ADUADVISE
Free ADU planning tool

Is your backyard worth more
than you think?

Enter your ZIP code to see your local ADU market data. We use the current HUD ZIP rental benchmark where it is available, plus planning inputs for costs, permits, and funding.

Already have an ADU? Calculate rentAre you a contractor?
300+
completed ADUs represented
300+
public reviews represented
5
states in the network

Network experience reported by active contractor profiles

Modern backyard ADU with warm evening lighting
Contractor-ready project brief
Illustrative planning example · Los Angeles, CA
$2,400
monthly rent
8.4%
annual ROI
500 sq ft detached ADU · paid off in 7.2 years · contractor-ready scope
Current HUD ZIP rent benchmarks where availableFree local ADU planning snapshotCompare cost, rent, timing, and financingContractors review projects before acceptingBuild a clearer project brief before bidsCurrent HUD ZIP rent benchmarks where availableFree local ADU planning snapshotCompare cost, rent, timing, and financingContractors review projects before acceptingBuild a clearer project brief before bids
See the whole planning path

From one ZIP code to a project contractors can understand.

Watch how ADU Advise turns early curiosity into a clearer, more complete project.

01 · Local snapshot

Start with the property, not a generic estimate.

Enter a ZIP code to begin with local rent data, cost assumptions, rules, and planning risks worth checking.

94087Sunnyvale, California
Current HUD benchmark$2,8702-bedroom monthly rent
Local data connected
Build my project
Monthly permit pulse

ADU Heat Zone

See where ADU permits are moving fastest in the latest month reported by California cities.

December 2025Latest reported month

Permit activity can signal local momentum, but it does not guarantee approval for a particular property. Your address, zoning, lot conditions, utilities, and local review still matter.

View the official HCD source ↗

California cities ranked by reported ADU units receiving building permits during the latest month available in HCD Table A2 data. County jurisdictions are excluded. HCD APR figures are reported by local jurisdictions and may be revised.

Approved contractor network

Real project experience behind your next step.

ADU Advise helps homeowners plan clearly, then connect with approved contractors whose profiles represent completed projects and public customer feedback.

Explore the network →
300+
Completed ADUs represented
300+
Public reviews represented
5
States represented
SnapADU ADU project
100+ completed ADUs
SnapADUGreater San DiegoDetached ADU design-build experience from feasibility through construction.
Urbatect Development ADU project
Design, permit, and build
Urbatect DevelopmentCalifornia and WashingtonIntegrated planning, permitting, construction, and 3D visualization services.
Real Time Construction ADU project
80 completed ADUs reported
Real Time ConstructionSan Francisco Bay AreaDesign-build experience across ADUs, additions, permitting, and remodeling.

Active contractor profiles as reviewed August 20, 2026. Completed-project counts are contractor supplied. Review totals come from linked public review sources where listed. Contractor availability and fit vary by project and location.

Build a better starting point

Free planning tools for the questions that shape an ADU project.

Already have an ADU and want to calculate rent?Estimate long-term rent from the unit's ZIP code, size, bedrooms, bathrooms, and condition. No project setup required.Explore →Funding pathsReview financing options and funding programs worth checking.Explore →Project readinessTurn your inputs into an organized brief before requesting bids.Explore →Find contractorsSee how the contractor network works and apply if you are a builder.Explore →
Planning scenarios

Start with the project path that fits your property.

These are planning examples, not customer case studies or promised outcomes. Local rules, site conditions, construction costs, and rental demand can change the result.

Rental strategyUse a local rent benchmark and cost range to test whether a detached ADU supports your goals.
Family suiteCompare a non-rental ADU with the flexibility, financing, and future value it may provide.
Garage conversionIdentify questions about access, utilities, permits, and scope before speaking with contractors.
Questions, answered

A clearer first step for an ADU.

Start your local snapshot in minutes. Contractor applications are reviewed within five business days.

Is ADU Advise free?

Yes. The homeowner planning tools are free to use.

Where does the rent information come from?

We show the current HUD ZIP rental benchmark where it is available and label the source and release date used in your snapshot.

Does this replace an architect, contractor, or city review?

No. It helps you organize early decisions. You should still verify local requirements and engage qualified professionals.

Can I use this before I know exactly what I want to build?

Yes. The tool is designed to help you compare common paths, costs, timing, and questions to resolve next.

How does the contractor network work?

Homeowners can share a completed project with up to three contractors. Contractors review the brief and may decline projects that are not a fit.

© 2026 ADU Advise. Planning support, not construction or legal advice.PrivacyContractor terms