Tell us about your ADU plans →
Request contact or choose a call time after saving your inquiry. A representative will reach out within 24 hours.
Is this the right starting point for you?
Our initial conversation is designed for California property owners exploring home-equity financing, with or without a prefab model selected. Tell us whether you are researching, comparing costs or ready to explore financing. You do not need a finished design to inquire.
How does financing an ADU work?
- Describe the property and project. Share your ZIP code, ownership, intended use and stage through our inquiry form.
- Explore financing. Discuss possible HELOC options and the information needed for the financing provider’s review.
- Plan your prefab options. Compare designs and obtain a property-specific scope from the appropriate project provider.
- Check the budget and payment timing. Reconcile available funds with the complete scope before committing to orders or deposits.
Can I finance an ADU without refinancing my mortgage?
A HELOC can sit alongside an existing mortgage, adding a separate payment obligation. Ask the lender about terms and repayment; keeping the first mortgage does not ensure a lower overall borrowing cost. See our HELOC for an ADU guide.
What should I compare before borrowing?
HELOCs generally allow repeated draws and usually have variable rates. They are secured by your home, which can be at risk if you cannot repay. Ask about fees, access restrictions and payment changes. Use the financing comparison guide to organize questions rather than choosing from a headline rate alone.
Financing for family space or a potential rental
Describe who will use the ADU and what the layout needs to accomplish. For family, consider privacy and daily access. For a potential rental, evaluate operating expenses and local requirements separately from financing. Do not rely on unconfirmed rent to cover payments or qualify for a loan.
What makes a useful project budget?
A prefab unit price is only one starting figure. Request a written scope covering the unit, site work, delivery, foundation, utilities, permits and installation as applicable. Identify exclusions and who is responsible. Our prefab financing guide connects this budget with payment milestones.
California rules and local property review
Use the California HCD handbook as a statewide resource, then confirm the process with the department responsible for your property. Our Irvine planning guide provides a local example. We do not perform permitting or installation, and financing approval is separate from project approval.
What information do I need to inquire?
Begin with your property ZIP, ownership, project goal, stage and contact preference. Approximate budget and timing can help the conversation. Do not send Social Security numbers or bank documents through the inquiry form. Detailed borrower documents belong in the financing provider’s secure application process.
What happens next?
Choose a callback or save your inquiry and select a time through the booking page. The calendar must confirm an appointment. An inquiry is not a loan application or approval. ADU Fund Co is your initial point of contact for financing and prefab next steps.
Sources & scope
- CFPB: HELOC borrowing and repayment
- CFPB: equity financing alongside an existing mortgage
- California HCD: ADU handbook
Sources checked October 10, 2026. General educational information, not an individual financing recommendation. Loan terms and approval are determined by the lender. ADU Fund Co helps with initial inquiries and next steps.