ADU & Garage Conversions in El Modena, California: Building Tomorrow's Living Spaces Today


At Refined ADU Builder & Garage Conversions, we specialize in turning your unused garage into a comfortable, legal living area. We help you maximize your property's value by creating extra living space that fits your needs. Located in the historic community of El Modena—an area named after Modena, Italy, with the Spanish article "el" added—our company understands the unique character and needs of this neighborhood.


Originally settled in the 19th century by Hispanics of Mexican heritage, Californios, and Spanish Americans before California's annexation by the United States, El Modena has a rich cultural heritage that we respect in our work. The area later welcomed Quaker settlers in 1883, who established a local chapter of the Society of Friends, adding to the community's diverse history.


We understand the local rules and work with you during the permitting process to make sure everything goes smoothly. Whether you want a cozy guest unit, a rental space, or more room for family, we guide you through each step to get the best result for your home. Our experience in El Modena means we know how to build quality ADUs and garage conversions that meet local standards. You can trust us to handle your project with care, keeping your vision and budget in mind.



Design and Customization Options


We work closely with you to create ADUs and garage conversions that fit your lifestyle and property. You can control the layout, look, and materials used to ensure the space meets your needs and stays within your budget.


Personalized Floor Plans


You get to choose a floor plan that fits your space perfectly. Whether you want a studio, one-bedroom, or more, we tailor the layout to maximize every square foot. We consider your storage needs, room flow, and natural light. We make sure the design matches how you plan to use the space, whether for a rental, office, or extra living area. With our flexible plans, you can add features like an open kitchen, separate entrances, or built-in closets.


Interior and Exterior Finishes


You pick the finishes that fit your style and budget. Inside, you can choose flooring types like hardwood, tile, or carpet. We offer options for paint colors, cabinets, countertops, and light fixtures to match your taste. For the outside, you can choose siding, trim, and window styles that blend with your home. We help you pick durable materials that look good and require low maintenance over time. This makes sure your ADU or conversion stays attractive and lasts longer.


We offer design options that complement the diverse architectural heritage of El Modena, from structures dating back to when Quaker settlers arrived in 1883 to more modern styles. While the original Quaker church now operates as a Mexican restaurant, its historical influence on local architecture remains, and we can incorporate elements that honor this heritage in your ADU design.


Sustainable Building Materials


We offer eco-friendly choices to help you save energy and reduce waste. You can select insulation with high efficiency to keep the unit comfortable year-round. Our sustainable options include recycled or locally sourced materials, and finishes with low chemical emissions. Using these helps protect the environment and may lower your utility bills. By choosing green materials, you invest in a healthier space for yourself and future tenants or family members.




Financing and Budget Planning


Managing your budget carefully and knowing what financing options are available will help make your project smoother. Understanding costs and funding sources lets you plan realistically from the start.


Cost Estimation


The price to convert a garage or build an ADU depends on many factors. These include the size of the space, materials used, design complexity, and local permit fees. Typical costs for a garage conversion in El Modena start around $80,000 but can go higher depending on upgrades. New ADU construction usually costs more, often between $150,000 and $300,000. Additional expenses to consider are utility connections, inspections, and possible structural work. We help you create a clear budget that fits your goals and avoids surprises.


Available Financing Solutions


We assist you in finding financing that fits your situation. Common options include:


  • Home equity loans or lines of credit: Use your home's value to borrow at a lower interest.
  • Personal loans: Fixed amount with set payments.
  • Government grants and fee waivers: Sometimes available to offset costs in California.
  • Specialized ADU loans: Offered by some lenders designed specifically for accessory home projects.


We guide you through these choices, helping you understand terms and match options to your financial plan. This support makes your project more manageable and affordable.



Maximizing Value with ADU & Garage Conversions


Turning your garage into a living space or adding an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) can boost your home's appeal and financial benefits. Thoughtful design and proper permits are key to making the most of these changes.


Increasing Property Value


Converting a garage or adding an ADU typically raises your property's market value. Buyers often look for homes with flexible living spaces. A properly finished ADU includes a bedroom, bathroom, and kitchen, making your home more attractive to families or multi-generational buyers. This is particularly valuable in El Modena, where many families are low to middle income.


While annexed areas saw property values increase during the real estate booms of the 1990s and 2000s, ADUs offer a way for all homeowners to enhance their property value while providing much-needed additional housing in this increasingly recognized community, which was officially listed as a census designated place as of November 2024.


In El Modena, local rules limit how close additions can be to property lines, so planning for setbacks is important. Meeting these rules while maximizing interior space helps you get the highest value. Adding square footage through garage conversions doesn't just increase living space but also improves functionality. This makes your property stand out compared to others without such upgrades.


Rental Income Opportunities


An ADU or garage conversion creates a private rental unit you can use to earn extra income. With its own entrance, kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping area, it appeals to renters looking for affordable, independent housing. You can rent the space short-term or long-term, depending on local regulations and what fits best with your lifestyle. Rental income can cover mortgage payments or maintenance costs, making this a smart financial move.


Before renting, check local rules on rentals for ADUs. Proper permits and safety measures, including smoke detectors and egress windows, help keep your rental compliant and safe for tenants.



Client Support and Post-Project Services


We focus on making sure your ADU or garage conversion is supported even after construction ends. You'll have peace of mind knowing we offer solid coverage and continued help when you need it.


Warranty and Maintenance


We provide a detailed warranty that covers both materials and workmanship for a set period after your project finishes. This warranty means we fix any defects without extra cost, so you don't have to worry about hidden issues. Beyond the warranty, we offer maintenance plans to keep your new space in good shape. These include regular inspections and minor repairs to prevent bigger problems. We make it easy for you to schedule these services at your convenience. Our team uses quality materials and trusted techniques to reduce the chance of future issues. Still, if something does come up, we respond quickly to make sure it's handled properly.


Ongoing Customer Support


After your project is complete, we continue to be available for questions or concerns you have. Whether you need advice on using your new space or help with upgrades, our support team is ready to assist. We offer prompt communication through multiple channels—phone, email, or in person—so you can reach us in the way that suits you best. Our goal is to ensure you feel confident and informed about your conversion at all times. You can also count on us for guidance if you decide to expand or modify your ADU later. We keep records of your project to make future work smoother and faster.