No-Cost ADU Matchmaking for Homeowners

Yes—you read that correctly! Homeowners pay no fee for our services. ADU Matchmaker offers a free, full-service matchmaking experience for homeowners across Southern California. Our team connects your unique project with our network of vetted architects and contractors to bring your dream ADU to life.

Here’s how our process works:

Stage 1: Architect Matching

• During this stage, we connect you with a select group of local, vetted architects who can design your ADU plans and help obtain permits. After interviewing over 150 architects in Southern California, only a handful excelled in price, quality, and professionalism—these are the architects we refer to our clients.

• Once matched with three architects, you’ll receive their bids within approximately one week. If you choose to hire one of them, there is no cost to you; the architect pays our team a small commission, equivalent to their Google/Facebook advertising budget to acquire new leads.

• Throughout the architect phase, ADU Matchmaker is by your side—offering education, guidance, and support to help ensure permits are obtained quickly and smoothly.

Stage 2: Contractor Matching

• Next, we connect you with the top local, vetted contractors. After interviewing 150+ builders in Southern California, we only refer those who demonstrate excellence in price, quality, and professionalism.

• After matching you with three contractors, you’ll receive bids within 1–1.5 weeks. If you hire one of the referred contractors, you pay nothing—the contractor pays our team a small commission, similar to their Google/Facebook advertising budget for acquiring new clients.

• ADU Matchmaker remains actively involved throughout the construction phase up until the home is built. We provide support with price negotiation, project guidance, and education to help ensure your ADU is completed efficiently, professionally, and within budget.

Our network of vetted, local architects and contractors proudly serves communities throughout Los Angeles, Orange County, and the surrounding regions.

We provide ADU support across:
• Santa Clarita
• San Fernando Valley
• San Gabriel Valley
• Westside cities (including Malibu and Santa Monica)
• Central Los Angeles
• South Bay (El Segundo, Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach, Redondo Beach, Rancho Palos Verdes, Rolling Hills)
• Long Beach
• All of Orange County

Not sure if your location is covered? Reach out—we’re happy to confirm!

Why Build an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) in Southern California?

Building an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) offers homeowners a wide range of financial, lifestyle, and long-term benefits. Here are just a few key advantages:

1. More Affordable to Build

Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU’s) are significantly more cost-effective than traditional construction because they don’t require new land acquisition, major infrastructure, or complex building systems. They generally follow simpler residential construction methods, which help to keep overall costs lower.

2. Increase Your Property Value

Homes with Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU’s) often see notable appreciation, with many properties experiencing a substantial boost in value once the unit is completed.

3. Generate Rental Income

An ADU can create a steady income stream. Depending on local regulations, homeowners may choose long-term leasing or explore mid-term and short-term rental opportunities.

4. Convenient Housing for Family or Guests

ADU’s are ideal for multigenerational living—offering privacy while keeping loved ones close. They’re also perfect for visiting family, guest stays, or even a designated home office.

5. Flexible Use Over Time

As your needs evolve, an ADU can evolve with you—use it as rental income now and transform it later into an office, studio, guest suite, or additional living space.

6. Support California’s Housing Needs

ADU’s add new housing options within existing neighborhoods, helping address California’s ongoing housing shortage without requiring large-scale development.

7. Environmentally Friendly

With a smaller footprint, ADU’s reduce land use and encourage sustainable building practices such as energy-efficient design, solar installation, and water-saving technologies.

8. Access Financial Incentives

California continues to offer a variety of financial programs designed to make ADU construction more attainable, including state, county, and local grants, loan programs, and pre-approved building plans. Availability varies by region and may change over time.

Not Sure if Your Property Can Support an ADU?

Zoning regulations can be complex, but our network of experienced architects and licensed contractors can guide you through every step of the process. We’ll help you evaluate your property, review local ordinances, and determine what type of ADU you can build based on your location.

Helpful Resources:
• Zoning Map
• LA City ADU Ordinance

How Much Does an ADU Cost to Build?

Cost is just one of many important considerations when planning an Accessory Dwelling Unit. Other factors—such as contractor experience, quality of workmanship, design preferences, and project timeline—also play a significant role in determining the total investment.

We also take into account how you plan to use the ADU. Will the space serve as housing for a family member, or will it function as an income-producing rental? Understanding your goals helps us match you with the most suitable contractors and obtain accurate bids for your project.

At ADU Matchmaker, we combine education, industry expertise, and a passion for real estate investing to help homeowners choose the best contractor for their budget, timeline, and scope of work. Our team is here to guide you through each step and ensure you receive clear, competitive proposals from trusted professionals.

ADU Rental Compliance

To ensure your ADU rental follows local regulations, it’s important to confirm the rules with your city planning office.

For example, in Los Angeles, current legislation prohibits short-term rentals (less than 30 days) for non-primary residences. However, homeowners may legally rent their ADU as a mid-term rental (30+ days) or a long-term rental (one tenant for a year or more).

For detailed information, visit your local city resources:

• Los Angeles City Planning – Home Sharing

• City of Orange – Short-Term Rentals

• City of Irvine – Short-Term Rentals

• City of Costa Mesa – Short-Term Rentals

• Garden Grove – Short-Term Vacation Rentals