An accessory dwelling unit (ADU) is a self-contained living space built on the same grounds as an existing single-family home. Also known as granny flats, in-law suites, or backyard cottages, ADUs are an increasingly popular option for adding livable space to properties in high-cost urban areas like Culver City.

As a full-service design/build firm based in Southern California, Surfside Builders Group specializes in ADUs to help homeowners unlock the full potential of their land. We handle every aspect of your ADU project, from initial concept and design through to completed construction and final inspections.

Benefits of Adding an ADU

ADUs offer many advantages both for homeowners and the surrounding community:

Extra Income – The most obvious benefit is the ability to generate rental income from your backyard cottage. Especially with Culver City real estate at a premium, an ADU can provide homeowners with an appealing stream of rental income.

Housing Flexibility – An ADU creates flexible living options to suit different needs over time. Examples include housing for relatives, friends, caretakers, college students, or anyone who would benefit from an affordable housing alternative.

Mortgage Helper – Rental income from an ADU can provide homeowners extra funds to put toward paying off their main home mortgage sooner. This financial boost is especially valuable given the high cost of housing in the Los Angeles metro.

Neighborhood Revitalization – By adding housing density with ADUs, communities can slow gentrification and provide more affordable options for individuals and families who may otherwise be priced out of desirable areas like Culver City. More residents also help support local businesses.

Environmental Benefits – Increasing urban density reduces urban sprawl and promotes walkable communities less dependent on cars for mobility. ADUs make efficient use of existing infrastructure like roads, sewers, and power grids.

Increase Property Value – The cost to build an ADU generally pays off in the long run by increasing total property value. As an income-generating asset and flexible living space, backyard cottages add measurable value.

Ideal Locations for ADUs

Culver City offers an ideal setting for homeowners seeking to add an ADU. Located on the Westside of Los Angeles County, Culver City combines small-town charm with urban convenience. The community provides easy access to Silicon Beach tech companies, Sony Studios, great restaurants, art galleries, and other attractions.

The Culver City real estate market has seen sustained growth in recent decades, which increases financial motivation for homeowners to add a rental unit or backyard cottage to start generating income. Whether built new or converted from an existing structure like a garage, ADUs make smart use of premium land in this high-demand area.

Homeowners in neighborhoods zoned for single-family residences can benefit from adding an ADU on site. Ideal candidates have lots at least 5,000 square feet in size, with sufficient outdoor space for a detached backyard building. Corner lots, larger lots, and properties with an existing garage or other accessory building also provide opportunities for ADU development.

ADU Design and Construction

The ADU experts at Surfside Builders Group guide clients through every phase of the backyard unit process:

Initial Consultation – We meet with homeowners to assess their property and lifestyle needs, while explaining ADU design options, budget, regulations, and development timelines specific to Culver City.

Concept & Design – Our in-house design team creates initial ADU design concepts and floor plans tailored to both the client’s preferences and the site characteristics.

City Approvals – We handle all permitting paperwork and plan submissions required by the City of Culver City to gain approvals before construction can begin. Recent state law changes aim to streamline the ADU permitting process.

Construction & Management – As a full-service firm, Surfside Builders oversees the ADU project from start to finish – including all architecture, engineering, and contracting required to bring the unit to life. We also coordinate with utilities for needed connections.

Final Touches – Once construction is complete, we assist with interior finishes like kitchen appliances, flooring, bathroom fixtures to prepare the ADU for occupants. The culmination of months of work!

ADUs: An Investment in Your Future

Surfside Builders Group eliminates hassles so Culver City homeowners can realize their property’s full potential through the addition of an ADU. These accessory units provide benefits spanning enhanced livability, rental income, flexible space, and increased property value.

Urban single-family neighborhoods need creative housing solutions. Surfside helps open up livability and density through thoughtfully designed and professionally built ADUs. Unlock your property’s possibilities and invest for the future with a custom accessory dwelling unit.

We offer free consultations and customized design. Contact Surfside Builders Group today to explore options for an ADU on your Culver City property!