Converted garage as income-earning small home in exurban LA

When Chris Aune bought his home in Lancaster, California, he was looking for a place for just himself and his dogs so he didn't need all 1400 square feet. He also didn't need a "home for his car" so he converted his garage into his home.
He now rents the original home for more than the cost of his mortgage and figures he can pay off his home in 4 or 5 years. Meanwhile, he parks in the driveway and lives comfortably in the 575-square-foot ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit- AKA backyard cottage, granny flat, in-law unit).
* Filmed by Johnny Sanphillippo -- more of his stories about urbanism, adaptation & resilience: granolashotgun.com/
Original story: faircompanies.com/videos/view/...

[@melangreathouse2209]

OK! THIS VIDEO IS 6 YEARS OLD! And I am JUST seeing it today! I agree with the consensus, that Chris, you "thought it through first", and made a VERY SMART DECISION! You show extraordinary wisdom at your age. Not many Californians, would go this route, at the outset, of purchasing a new home. Kudos you, although it's belated, for a job well done!!!

[@shelleygreyrealtor]

This is so amazing because we need more affordable housing, everywhere. Great that the city of Lancaster understands that.

[@natalieshelby9800]

I also live in a converted garage studio, with my husband and dog. It's small but we love our place and the neighborhood. It helps keep the clutter down, expenses and our dog has a backyard to enjoy. It's our little oasis on the west side of LA.

[@frankcastle7777]

As far as all the tiny house ideas I LOVE this one the best. It seems to be more practical and he is making money. I believe a lot of the tiny house build are not going to last and have no resale value like this mans house. GOOD WORK AND GOD BLESS!

[@kathievolk6128]

Had to watch when I realized this is my neighborhood! Great conversion.

[@Bonobo3D]

Very creative. The common thread in all these small home stories is how the owners appreciate life more with less.

[@fancysfolly554]

Smart kid...great idea! When my son and his wife divorced, my daughter in law and 2 grandkids moved into our little retirement home nearby..we are staying in our bigger house until the grandkids are out of school and don’t need the house anymore...we had a rec room in the attic above our garage..we converted it into a studio apartment..now my son, who has serious health problems, lives there...our daughter in law and the little ones remain in the bosom of the family...the rent they pay helps us, a retired couple, and they have affordable rent...they r able to live life..without being saddles w huge rent...it’s a win win for all of us...more families should do this...it was not uncommon years ago..families had to stick together and work together...esp with children involved..

[@TheDtfamu89]

I would rent this because of the quality of the kitchen.

[@nameofthepen]

I saw a concrete floor in a magazine once that had been buffed to perfect smoothness, then a pro painter was hired to come in and paint a beautiful marble design on the whole thing, and then, it was sealed with several clear protective coats. It was gorgeous, and nearly undetectable from real marble. :)

[@dasalekhya]

DUDE ! since you don't use your

[@leighiauy]

I like the house, it´s clutter free and has everything you need. I also like that it pays on its own. Good job!

[@ACCOMPLISHEDSHEIS]

This is the best conversion of a small space I ever saw. Nice, cozy yet elegant..especially the kitchen. All he need to do is add some paint and art to the space and he space will become a luxury living.

[@cristinaferreira2230]

This home is beautiful .

[@hollyhocks7360]

I’ve lived in worse as a student nurse for years. Great way to clear the mortgage in five years or so.

[@southengirl1]

I remember seeing your video some years back, and was so glad you posted. Thank you again.

[@rotarytruck]

French doors replacing the window behind the recliner opening up to a deck. More living space.

[@tracyshudo9972]

I think you did a great job and made a very wise choice. Good for you. Glad you also take care of your dogs so well.

[@honeygirlnz]

Good on you Chris Aune. You'll be mortgage free in 5years. Someone else paying your mortgage off. You built yourself a living space you are content to live in, or your Mom can live in, in her golden years. My interet piqued when I think I heard the tenant say "Kia Ora" which is a Maori greeting, so make me wonder if he is a New Zealander? Great video, awesome little living space for a single person.:)

[@westgl2006]

I agree a Murphy bed would open the main living space, I have seen Murphy Beds that when folded up convert into a couch, and cabinates, so they have a dual function and do Not give the awkward feel of being inside someones bedroom and whatknought, i think the word whatknaught is completely underused, he should said it at least another

[@tlea1223]

Every mother wants their child to meet a smart sensitive partner like this....BRAVO...BRAVO..!!!!