What a garage, ADU, or addition costs in Eugene.
Honest ballpark ranges for the projects we build — and what actually drives the price — so you can plan before your free consultation.
Quick Cost Snapshot
- A garage-to-ADU conversion typically runs $50k–$85k.
- A detached, ground-up ADU typically runs $130k–$230k (~$210–$350/sq ft).
- Custom garages and additions are priced to your real size, site, and finish — not a misleading average.
- Up to 120% financing can cover the whole project.
Garage conversion — about $50k–$85k
Converting an existing garage into living space reuses the slab, walls, and roof already there, making it the most affordable path to finished square footage or a full ADU. The big variables: the condition of the slab, the insulation and egress upgrades required, and whether you add a kitchen and bathroom.
Detached ADU — about $130k–$230k
A ground-up backyard cottage runs roughly $210–$350 per square foot in the Eugene area, depending on size, finish, and site. You're building a complete little home — foundation, framing, kitchen, bath, and utilities — so it costs more than a conversion, but it adds the most value and rents the best.
| Garage Conversion | New Detached ADU | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical cost | $50k–$85k | $130k–$230k |
| Cost per sq ft | Lower (reuses structure) | ~$210–$350 |
| Timeline | Faster | Longer (ground-up) |
| Keeps your garage? | No | Yes |
| Best for | Budget & speed | Max value & privacy |
Custom garage — priced to your build
A simple detached garage and a heated shop with an apartment above are very different numbers. Rather than quote a misleading "average," we price your garage to its real size, height, slab, and finish at your consultation.
Home addition — varies by scope
A bump-out, a primary-suite addition, and a full second story span a wide range, since additions also carry structural tie-in and matching costs.
What drives the price
- Size & square footage — the single biggest factor.
- Level of finish — basic vs. high-end fixtures, flooring, and cabinetry.
- Site & slope — flat, easy-access lots cost less than steep or tight ones.
- Permits & SDCs — system development charges on new dwelling units are a real line item.
- Structural work — reinforcing for a second story or above-garage unit.
- Building method — traditional stick framing vs. energy-efficient SIP panels.
Financing makes a bigger project possible
Through our partner HFS Financial, you can fund a garage, ADU, conversion, or addition with up to 120% financing — no home equity or appraisal required. An ADU can even cash-flow from day one as a rental.
Cost questions
Why don't you publish a fixed garage price?
Garages vary enormously by size, height, slab, and finish — a single 'average' would mislead more than help. We price your specific garage at a free, no-obligation consultation.
Does the cost include permits?
We pull and manage your permits as part of the project. System Development Charges (SDCs) on new dwelling units are a separate city fee we'll account for in your budget.
What is an SDC?
A System Development Charge is a one-time city fee on a new dwelling unit for water, sewer, stormwater, and transportation infrastructure — an important line item to plan for on an ADU.
Can I finance the whole project?
Yes — up to 120% financing is available through HFS Financial, with no home equity or appraisal required, and checking your rate won't affect your credit.
How long does it take?
Every Red Umbrella project moves through four phases:
- Free consultation — Bari walks your property and talks through what’s possible.
- Design — drawings, scope, and a real price for your lot and budget.
- Permitting — typically 6–16 weeks in Eugene; we pull and manage it.
- Construction — built start to finish by our licensed crew.
Total time depends on the project’s size and your jurisdiction — Bari gives you a realistic schedule at your consultation.
ADU vs. home addition
| Backyard ADU | Home Addition | |
|---|---|---|
| What it is | A separate dwelling on your lot | More space added onto your house |
| Rental income | Yes — strong | No |
| Privacy | Fully separate unit | Part of your home |
| Typical cost | $130k–$230k (detached) | Varies by scope |
| Best for | Rental, guests, aging family | More room for your household |
Not sure which fits? Bari will help you decide at a free consultation.
Want a real number for your project?
Bari will walk your property and give you an honest price — free, no obligation.
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