Latest news with #ADU
Business Wire
7 hours ago
- Business
- Business Wire
AWG Responds to San Diego Housing Policy Changes: ‘We're Just Getting Started'
SAN DIEGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--In the wake of recent changes to the City of San Diego's ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) Density Bonus Program, Atlas West Group (AWG)—widely regarded as the region's most forward-thinking infill and ADU developer—announced today that it is expanding its business strategy to meet the evolving needs of California's housing market. 'We saw signs of turbulence at City Hall over a year ago,' said Daniel Shkolnik, CEO and founder of AWG. 'That's why we've spent the past 12 months preparing for a new landscape – so we can continue to lead, not follow.' AWG's approach was recently highlighted in The San Diego Union-Tribune, where Shkolnik underscored the ADU bonus program's impact on workforce housing—and AWG's outsize role in accelerating infill development. 'We recognized the power of the program to move the needle,' Shkolnik said in the story, which spotlighted AWG's leadership in the region's infill housing boom. Affordable housing savior or neighborhood destroyer? Meet the developer behind San Diego's biggest ADU projects Now, despite the city's rollback of key ADU incentives, AWG isn't slowing down—it's shifting gears. The firm will continue leveraging remaining ADU tools where effective, but is aggressively expanding into new for-sale housing: townhomes, rowhomes, and condominiums that meet urgent regional demand and serve underserved buyer segments. 'This is a natural evolution,' Shkolnik said. 'We're doubling down on what we've always done — delivering smart, urban infill housing — but now we're building for both renters and buyers. We're especially focused on delivering starter homes and attainable housing options for young families, first-time buyers, and seniors, the people who have been priced out of San Diego's housing market.' AWG will remain a dominant force in the ADU space — leveraging its expertise to continue delivering for-rent infill housing through existing density tools. Simultaneously, the firm is actively embracing new policy opportunities like AB 1033, which unlocks pathways for the development of more for-sale housing in urban neighborhoods. 'We've built our reputation by thinking differently and acting early,' Shkolnik said. 'We've never waited for permission or consensus – we've led. Being a maverick isn't a marketing line for us. It's our business model.' With a growing pipeline of both rental and for-sale housing, AWG is doubling down on innovation, execution, and impact, positioning itself to lead the next wave of housing solutions across California — one project, one neighborhood, and one family at a time. ABOUT: Atlas West Group is a privately held full-service development and investment firm operating throughout San Diego County. The company is a premier provider of urban-infill housing and specializes in transforming underutilized properties into vibrant multifamily communities. Atlas West utilizes innovative permitting programs and creative construction strategies to bring out-of-the-box solutions to the region's housing shortage and affordability crisis. The Atlas West team brings decades of experience to real estate development projects, giving the firm the network, reach, and insights needed to navigate complex situations and deliver results.
Associated Press
13 hours ago
- Business
- Associated Press
Avorino Advises California Homeowners to Lock in ADU Projects Before Policy Shifts
Infrastructure stress and political shifts may bring change—homeowners in LA, OC, Bay Area, and SD should build now while the opportunity lasts IRVINE, CA, UNITED STATES, July 23, 2025 / / -- California's ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) boom is in full swing, transforming backyards into income-producing properties. But according to Kasper Vianna, owner of Orange County–based construction firm Avorino, the favorable environment may only last a few more years before regulation and political pressures change the landscape. 'ADUs are a fantastic opportunity for homeowners right now—but this window won't stay wide open forever,' said Vianna. 'We expect things to remain viable for the next few years, but longer-term, there are clear signs that change is coming.' What Are ADUs and Why Are They So Popular? Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)—also known as granny flats, in-law units, or backyard homes—are self-contained residential structures built on the same lot as an existing single-family home. They include a kitchen, bathroom, living area, and sleeping space and can be attached, detached, or converted from an existing space like a garage. In recent years, the State of California has passed multiple laws to encourage ADU development as a response to the ongoing housing crisis. These laws have simplified permitting, reduced parking requirements, overridden local zoning restrictions, and limited the ability of cities to reject compliant applications. This streamlined process has opened the doors for thousands of homeowners to create more living space or generate rental income on their existing properties. However, industry experts like Vianna believe this ADU-friendly climate is unlikely to last. Early Warning Signs: Infrastructure Can Only Handle So Much As more homeowners build ADUs in places like Los Angeles, Orange County, San Diego, and the Bay Area, infrastructure in many neighborhoods is becoming stretched. Parking shortages, water and sewer capacity issues, and electrical grid loads are already surfacing. 'In cities like Garden Grove, Santa Ana, Brea, and La Habra, we're seeing neighborhoods that were never designed to handle this kind of density,' Vianna said. 'It's still legal—for now—but as complaints rise, cities will likely start to resist or restrict.' Avorino has built or is currently building ADUs in cities across Orange County, including La Habra, Garden Grove, Santa Ana, Orange, Irvine, San Juan Capistrano, Villa Park, Brea, Buena Park, Anaheim, and others. Legal Resistance: Cities Testing the Boundaries The legal tension between local governments and state mandates is growing. Huntington Beach, often labeled California's most conservative city, made headlines in 2023 after it stopped processing ADU and SB 9 applications. The California Attorney General and Governor's office filed suit, citing violations of the Housing Element Law and the Housing Crisis Act of 2019, which are designed to increase housing supply. The state argued that Huntington Beach's refusal to process applications would 'restrict housing production and worsen affordability for families across the region' Huntington Beach officials defended their stance, citing concerns about local resources, community character, and environmental protection. They argued that dense housing mandates could negatively impact groundwater supply, protected wildlife areas, and coastal quality of life. As a charter city, they claimed legal authority to set their own zoning policies and framed the state's action as government overreach. Vianna noted, 'This case shows both sides have legitimate concerns. If state leadership shifts, or enforcement weakens, more cities might pursue similar paths—and that could limit how freely ADUs can be built.' Strong Economics for the Time Being Despite future uncertainty, ADUs continue to offer strong financial upside for homeowners in 2025. A 1,000-square-foot ADU can cost around $400,000 to build. It can rent for $3,000 to $4,000/month in high-demand areas. A 30-year loan at 8% would cost ~$3,000/month in debt service. Many homeowners see neutral or positive cash flow immediately. 'If tenants can pay your loan, and you still own the asset, that's a win,' said Vianna. 'In cities like Irvine, LA, San Diego, and the Bay Area, this is true more often than not.' Disclaimer: Not financial advice. Consult with a licensed advisor before making investment decisions. Comparing ADUs to Traditional Real Estate Investing In metro California, a modest 2-bed home can cost upwards of $800,000 to $1 million—and generate similar rent to an ADU. The difference? With an ADU, homeowners avoid buying land, skip escrow fees, and build on their existing property—often for less than half the cost of a new home purchase. Real Example: Santa Ana Homeowner Creates Cash Flow One Avorino client in Downtown Santa Ana built an 830 sqft, 2-bed, 2-bath ADU in 2024 for approximately $350,000. The project was fully financed through a bank loan. The ADU rents for $3,500/month, generating strong positive cash flow from day one. 'The rent will only increase, interest rates may drop, and the property value continues to appreciate,' said Vianna. 'That means homeowners can win on multiple fronts—monthly income, equity growth, and refinancing opportunities down the line.' 'That's not speculation—that's strategic investing on your own land,' he added. Misconceptions About Affordability Some homeowners hesitate to build an ADU due to perceived high costs. Vianna encourages them to look at the numbers differently. 'If you get a $400,000 loan at 8% interest, your monthly payment is about $3,000. If your ADU can rent for more than that—and in most areas, it can—you're already ahead,' he said. 'This is how real wealth is built.' Timeline to Build Is Longer Than Most Think Even though ADU construction is permitted statewide, the process still involves: site assessment, architectural & structural plans, city approval and permitting, utility planning, construction and inspection. 'The time from first call to move-in-ready ADU is about 12 months, even in a best-case scenario,' Vianna said. 'Which is why the best time to start is now. If you wait until 2026, you may run into new rules—or miss the window entirely.' Limited Availability for 2026 Projects Avorino is currently accepting a limited number of new ADU clients for the remainder of 2025, with most builds slated to begin in 2026. 'We're focused on quality and client success. That means we don't overbook,' said Vianna. 'If you want to build in the near future, reach out now so we can design and permit your project ahead of the curve.' How to Get Started Check Your Lot: Not all properties qualify—Avorino offers free consultations to assess feasibility Understand the Costs: Financing is available for many homeowners; the right structure makes all the difference Schedule a Call: Visit /schedule-a-meeting to speak with an expert About Avorino Avorino is a luxury design-build firm based in Irvine, California, specializing in high-end ADUs and custom homes. Known for white-glove service, fast timelines, and in-house project management, Avorino helps homeowners navigate the entire process—from idea to keys-in-hand. As California's housing environment continues to evolve, timing and execution are critical. Homeowners who act now can capitalize on laws designed to empower them—before shifting politics or overwhelmed municipalities change the rules. The most strategic investments are often the simplest: making better use of what you already own. For many, an ADU is not just a structure—it's a long-term financial tool. Whether to house family, earn rental income, or increase resale value, an ADU remains one of the most powerful ways to unlock the hidden value of your property. (California General-B License: 1107538) Kasper Vianna Avorino Custom Home & ADU +1 714-900-3676 [email protected] Visit us on social media: Instagram Legal Disclaimer: EIN Presswire provides this news content 'as is' without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author above.
Zawya
08-07-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Abu Dhabi University expands Academic Portfolio to 65 with 21 new future-focused programs
Abu Dhabi, UAE: Abu Dhabi University (ADU) has introduced 21 new programs as part of its Fall 2025-2026 academic portfolio, spanning a diverse range of disciplines, designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to drive meaningful impact across high-priority sectors. Bringing ADU's total number of academic programs to 65, the newly launched offerings have been approved by the Commission for Academic Accreditation (CAA) and span undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral levels. They cater to high-demand fields such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, renewable energy, public health, clinical psychology, educational technologies, digital communication, video game design, law, and intelligent systems engineering. The programs have been meticulously designed to address critical themes like ethical hacking, data privacy, behavioral analysis, healthcare leadership, and digital innovation, reflecting both current and future workforce needs in key sectors. The expansion underscores ADU's dedication to nurturing skilled talent capable of driving the UAE's transition to a diversified, knowledge-based economy. Professor Ghassan Aouad, Chancellor of ADU, said: 'With our students being at the core of our offering at ADU, we aim to provide world-class programs that equip future leaders with the knowledge and skills necessary to thrive in today's dynamic job market. Our strategically curated programs have been developed using robust market intelligence to address unmet industry needs and prepare our graduates to fill critical talent gaps. By regularly realigning our curriculum with evolving industry needs, not only are we enhancing educational outcomes and graduate employability, but also actively contributing to the UAE's economic visions.' As part of this expansion, ADU has launched several new undergraduate programs, including a BA in International Relations, a BA in Psychology, a BA in Video Game Design, a BSc in Artificial Intelligence, a BSc in Renewable Sustainable Energy Engineering, and a BSc in Clinical Psychology and Mental Health. The postgraduate portfolio now includes a Master of Arts in Digital Communication and Technology, MSc in Cybersecurity, MSc in Artificial Intelligence, MSc in Fintech, MSc in Strategic Digital Transformation, Master of Law in Cyberlaw and Artificial Intelligence, Master of Public Health, Master of Education in Educational Technologies and AI, MSc in Clinical Psychology and Mental Health, Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis, and a Master of Science in Healthcare Leadership. At the doctoral level, ADU has introduced a PhD in Law, PhD in Education, PhD in Intelligent Systems Engineering, and PhD in Engineering Management. By combining rigorous academic training with industry-aligned learning experiences, graduates will be well-positioned for high-demand roles such as cybersecurity analysts, AI engineers, digital transformation specialists, healthcare leaders, legal advisors in cyberlaw, and educational technology consultants. Furthermore, ADU's latest offerings provide flexible pathways to academic and career excellence catering to both new high school graduates and seasoned professionals. ADU continues to invest in academic innovation through a dynamic learning environment that inspires students to pursue their goals and aspirations with confidence. Whether aiming to embark on a new career path or deepen existing knowledge, students enrolled in these new programs will benefit from ADU's commitment to academic excellence, industry engagement, and student success. About Abu Dhabi University: Abu Dhabi University (ADU) is one of the region's leading academic institutions, translating the UAE Government's National Agenda to deliver internationally accredited academic programs and world-class research. Established in 2003, with campuses across Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and Dubai, the University serves around 8,700 students from over 100 nationalities. The University is home to five colleges across different disciplines including arts, education, social sciences, business, engineering, health sciences, and law, while offering a diverse range of over 65 undergraduate and graduate programs. According to the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2025, ADU ranks 191 globally. Additionally, it ranks fourth in the UAE and 172nd globally for its research quality, and it is among the top three universities in the UAE, while holding the number one position in the teaching pillar. Additionally, THE Rankings has recognized the University's Business and Economics subject area as number one in the UAE and the Arab region. The University has made an impressive performance in THE Young University Rankings 2024, ranking in the 60th position globally among the world's best universities that are 50 years or younger. Furthermore, the University jumped to 70th place in the prestigious THE Asia University Rankings 2025 and was ranked first in the UAE for graduate employability as per the 2025 Global University Employability Ranking. Parallelly, ADU ranks 391 globally, according to the 2026 edition of the QS World University Rankings, advancing 110 places and 5th in the UAE, up 2 positions from the previous year. ADU continues to empower faculty and students with state-of-the-art resources, facilities, and learning opportunities that foster innovation and support research-based problem-solving. The University maintains strong international collaborations with leading academic institutions and public and private sector organizations, with institutional accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges' Senior College and University Commission (WASC).
Al Etihad
08-07-2025
- Business
- Al Etihad
Abu Dhabi University introduces 21 new programmes, driving innovation across high-priority sectors
8 July 2025 11:42 ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD) Abu Dhabi University (ADU) has introduced 21 new programmes as part of its Fall 2025-2026 academic portfolio, spanning a diverse range of disciplines, designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to drive meaningful impact across high-priority ADU's total number of academic programmes to 65, the newly launched offerings have been approved by the Commission for Academic Accreditation (CAA) and span undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral levels. They cater to high-demand fields such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, renewable energy, public health, clinical psychology, educational technologies, digital communication, video game design, law, and intelligent systems programmes have been meticulously designed to address critical themes like ethical hacking, data privacy, behavioural analysis, healthcare leadership, and digital innovation, reflecting both current and future workforce needs in key expansion underscores ADU's dedication to nurturing skilled talent capable of driving the UAE's transition to a diversified, knowledge-based of ADU, Professor Ghassan Aouad, said, 'With our students being at the core of our offering at ADU, we aim to provide world-class programmes that equip future leaders with the knowledge and skills necessary to thrive in today's dynamic job market. Our strategically curated programmes have been developed using robust market intelligence to address unmet industry needs and prepare our graduates to fill critical talent gaps. By regularly realigning our curriculum with evolving industry needs, not only are we enhancing educational outcomes and graduate employability, but also actively contributing to the UAE's economic visions.'As part of this expansion, ADU has launched several new undergraduate programmes, including a BA in International Relations, a BA in Psychology, a BA in Video Game Design, a BSc in Artificial Intelligence, a BSc in Renewable Sustainable Energy Engineering, and a BSc in Clinical Psychology and Mental postgraduate portfolio now includes a Master of Arts in Digital Communication and Technology, MSc in Cybersecurity, MSc in Artificial Intelligence, MSc in Fintech, MSc in Strategic Digital Transformation, Master of Law in Cyberlaw and Artificial Intelligence, Master of Public Health, Master of Education in Educational Technologies and AI, MSc in Clinical Psychology and Mental Health, Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis, and a Master of Science in Healthcare the doctoral level, ADU has introduced a PhD in Law, PhD in Education, PhD in Intelligent Systems Engineering, and PhD in Engineering combining rigorous academic training with industry-aligned learning experiences, graduates will be well-positioned for high-demand roles such as cybersecurity analysts, AI engineers, digital transformation specialists, healthcare leaders, legal advisors in cyberlaw, and educational technology consultants. ADU's latest offerings provide flexible pathways to academic and career excellence, catering to both new high school graduates and seasoned continues to invest in academic innovation through a dynamic learning environment that inspires students to pursue their goals and aspirations with confidence. Whether aiming to embark on a new career path or deepen existing knowledge, students enrolled in these new programmes will benefit from ADU's commitment to academic excellence, industry engagement, and student success.
Al Bawaba
08-07-2025
- Business
- Al Bawaba
Abu Dhabi University Expands Academic Portfolio to 65 with 21 New Future-Focused Programs
Abu Dhabi University (ADU) has introduced 21 new programs as part of its Fall 2025-2026 academic portfolio, spanning a diverse range of disciplines, designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to drive meaningful impact across high-priority ADU's total number of academic programs to 65, the newly launched offerings have been approved by the Commission for Academic Accreditation (CAA) and span undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral levels. They cater to high-demand fields such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, renewable energy, public health, clinical psychology, educational technologies, digital communication, video game design, law, and intelligent systems engineering. The programs have been meticulously designed to address critical themes like ethical hacking, data privacy, behavioral analysis, healthcare leadership, and digital innovation, reflecting both current and future workforce needs in key sectors. The expansion underscores ADU's dedication to nurturing skilled talent capable of driving the UAE's transition to a diversified, knowledge-based Ghassan Aouad, Chancellor of ADU, said: 'With our students being at the core of our offering at ADU, we aim to provide world-class programs that equip future leaders with the knowledge and skills necessary to thrive in today's dynamic job market. Our strategically curated programs have been developed using robust market intelligence to address unmet industry needs and prepare our graduates to fill critical talent gaps. By regularly realigning our curriculum with evolving industry needs, not only are we enhancing educational outcomes and graduate employability, but also actively contributing to the UAE's economic visions.'As part of this expansion, ADU has launched several new undergraduate programs, including a BA in International Relations, a BA in Psychology, a BA in Video Game Design, a BSc in Artificial Intelligence, a BSc in Renewable Sustainable Energy Engineering, and a BSc in Clinical Psychology and Mental postgraduate portfolio now includes a Master of Arts in Digital Communication and Technology, MSc in Cybersecurity, MSc in Artificial Intelligence, MSc in Fintech, MSc in Strategic Digital Transformation, Master of Law in Cyberlaw and Artificial Intelligence, Master of Public Health, Master of Education in Educational Technologies and AI, MSc in Clinical Psychology and Mental Health, Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis, and a Master of Science in Healthcare the doctoral level, ADU has introduced a PhD in Law, PhD in Education, PhD in Intelligent Systems Engineering, and PhD in Engineering combining rigorous academic training with industry-aligned learning experiences, graduates will be well-positioned for high-demand roles such as cybersecurity analysts, AI engineers, digital transformation specialists, healthcare leaders, legal advisors in cyberlaw, and educational technology consultants. Furthermore, ADU's latest offerings provide flexible pathways to academic and career excellence catering to both new high school graduates and seasoned professionals. ADU continues to invest in academic innovation through a dynamic learning environment that inspires students to pursue their goals and aspirations with confidence. Whether aiming to embark on a new career path or deepen existing knowledge, students enrolled in these new programs will benefit from ADU's commitment to academic excellence, industry engagement, and student success.
