- MLS listing facts require independent confirmation
- Permits, title, insurance and financing are property-specific
- Source links are informational, not endorsements
Confirm ownership, permits and market value independently
Order applicable title and permit records and compare recorded improvements with MLS remarks. Ask about utility connections, meters, access, fire and safety upgrades, septic capacity where relevant, and whether development conditions or deed restrictions apply. Financing and appraisal treatment depends on the property and program; the agent cannot promise an ADU's rent will count toward borrower income. For a VA buyer, distinguish actual dwelling units from bedrooms and have an experienced lender determine whether the intended property structure fits the loan program. Request an independent inspection of both the primary home and the auxiliary space. Some accessory structures can be sold only with the principal parcel, and any claims about separate sale or short-term renting require records and current local-rule review.
A buyer action plan for a property listing
Compare other homes in the same MLS market with and without verified ADUs rather than assigning a fixed premium to extra space. Before removing due-diligence contingencies, obtain the permit record, written seller disclosures, utility information and an insurance quote that describes the auxiliary building. Ask the lender how the unit will be classified in appraisal and underwriting. If permits are missing, ask the local development-services authority about available records and possible legal pathways without assuming retroactive approval. A specific property's approved unit count and current authorized use, not a search-filter badge, should drive the decision. Use the live San Diego listings below only as a starting pool; the documents for each listing determine the next verification step.