Is a Garage Conversion Worth It in California?

A Smart Guide from Mareci & Steele Construction, Altadena’s Trusted Remodel Experts

If you’ve ever typed “garage conversion contractor near me” or “ADU vs. garage conversion California”, you’re not alone. With housing prices climbing and families needing more usable space, garage conversions are one of the smartest and most cost-effective ways to expand your living area, without building from the ground up.

At Mareci & Steele Construction, we’ve helped homeowners across Altadena, Pasadena, and the San Gabriel Valley transform their garages into income units, home offices, guest rooms, and more. Here’s what you need to know if you’re thinking about doing the same.

What is a Garage Conversion?

A garage conversion turns your existing garage attached or detached, into a fully livable space. This could be:

  • A home office
  • A rental/ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit)
  • A gym or studio
  • A guest suite
  • An extra bedroom or family room

Instead of building a full addition, you’re repurposing space that’s already there, making it faster and more affordable.

garage conversion

What Does a Garage Conversion Cost in California?

Depending on size, permits, and desired finishes, you can expect to spend between $30,000+ and $90,000+ for a full garage conversion.

Things that impact cost:

  • Plumbing & electrical upgrades
  • HVAC or mini-split systems
  • Insulation, drywall, flooring, windows
  • Kitchenettes or bathrooms (for ADU-style conversions)
  • City permits, plans, and inspections

We offer realistic quotes, not guesses, so you know what’s ahead from day one.

What Can You Use It For?

Homeowners often search:

  • “Can I rent out my garage in California?”
  • “Is it legal to turn my garage into a room?”
  • “Can I build an ADU in my backyard?”

The answer is often yes and we help you:

  • Understand city zoning and building codes
  • Design a conversion that adds real value
  • Navigate permits and inspections
  • Maximize functionality and space

Whether you want extra living room, a rental unit, or a place for family to stay, garage conversions are one of the most flexible upgrades you can make.

We Handle Everything From Start to Finish

With Mareci & Steele Construction, you don’t have to figure it out on your own. We provide:

  • Design consultations
  • Full demo & construction
  • Electrical, plumbing, insulation, flooring
  • Windows, doors, AC/heat installs
  • Code-compliant finishing
  • Clean job sites and clear timelines

We work closely with the city, architects, and you, to make it smooth, legal, and stress-free.

Do Garage Conversions Add Value?

Short answer: yes, especially in California.

If done right, they:

  • Add usable square footage
  • Increase resale value
  • Provide potential rental income
  • Make your property more versatile

Detached garage ADUs in LA County and the SGV are in high demand and with limited housing availability, your investment can pay off fast.

Why Work With Mareci & Steele?

We’ve helped clients across the region transform garages into modern, efficient spaces that meet family needs and future goals. Our clients trust us because we’re:

  • Local
  • Licensed
  • Transparent
  • Detail-oriented
  • Easy to work with

We don’t cut corners, we build long-lasting, livable spaces with pride.

Ready to Convert Your Garage?

Let’s turn your unused garage into the space you actually need. 
Based in Altadena | Serving Pasadena, La Crescenta, Monrovia & SGV 
Book a free consult at: www.mareciandsteeleconstruction.com 
Follow us: @mareciandsteeleconstruction


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