Permitted versus unpermitted
A permitted ADU can add appeal and, for some buyers, income potential. An unpermitted unit is a disclosure item and may affect financing, appraisal, and insurance. Pull the permit history for your property and share it. Buyers will read ADU feasibility and ADU rental income and financing to decide what your unit is worth to them.
Rental records
If the ADU or main house is rented, prepare current leases, rent history, deposits, and a summary of expenses. Investor buyers will underwrite the numbers. Lenders count rental income under their own rules.
Tenant rights come with the sale
California has statewide tenant protections, and the City of San Diego has its own rules. A sale does not automatically end a lease. If a tenant must leave, there are notice and, in some cases, relocation requirements. Get current legal guidance before listing a tenant-occupied property, and plan showings with proper notice.
Who is your buyer?
Owner-occupants may want the ADU for family or flexible space. Investors care about rents and condition. Neighborhoods like North Park, Clairemont, and Normal Heights attract both. Marketing should speak to the most likely buyer for your property.