Category: Development

Welcome to the Development section, where we break down the policies, trends, and opportunities shaping the built environment in the Bay Area and California at large. For seasoned homeowners, investors, and families planning long-term housing strategies, understanding development isn’t just about watching new buildings go up — it’s about knowing how zoning changes, legislative reforms, and housing innovations impact your property’s value and potential. In recent years, California has led the nation in housing reform, from statewide incentives for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) to landmark laws like AB 1033, which for the first time allows homeowners in participating cities to condo-convert ADUs into independently saleable units. These pieces of legislation aren’t abstract policy — they’re practical tools that homeowners can use to unlock equity, create multigenerational living options, and adapt their properties to better fit today’s housing economy. Our Development category explores these topics with local context: which Bay Area municipalities have adopted forward-looking ordinances, how laws like SB-9 and ADU streamlining are altering what’s possible on your lot, and how planning departments across San José, Santa Cruz, San Francisco, and beyond are updating their codes in response to shifting state mandates and community pressures.

We also dive into the mechanics of development — from what it takes to secure permits and design compliant, market-ready units, to the financial considerations of construction costs, projected rental income, resale values, and long-term return on investment. Whether you’re thinking about building an ADU to supplement retirement income, considering a lot split under SB-9 to create a family compound, or tracking where AB 1033 is rolling out next, this category equips you with data-backed insight and real-world examples. Development is no longer just for builders and planners; it’s an integral part of how today’s Bay Area homeowners realize value from their biggest asset — their home. Bookmark this space for ongoing forecasts, policy summaries, and strategic takeaways that help you make informed decisions in a rapidly evolving landscape.