:59:52 GMT

A large number of major corporations in an array of different sectors, such as Goldman Sachs, Facebook, Ford Motors and Microsoft, have announced plans for dealing with the post-pandemic work life. The consensus of these and other companies all points to a flexible hybrid model championed by Google. This entails offering the option for people to work remotely, in the office or a combination of the two. Outliers, like Spotify and Twitter, are allowing their employees to work remotely or wherever they’d like—forever.

If collectively only 20% to 40% of workers elect to completely or partially work from home, there may be life-changing consequences.

Better Mental, Physical and Emotional Health

The biggest change would be the vast improvement of the mental, emotional and physical health and well-being of workers. Schlepping two hours back and forth to the office takes a toll. You lose hundreds of hours of your life each year. The wear and tear of being stuck in traffic, trapped on trains and buses, inhaling auto emission fumes and stressing out over being late weakens your immune system and makes you irritated, tired and sick.

Without the commute and sitting in the same seat for more than eight hours, people will enjoy a higher quality of life. You would have more time to spend with family and friends. Since your boss won’t be breathing down your neck, you could actually be relaxed around your spouse, partner and children. For the first time in a long time, you’ll be able to really listen to what your loved ones have to say without incessant interruption from co-workers. Helping out the kids with homework won’t be such a chore, as you’re not doing it at 10 p.m. after a long day of work at the office.

Now that Zoom and other telecommunication software and technologies are ubiquitous and acceptable for business, there’s not the same pressure to take red-eye emergency flights to clients. Going out for dinner and drinks after a long day at the office also won't be as necessary, as it was pre-pandemic.

The extra time gained back could be devoted to helping out your community. We’ll notice more people taking up new hobbies and going back to sports they used to play, but had to stop, as they no longer had the time. As a nation, we’ll start decompressing. Instead of grabbing a burger and some junk food for lunch at the local corner bodega, you’ll be able to make a nice, healthy meal with fresh ingredients. There will be time to jog, ride a bike, do yoga and go on a long walk to take in some fresh air.

MORE FOR YOU

Summer’s Very Best Drive-In Events: Concerts, Movies, Comedy And So Much More

Why Tokyo’s New Transparent Public Restrooms Are A Stroke Of Genius

Road Trip Alert: Travel To Or Through These States Can Mean You Need To Self-Quarantine

Moving Out From The Cities

We’ve already seen people leave large crowded cities, like New York and San Francisco. As remote work becomes a long-term reality, more folks will elect to jettison their expensive, small apartments and take flight for tree-lined suburbs and picturesque rural locations.

An added attraction is that outside of major metropolitan areas, the taxes are significantly lower and so is the overall cost of living. These areas, especially places with sunshine and year-round warm weather, will grow rapidly. Meanwhile, city real estate prices will drop precipitously. It may take a united effort by leading corporations and politicians to stop the tide of people leaving and the need to lure them back.

Those who’ve been working out of their homes for over a year may become more adventurous. Some of these people may decide that they seek a fun adventure. They’ll become digital nomads and travel across America or temporarily move to foreign countries for a new and exciting experience. There is, unfortunately, the downside that companies can now recruit people from all over the U.S. and abroad.

Pursuing Meaning and Purpose

The pandemic served as an accelerant to pre-existing trends. The Baby Boomers were all about their jobs and careers. It's different for Millennials and the Gen-Zers that are entering the job market.

With the acceptance of remote work, it opens other possibilities. Young people will seek out companies that offer jobs that are meaningful and serve a larger purpose. They won't accept jobs based solely on the money. They want their company to espouse similar social and political values that they hold.

The virus outbreak and accompanying Covid-19 cases and deaths have made people of all ages prioritize their lives. They understand all too well how life is fragile and fleeting. It will be an era of people reinventing themselves, changing jobs and careers and pivoting to new industries. Some will go back to school, learn new skills and make a new brand start.

There will be a renewed optimism. Instead of the relentless doom and gloom, we’ll be overjoyed that the vast amount of citizens are vaccinated and it's now possible to go to the movies, restaurants, concerts and other events. Furloughed workers will be brought back and new jobs will be created. It will be like the Roaring ‘20s after the Spanish Flu and World War I—a time of rebirth, merriment and unlimited possibilities.

Original Article: https://www.forbes.com/sites/jackkelly/2021/03/31/heres-how-life-will-dramatically-improve-once-remote-work-becomes-the-new-standard/?sh=73a31d314035

Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUS)

Wed, 13 Jan 2021 14:07:34 GMT

In a world where housing prices keep lower-income wage earners from home ownership, Perpetual Homes ADU of Danville off ers an exciting new way to help people into their own homes. Th e solution, Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU’s). ADU’s are sustainable, turn-key, backyard, energy-effi cient homes that are also known as granny fl ats, in-law units, secondary dwelling units, and tiny houses. ADU’s are custom-designed cottages loaded with fullsize kitchen appliances, shaker cabinets, quartz or granite counter-tops, high vaulted ceilings, and lots of natural light. With all of that included, the “all-in” low price begins at $165,000. While there are many suppliers for ADU’s, you have to be cautious of their starting price which lacks many of the high-end amenities that Perpetual Homes includes in one low price.

Many homeowners add an ADU to bring in extra rental income, others love having a private retreat where aging parents or loved-ones can live. Renting out your main house and living in an ADU in your backyard is becoming popular as well. In many cases, the main house rent covers both mortgages.

“Thousands of new ADUs are being built in communities across the U.S because they are a manageable and minimally disruptive option for adding desperately needed housing to existing neighborhoods,” says Kathy Anderson, founder and managing partner of Perpetual Homes.

Perpetual Homes ADU’s cost approximately 50% less than on-site “stick built” contractor built units, plus installation leaves a much cleaner job site. New California laws have made it easier than ever to add an ADU:

No minimum lot size is required
Side yard & rear yard setbacks of only 4 feet are allowed
No owner-occupant condition
No city or municipality impact fees under 750 sq ft . for an ADU

Perpetual Homes which started in 2019 off ers a wide variety of fl oor plans ranging from 1-3 bedrooms (430-1,200 sq. ft .) We have over 35 years of Bay Area home building experience. We manage the entire process from start to finish: from initial site inspection, permitting, site preparation, foundation, utility connections, construction, site clean-up, fi nal inspections and if wanted, property management. It’s hassle and worry free! To fi nd out more about adding an ADU, please contact Kathy Anderson (owner DL1557865) at 925-980-235, via email at perpetualhomesadu@gmail.com or visit www.perpetualhomesadu.com.

Why 800 Square Feet Is the Perfect Size for Downsizers

Fri, 25 Sep 2020 20:14:02 GMT

The tiny house movement has taken over, and we aren't opposed. Moving into a smaller home isn't as big of a sacrifice as you might think. Sure, you're scaling back on physical square footage, but you'll be saving big in other areas. Eight hundred square feet may sound claustrophobic (especially if more than one full-time resident is planning on living there), but it's actually the ideal amount of space for homeowners who are looking to downsize.

Downsizing to a smaller house is a practical, cost-efficient option, especially for retirees. Cutting back on square footage also means cutting back on the maintenance that goes into caring for a larger home, which can be both physically and financially taxing. Less upkeep means more time and funds for things like travel. Returning to a smaller home base between trips to visit family is a lot less overwhelming to manage. An 800-square-foot house is bigger than it sounds. A home this size can pack in two bedrooms, one bath, a kitchen, and a living space. So there's still enough room to host supper club or overnight guests.

Maximizing every inch of a cozy cottage will save it from feeling like a shoebox. Decluttering is key—prioritize the things you can't live without and then get rid of the rest. Smart storage solutions will also save big on space, like sliding stackable laundry machines into a closet. Or keep cookbooks on open shelving so your collection can double as décor. Extending living areas outdoors can also help your home feel bigger, like centering an alfresco living room around a backyard patio.

Tiny houses aren't for everyone. Prioritize the needs for your stage of life. A family with three kids? Hold off. Empty nesters? Call your real estate agent.

Original Article: https://www.southernliving.com/home/800-square-feet-downsize-home

Benefits of Installing an ADU In Your Backyard!

Fri, 14 Aug 2020 09:43:21 GMT

Pictured: Perpetual Homes - The Communal Elevation

It’s no news that there is a housing crisis in California. A 2016 study identified that California will need 3.5 million more homes by the middle of the next decade. Most Californians simply cannot afford a decent house at current price ranges. Many Californians have had to move farther and farther out of town to find cheaper places to live, struggling with horrendous commutes, and more time away from family. Others grapple with parents or adult children who simply cannot afford to live nearby.

In order to solve this housing shortage, California has turned to Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs). An ADU is simply a second small dwelling on the same grounds as your single-family home. The ADU can serve as a small house, backyard retreat, or even a home office. ADUs are oftentimes called granny flats, in-law units, tiny houses, or secondary dwelling units. In addition, many multi-family attached properties can add two detached ADU’s per property. ADU’s are appealing because they cost less than other forms of housing and make use of existing land.

WHO WOULD BE A GOOD CANDIDATE FOR ADDING AN ADU?

Pictured: Perpetual Homes Office Shacks

• Homeowners who need additional monthly income
• Adults with aging parents who require financial support or in home care • Families with recent college graduates that have returned home
• Those in need of a home office
• Adults that need a quiet space to getaway (ie. a “man- cave” or studio)

Homeowners can look at ADUs as an investment in the future simply because they can be considered rental units to provide an extra income. In addition, they can offer more space for family members. Some people even decide to downsize and live in the ADU while renting out their primary dwelling. For instance, ADU’s in Alamo, California command approximately $3,600 per month; a 15% return on investment!

As our nation ages, many Americans are turning their attention to caring for their parents. The cost of paying for full-time health care can be exorbitant. Allowing aging parents to live in an ADU on your property can be a life saver!

Millennials are returning home in record numbers. It’s estimated that 85% of college graduates now circle back to the bedrooms they lived in during high school. An ADU can provide your kids with their own place to live, while preserving your empty nest and your sanity.

These days, more companies are allowing their employees to work from home, which can be challenging. An air conditioned office shack can provide a perfect quiet retreat for someone that works from home. Prices start at $26,900.

With the housing shortage, and rapidly increasing rents/mort- gages, it is becoming increasingly difficult to afford living in the Bay Area. An ADU can be the perfect solution for bringing in additional revenue or for housing multi-generational families.

Written by Benjamin Donel:

The highly regarded ADU builder, Perpetual Homes, specializes in providing affordable, sustainable, turn-key backyard ADU’s in the Bay Area. Perpetual Home ADU’s are placed on a permanent foundation so they are earthquake resistant. Assembled off-site to ensure the highest standards of quality, with minimal disruption to the homeowner, Perpetual Homes offers a huge array of floor plans/exterior design options, and dwelling sizes (that can range in size from the 160 sq ft office shack all the way up to two bedroom / 2 bath 700 square ft dwelling). To find out more about adding an ADU, visit www.perpetualhomesadu.com , email perpetualhomesadu@gmail.com, or call 925-980-2351.

Accessory Dwelling Units: What Are They? Why Are They Popular?

Fri, 14 Aug 2020 09:21:21 GMT

An accessory dwelling unit (ADU) is simply a second small dwelling located on the same grounds as your regular single-family home. An ADU can be in the form of a small house, backyard retreat, or even a home office. ADU’s are oftentimes called granny flats, in-law units, tiny houses, or secondary dwelling units. In addition, many multi-family attached properties can add two detached ADU’s per property. ADU’s are appealing because they cost less than other forms of housing and make use of existing land.

IN CALIFORNIA ADU’S ARE BECOMING EXTREMELY APPEALING FOR A NUMBER OF REASONS

Pictured: Perpetual Homes ADU - The Piedmont Elevation

People build ADU’s for many reasons but the most common one is to provide housing for multi-generation family members or for gaining rental income. In fact, Alamo ADU’s command approximately $3,600 per month. That is a 15% return on investment!

The cost of housing has increased so much that young families and aging parents are finding it difficult to be able to afford to live in this area. For aging parents ADU’s allow for people to age in place or form multi-generational households to ease caregiving responsibilities and cost.

ADU’s can be used as an incredible source of rental income. Some people rent out the ADU or even decide to downsize and live in the ADU while renting out their primary dwelling.

More companies are allowing their employees to work from home and that can be extremely difficult with small children or pets present. An air conditioned office shack (prices start at $26,500) can provide that perfect quiet retreat for someone that works from home.

NEW CALIFORNIA LAWS HAVE MADE ADDING AN ADU MORE ATTRACTIVE THAN EVER. SOME OF THESE NEW LAWS INCLUDE:

• No minimum lot size required.

• A setback of only four feet which opens up a vast number of properties to ADU development in their backyards.

• Homeowners can no longer prohibit ADU’s.

The presence of an ADU can enhance the attractiveness of a house on the market, typically increasing the value of the property. The ADU units can be fully equipped with a bathroom, kitchen, heating and air conditioning, as well as washer and dryer making them fully functioning living spaces. Quite simply an ADU can be the perfect solution for housing extended family, for gaining monthly rental income or for allowing people to simplify their lives and still live in a neighborhood setting.

Written by Benjamin Donel:

The highly regarded ADU builder, Perpetual Homes, specializes in providing affordable,sustainable, turn-key backyard ADU’s in the Bay Area. Perpetual Home ADU’s are placed on a permanent foundation so they are earthquake resistant. Assembled off -site to ensure the highest standards of quality, with minimal disruption to the homeowner, Perpetual Homes offers a huge array of floorplans/exterior design options, and dwelling sizes (that can range in size from the 120 sq ft office shack all the way up to two bedroom, two bath, 700 sq ft dwelling). To find out more about adding an ADU, please email perpetualhomesadu@gmail.com or call 925-980-2351 .

California's New Accessory Dwelling Units Laws: What You Should Know

Fri, 14 Aug 2020 09:09:48 GMT

Pictured: Perpetual Homes Interior

Accessory dwelling units, or ADUs for short, are separate dwelling areas that are on the same land as a detached house. Typically, homeowners will construct these homes to provide income opportunities. Other times, people build ADUs for family reasons — often to care for loved ones while still having a sense of independence for both parties.

Regardless of the reason, California regulators see these accessory dwelling units as a possible answer to the housing crisis in the state. They provide a potential income opportunity for current homeowners while providing an affordable place to live for people in the Golden State.

As such, in 2019, Governor Gavin Newsom signed five bills into law regarding ADUs. These bills make ADUs more accessible for renters across the state. Whether you’re looking to build an ADU or you’re looking to rent one, you’re going to want to know about the changes that went into effect Jan. 1.

The Biggest Impact Bills: AB-881 And AB-68

AB-881, “ Accessory dwelling units ,” and AB-68, “ Land use: accessory dwelling units ,” will arguably have the most significant impact on the state’s housing market. These two bills will make California ADUs much simpler to build because it makes many of the current restrictions that cities place on ADUs obsolete. It also provides for a streamlined process for approvals.

These bills require permits for ADUs added to single-family and multi-family homes to be approved or denied faster. Current law permits these decisions to take 120 days, but this new law requires decisions within 60 days. These approvals or denials must be issued ministerially, so that way, there are fewer potential issues to encounter. Cities and counties may establish minimum and maximum ADU size requirements, but the maximum size cannot be less than 850 square feet for a one-bedroom ADU or 1,000 square feet for more than one bedroom.

Most importantly, these bills prohibit any lot coverage, minimum lot size, etc. requirements that municipalities have. Cities have enacted these laws to have the effect of making it impossible to build an ADU. Cities cannot require the correction of nonconforming zoning conditions as part of the approval process.

To summarize, municipalities won’t have the ability to block the construction of ADU places like they used to. These bills will make it significantly easier to build an ADU, no matter how your lot and home are situated.

SB-13: Reducing Fees And Removing Even More Restrictions

SB-13, “ Accessory dwelling units ,” is similar to AB-881 and AB-68 with a couple of significant differences. Before this bill, local agencies could require that the person applying for the ADU occupy either the primary residence or the proposed new structure. This bill exempts from these requirements all proposed ADUs until Jan. 1, 2025. Additionally, this bill removes the impact fee for ADUs smaller than 750 square feet. Even for ADUs larger than that, the impact fees assessed must correlate with the square footage of the primary residence.

SB-13 makes building ADUs cheaper and also removes an essential regulation. Now, landlords who rent their properties out can apply for an ADU for their rental properties.

AB-670: Tackling Homeowners Associations, Or HOAs

AB-670, “ Common interest developments: accessory dwelling units ,” makes it easier for people within HOA complexes to construct ADUs. Specifically, it prevents banning or unreasonably restricting on single-family lots on the construction of these units. Presently, many HOAs have CCRs (“conditions, covenants and restrictions”) that prevent people from building ADUs. HOAs may worry about the uniformity of the properties if one has an ADU on it, or they might be concerned that they don’t know who is and who isn’t renting from an ADU. Regardless, HOAs now need to have a way for people to construct ADUs if they so choose.

HOAs will likely challenge this bill, at least to some degree, in court, but for now, if you live in an HOA complex with single-family homes, you can construct an ADU.

AB-671: Making These ADUs Available To Low-Income Households

AB-671, “ Accessory dwelling units: incentives ,” requires that general plans incentivize homeowners in some way to construct these ADUs and make them available for low-to-moderate-income households to rent. While it doesn’t specify what these incentives will be, it does require local agencies to think about financial incentives and construct a plan.

Accessory Dwelling Units: The Long-Term Plan

With the signing of these five bills, it’s pretty clear what Governor Newsom is trying to do. He’s encouraging homeowners in some of the most problematic areas of the state for housing (i.e., the Bay Area and Southern California) to build ADUs now that so much of the red tape no longer exists. The incentive plans the state will create will generate an interest in ADUs and prompt homeowners to rent them to the people who need them most — those in the lower or moderate-income brackets.

Whether this plan works remains to be seen. However, what is clear is that if you wanted to build one of these ADUs — no matter what the reason is — now is the time to do it!

Written by Benjamin Donel:

The Bay Area needs 450K new homes by 2030 — can we get there?

Fri, 14 Aug 2020 08:24:20 GMT

Pictured: San Francisco

The Bay Area’s housing needs for the next several years have more than doubled — and we were already struggling to reach the current, lower goals we’ve set for ourselves.

For the period between 2023 and 2030, the state of California’s Regional Housing Needs Assessment has found that municipalities in the Bay Area will need to build 441,176 new housing units.

This is an increase of about 135 percent from the current goal for the period between 2015 and 2023: 187,990 housing units. The increase was not unexpected by local leaders, according to San Jose Spotlight, given the current housing situation and projections for population and job growth, but the question is whether all that housing will ever be built.

Housing goals set by the RHNA are treated more like aspirations than requirements, according to Leslye Corsiglia, executive director at SV@Home.

“Never has the number been seen by communities as something they had to meet,” Corsiglia told Spotlight. “They’ve just felt that it’s a planning number, which is unfortunate because what that means is that they plan for that number because they’re expected to — they’re required by law to — but with no intention ever of reaching it.

”There are also requirements for what type of housing is built, broken down by how affordable they are — they range from “very low income” to “above moderate income.”

Data from SV@Home show that Santa Clara County as a whole has already exceeded its target for “above moderate income” homes for 2015-2023, building 22,611 out of 21,890, or 103%.

The outlook for the other housing brackets is not so cheery: 23% of the moderate income housing goal has been reached (2,458 out of 10,576), followed by 13% of low income (1,224 out of 9,372) and 10% of very low income (1,533 out of 15,633).

To compare, here’s the breakdown for the 2023-2030 housing goals, with significant increases in all categories:

114,442 very low income units;
65,892 low income;
72,712 moderate income;
188,130 above moderate income.

All that said, previous reporting has found that it is difficult for developers to make low-income housing pencil out and thus find the money to build, despite government mandates.

“A really big issue is that such a big proportion of the (affordable housing) needs identified require subsidy, and we just don’t have enough,” Corsiglia said, per Spotlight. “That’s a reason why the numbers won’t be met until we identify that (financing) source.

”Spotlight reports that the Association of Bay Area Governments is currently working on a way to allocate those housing goals per city, trying to find a method that would be both effective at addressing a complex issue and still simple enough to be understood by residents and lawmakers. ABAG’s recommendation is set to be made by September, with final allocations expected by 2021.

Written by Ryan Fernandez:

How a remote work boom and city exodus might reshape rural America

Fri, 14 Aug 2020 08:12:40 GMT

Pictured: Zoom Conference Call

The Great Work-From-Home Experiment carries on as the country continues to be shelled by Covd-19. Fortunately, most people involved — companies and employees alike — think that it’s working pretty well , except those trying to work and take care of kids simultaneously .

According to a recent survey by Deutsche Bank that has tracked sentiment, we may be at “peak WFH”: 65% of respondents said they expect to work from home at 1-3 days per week when their offices reopen, compared to 65%, 57%, and 39% in the past three months.

At the same time, there have been heaps of anecdotes about people who can afford to leave high-cost cities like New York , accelerating planned moves to the suburbs and taking advantage of a remote work policy to live in cheaper areas.

The scale of the urban exodus is unclear at the moment. Anecdotally, many people think people are leaving the city in droves. However, Zillow’s chief economist says people aren’t leaving in droves (at least not yet).

However, rents in cities are dropping — 6.6% in New York, according to Douglas Elliman — which suggests this is happening enough to move the market.

But just as interesting: How this will affect the small towns and cities these workers flock to?

American cities have attracted young people with jobs and urban amenities, and smaller, more rural regions have struggled with brain drain and keeping their young people. Some states, like Vermont, have experimented with incentives, such as famously paying some people $10,000 to move and work remotely there.

For states and towns that have long wanted revitalization, the coronavirus pandemic could have an interesting knock-on effect, with the potential to bring people back who left for more job opportunities.

Decentralized jobs could revitalize small towns

The country’s biggest companies are often clustered together in economic hubs — big cities. For years, it made sense as that’s where the biggest labor pools were and companies would position themselves to take advantage of them.

But with the pandemic pushing people into isolation, the need to be physically proximate has evaporated since technology provides the virtual connections to keep productivity going.

Some companies are talking about more permanent remote-work options for employees — flexibility for workers and lower costs for employers — so it may be a trend that sticks, at least for some businesses.

Already, some people have left cities, choosing to live where they want to, not where their jobs are located.

“I think it’s really a potentially positive development for rural areas or less densely populated areas,” said Isabel Sawhill, a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution who studies the middle class and social mobility. “This is a big country and we have lots of inexpensive real estate, it’s just that there aren’t jobs in those places — and this would be a way to bring a lot of jobs to people who need them in rural areas and small towns.”

Jobs can be brought in two ways: people coming and people already living somewhere deciding to apply. If working remotely is viable for a company, their labor pool theoretically expands to the entire country.

Sawhill and Mercer’s HR experts Mary Ann Sardone and Matt Stevenson, said that often small hubs can pop up when people are given the green light to work remotely, as workers choose “nice” places to live unrelated to their workplace. Sawhill pointed out that these scenarios often raise the entire town’s economic profile by providing employment for essential infrastructure like grocery stores and barber shops.

Sometimes, Stevenson said, a place that begins as a low-cost “small town” ends up losing its bargain status over a period — like Fargo, N.D., after Microsoft employees began to cluster there in 1999 when it opened a small campus.

Critical mass makes all the difference

If enough young, upwardly mobile workers move, things change, says Charles Whelan, an economics professor at Dartmouth College in Hanover, N.H., a small town of 11,500.

But if you don’t have enough young people, it’s going to be tough to sell a smaller town.

“There’s still a lot of appeal to the city, high prices notwithstanding,” said Whelan. “You don’t have to have a car.”

If you’re under age 30 and single, things may be tough. Stevenson said being young and living in a small town means you’re “kind of exiled,” and Whelan said he wouldn’t “wish it on anybody.”

For a young family, Whelan said, it’s much different — especially families with two earners that may face hard choices about where to live because of their jobs. If one can work remotely, it’s no problem if the other’s job is in a fairly rural place.

Another issue is what happens to employees who leave the office with the company’s blessing. Will those workers who decide to go to rural areas and set up co-working spaces be seen as clock-punchers while their coworkers who remain at HQ get the promotions?

"You run the risk of creating two parallel work forces," said Stevenson. "You don't want the best people going out to the countryside missing out on the career track."

Micropolitan areas and college towns

One potential area of growth is in village-like smaller towns and cities that offer some amenities similar to urban places, but with more room and fewer people. With an economic center like a hospital or a university, these are often well set up to attract people fleeing urban environments.

“I think it creates an economic hub,” said Sawhill. “It also brings in a group of people who are better educated and likely to make investments in time and money in that community.”

Sawhill and Whelan pointed out that there is substantial research behind this phenomenon. Once you have a hub like a hospital, Whelan said, everyone else comes. “You have architects, wealth management people, lawyers — that’s why college towns work,” he said.

In the short term, however, things look tough for college towns dealing with the possibility that life will not be the same this fall under the pandemic. As Yahoo Finance has reported , closures take an enormous toll on college towns that would need a significant city exodus to replace.

Internet is key to the future

Every expert who spoke to Yahoo Finance for this story mentioned internet connectivity as a must for all of this to work out. While things are improving, there is still plenty of work to be done to connect smaller, more rural places that fall through the cracks when the phone and cable providers prioritize. According to the FCC , 80% of the 24 million Americans without good internet live in rural areas.

Matt Dunne, a politician, businessman, and director of the Center for Rural Innovation in Vermont, pressed the internet issue and the fact that scrappy collectives of towns had managed to put together fast connections on their own.

Dunne has been trying to figure out how to revitalize the country’s more rural parts and told Yahoo Finance that the opportunity gap continues to widen between cities and towns – since 2008 traditional rural jobs have been automated, globalization continued to take off, and entrepreneurship declined in rural areas.

In his view, Covid-19 has the potential to be a boon for rural communities.

“I think it’s accelerating things in an unbelievable way where tech companies aren’t requiring people to actually be in a city and all go to the same office,” he said.

The hope, Dunne said, is that there aren’t just three hubs where everyone wants to go to, but rather that workers see the whole country as a potential place to be where jobs can be had — and training can be possible for people to enter the workforce without a detour in New York or San Francisco. Inclusivity is key.

Unfortunately, like college towns that are being crushed by closures and reduced economic activity, small towns that rely on tourism are being hit as well by Covid shutdowns and a more cautious public.

“The other analysis we did recently was to show rural places are much more vulnerable to job loss in the Covid response – that’s because of the nature of the kinds of jobs,” said Dunne. “Places with heavy dependence on tourism are just getting shellacked.”

However, the next few years shake out with the Covid crisis and the Great Work-From-Home Experiment either working or not working for businesses, a lot is up in the air. As Dunne pointed out, the housing market in the northeast has exploded as people look for a place to buy to escape the city — a move that could put pressure on those who live there already. It seems as if trends are accelerating, but as of yet, it’s hard to say which direction they’re going.

Written by Ethan Wolff-Mann

perpetualhomes

Pool vs. ADU: What Makes Sense for Your Backyard Investment?

California ADU Laws 2026: New Senate Bill Updates

2026 California Senate Bill Updates

How to Rebuild After a Wildfire in California: Prefab Homes and ADU Options

Who's Who in ADUs: Katherine Noe Anderson

Prefab vs. Site-Built ADUs in California: What to Know

Will Building an ADU Raise My Property Taxes in California?

A Homeowner’s Guide to ADU Costs, Financing, and Energy Savings

Perpetual Homes Has Answers for the Housing Crisis

Does an ADU Increase Property Value in California? Real Life Scenarios

Equity, Flexibility, and Long-Term Stability

Is Your California Backyard Ready for an ADU? Zoning, Lot Size, and Access Explained

Start with Zoning: State Law Sets the Baseline

Lot Size: Smaller Lots Can Still Work

Access, Utilities, and Fire Requirements

Using the Perpetual Homes 10-Step Process

Why Early Property Review Matters

Is Your Lot Ready?

How ADUs and Multi-Family Lots Can Support Families Today

Multigenerational Living in California

A Practical Guide to Building an ADU in California

A Fresh Start for California Homeowners

New 2026 California ADU Laws

Stay Up to Date on California's 2026 ADU Laws

New 2026 California ADU Laws

A simple, scalable solution to California’s housing crisis, one backyard at a time

Perpetual Homes Offers Solution to Housing Crisis

Casita Coalition In Our Backyard

Bay Area builders, homeowners accuse PG&E of holding up ADUs

PG&E is delaying ADU construction in California, builders and homeowners say

Perpetual Homes leading the way Californians turn to ADUs amid housing crisis J6

How California’s new ADU law transforms multifamily real estate

Perpetual Homes is leading the way as Californians turn to ADUs amid housing crisis

Why Bay Area multifamily owners have embraced ADUs

Owners are taking advantage of statewide changes to turn underutilized spaces into revenue-generating apartments ﻿

As Bay Area housing options shrink, ADUs’ popularity grows

Want to easily enhance your property value?

Building ADUs with high value

Experience affordable multigenerational living at its finest.

Perpetual Homes Builds the Future of Housing

AB1033 – HOW TO IMPLEMENT NEW STATE ADU CONDOMINIUM LAW

Here’s how AB 1033 works

A new law allows homeowners to sell ADUs like condos, boosting homeownership. Here’s how AB 1033 works:

﻿

Here’s how the new rules will work in participating cities:

7 Portable Building Homes for Sale Right this Very Second

What Are Shipping Container Homes?

7 Portable Cabin Homes for Sale:

The Lido

The Sonoma

The Huntington

The Kensington

Giving Your Backyard What It Deserves: Prefab Tiny Homes

6 Tiny Homes for Your Backyard

The Piedmont

Pros

The Monterey

Pros

The Belmont

Pros

Everything You Need to Know About Modular in Law Suites

The Three Pros

Efficiency in Construction

Design Flexibility

Better Quality and Sustainability

1 Con

Find the Right Spot for Your In-Law Suite

Conclusion

Explore the Inexpensiveness of Modular Homes

Benefits of Prefab

Less Waste

Durability

Shorter Construction Time

The Danville

The Huntington

Bottomline

Where to Buy Prefab Tiny Houses Right Now

The Belmont

The Piedmont

A Homeowner’s Guide to
ADU Costs, Financing, and Energy Savings

Owners are taking advantage of statewide changes to turn underutilized spaces into revenue-generating apartments