Garage Conversion in Sunnyvale
A garage conversion is the fastest and most affordable way to add living space to your Sunnyvale home, with projects typically ranging from $150K to $250K. Custom Home handles design, permits, and construction with the same 3D visualization process we use for our custom homes.
How much does a garage conversion cost in Sunnyvale?
Garage conversions in Sunnyvale typically range from $150K to $250K depending on size, finishes, and plumbing requirements in 2026. Custom Home provides itemized pricing during Phase 1 so you know every cost before construction starts.
Garage Conversion Options in Sunnyvale
A garage conversion transforms your existing garage into a fully permitted living space. In Sunnyvale, conversions typically cost $150K-$250K, making them the most affordable way to add a bedroom, home office, rental unit, or guest suite to your property. Since the basic structure already exists, you save significantly compared to building new.
Custom Home handles everything from design through construction, using the same 3D visualization process that powers our custom homes. You see the finished space before any work begins.
What a Sunnyvale Garage Conversion Includes
Every Custom Home garage conversion includes:
- Insulation and climate control for year-round comfort
- Electrical upgrades including lighting, outlets, and panel capacity
- Drywall, flooring, and interior finishes to your specifications
- Windows and natural light to meet building code requirements
- Plumbing for kitchen and/or bathroom (if included in scope)
- Separate entrance for independent access
Sunnyvale Permits and Parking Requirements
Sunnyvale’s Building Division processes residential permits with typical plan review times of 3-6 weeks. The city offers online plan submission and permit tracking. Sunnyvale does not require formal design review for most single-family residential projects, which can simplify and accelerate the permitting process compared to neighboring cities.
Under California state law, most cities cannot require replacement parking when you convert a garage to an ADU. This means you can move forward without building a new parking structure. Custom Home handles all permitting with Sunnyvale’s building department.
Garage Conversion vs. Detached ADU in Sunnyvale
Both options add living space to your Sunnyvale property, but they differ in cost, timeline, and flexibility:
- Cost: Garage conversions ($150K-$250K) cost significantly less than detached ADUs because the structure already exists.
- Timeline: Conversions complete in 4-6 months vs. 8-12 months for detached units.
- Size: Conversions are limited by your existing garage footprint. Detached ADUs can be built up to 1,200 sqft.
- Rental value: Both can generate strong rental income, though larger detached ADUs typically command higher rents.
Custom Home can help you evaluate which option makes the most sense for your property and goals during our Phase 1 design process.
Pricing for Garage Conversion in Sunnyvale
Garage conversion costs in Sunnyvale typically range from $150K to $250K depending on garage size, finish level, and plumbing requirements. This is significantly less than building a new structure since the foundation, framing, and roof already exist. Custom Home itemizes every cost during the design phase.
Sunnyvale Permit Requirements
Sunnyvale's Building Division processes residential permits with typical plan review times of 3-6 weeks. The city offers online plan submission and permit tracking. Sunnyvale does not require formal design review for most single-family residential projects, which can simplify and accelerate the permitting process compared to neighboring cities. Custom Home manages the garage conversion permit process, ensuring plans meet all local building codes.
Garage Conversion in Sunnyvale: FAQ
What is the cost of a garage conversion in Sunnyvale?
Garage conversions in Sunnyvale typically cost $150K-$250K depending on garage condition, finish level, and plumbing scope. This is the most affordable way to add a permitted living space to your property.
How long does a garage conversion take in Sunnyvale?
Garage conversions in Sunnyvale typically take 4-6 months from design to completion, making them the fastest path to additional living space. The design phase runs 2-4 weeks, and construction takes 3-5 months.
Can I convert a detached garage in Sunnyvale?
Yes. Both attached and detached garages can be converted to living space in Sunnyvale. Detached garage conversions may qualify as ADUs under California state law. Custom Home evaluates your specific garage during Phase 1 to determine the best approach.