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Real Estate News

October 2023

Speaking of ADUs

Just a few short years ago, the impact of the new ADU laws was the hot topic in real estate. Fast forward to today and we are starting to see how these laws are being implemented, sometimes in creative ways.

First, a quick primer. An ADU, or Accessory Dwelling Unit, is a secondary living space on your property. It can be either attached or detached, or even be a converted space such as a garage. California law, which supersedes local ordinances, allows for two such structures in most cases - an ADU and a JADU (Junior ADU).

The idea behind ADUs and JADUs is to increase the available housing in California. While there are regulations relating to the construction and occupancy of ADUs, if you are visualizing a cottage in the backyard or a 2-car garage converted into a 1 bed, 1 bath apartment, you are on the right track. And based on the figures presented in a recent presentation put on by Catch Architecture*, the income generated by renting out an ADU could roughly cover the cost of construction AND at the same time significantly increase your property value.

We recently showed a newly expanded home with a terrific primary suite complete with luxurious bathroom, walk-in closet, sitting room and coffee bar (mini-kitchen and laundry). What was intriguing though was that this suite was built to within a few feet of the back fence. Most homes have setbacks that prevent building within ~20' of the back property line, so how was this possible? This entire suite was considered an ADU! Unlike most homes, ADUs can be built to within 4' of the back and side property lines per California law. I suspect we will see more creative implementations as time goes on.

* Photo courtesy of Catch Architecture. Catch puts on compelling ADU presentations periodically. Let us know if you are interested and we will connect you to Catch. We are working with Catch on our own remodel/addition.

Timely Topics

Time to Prep for Winter

Winter is right around the corner meaning that it is time to "winterize" your home before the rains set in - and it is expected to be a wet one! Here is a quick list of important preparations (these apply year around, btw):

Clean out gutters, downspouts and landscaping drains
Trim trees and plants so they are away from your roof and siding
Check your outdoor lighting
Get your furnace serviced if it has been a while
Clean out the tracks and check weather stripping on windows and doors
Test your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors

* Photo credit Steve Henn last winter

Featured Listings and Sales

For Sale ~ San Carlos charm

1801 Greenwood Avenue, San Carlos

2 bed, 1 bath main house PLUS 1 bed, 1 bath ADU
$1,888,000

Sale Pending ~ Willow glen tree lined street

2487 Gunar Drive, San Jose

6 beds, 3.5 baths on an 11,714sf lot
$2,695,000

Compass Luxury

Looking for a luxury property or even a brief escape? Check out our online magazine, Compass Luxury, for some of the most exclusive listings in the United States.

Please feel free to pass this newsletter along to friends and family - and remember, we are never too busy for your referrals!

Janie and John Barman

DRE #01270223 & #01281597
Realtors®
M: 650.759.1182
jbarman@compass.com

Compass is a real estate broker licensed by the State of California operating under multiple entities. License Numbers 01991628, 1527235, 1527365, 1356742, 1443761, 1997075, 1935359, 1961027, 1842987, 1869607, 1866771, 1527205, 1079009, 1272467. All material is intended for informational purposes only and is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. No statement is made as to the accuracy of any description or measurements (including square footage). This is not intended to solicit property already listed. No financial or legal advice provided. Equal Housing Opportunity. Photos may be virtually staged or digitally enhanced and may not reflect actual property conditions.