Simplifying the creation of your Accessory Dwelling Unit
Founded in 1999, with over 1000 custom projects completed in the Sacramento area, Mills Builders has perfected the design + build process. We have built dozens of ADU’s and have streamlined our process and systems to make the client experience as seamless as possible.
1. Design & Collaboration
Share your ideas and budget, and watch your vision take shape. Collaborate with a trusted designer and contractor to maximize the value for your budget.
2. Planning
We work with leading local manufacturers and distributors, draw on an experienced team of builders, and utilize trusted local subcontractors.
3. Construction
Our experienced team of builders continuously communicate with you so you are comfortable, aware, and involved in the construction process.
What is an ADU?
An Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is a permanent dwelling unit that may share at least one wall with the primary residence (attached) or be a stand-alone structure (detached) from the primary residence. ADUs provide permanent facilities for living, sleeping, eating, cooking, and sanitation. Previously known as “granny flats”, ADUs can be well suited for aging in-place, adding retirement income, or extra space for you or your visiting guests.
Sacramento allows a total of two ADUs on one lot. There must be an existing (or proposed) primary residential structure on the property (i.e. a single family home, duplex, apartment, etc.).
There are multiple kinds of ADU’s, with the most common being a detached standalone residence. Also included are garage conversions, and a Junior ADU (JADU) which is attached to your home.
With high demand for ADU’s due to positive changes in permitting and zoning laws at the state level, we seek to fill a void in our local building market by specializing in and providing high quality and beautiful structures that will add value to your property for decades to come. We also believe in urban housing density, and see building ADU’s as our part in helping alleviate California’s housing crisis.
How to get started? And how long does this take (and cost)?
Mills Builders leads our clients through the complete process, from design, planning, budget, permitting, and construction, all the way to completion. We prefer to enter into a client relationship at the beginning of the process so we can design to budget, aesthetics, and construction realities.
The design and permitting process typically ranges between 3-6 months
Construction typically ranges from 4-7 months
These timeframes are loose due a variety of factors such as: speed of planning department, clients’ decision making process, material availability, trade contractor scheduling, etc… However, we pride ourselves in keeping a tight schedule and delivering projects on time and on budget.
ADUs typically cost between $225,000 and $375,000 — including design + permit costs. The most important variables are size, material selections, and number of stories. Unlike architects or drafters, Mills Builders knows construction costs, and we do not design projects outside a client’s budget range. This saves time, money, and avoids unnecessary heartache.
Additional Resources
-The City of Sacramento is a good resource for learning more about the process
-Find out if you qualify for a $40,000 pre-construction loan!
-Learn more about different financing options. Mills Builders can also help you through the process of securing financing during the design phase.
-Sacramento County just released its own permit ready ADU plans!
Note: any pre-designed plan will need work from a draftsperson and engineer to get it approved in permitting and fit your property, and these county’s plans can offer inspiration if nothing else: