Why CASITA Chose Construction Management Over the Traditional ADU Contractor Model
The Californer/10355456

SAN DIEGO - Californer -- When CASITA ADU began developing its approach to accessory dwelling unit projects, the goal was not to become another traditional general contractor. The team saw an opportunity to build a different kind of relationship with homeowners—one centered on coordination, transparency and informed decision-making.

That thinking eventually became the foundation of The CASITA Way, CASITA's approach to guiding homeowners through feasibility, early cost planning, design, permitting, competitive bidding, builder selection and construction management.

One of the biggest concerns the CASITA team observed was how quickly homeowners could become committed to a construction path before having the opportunity to compare the market. In a traditional contractor-led model, the same company may design, price and ultimately build the project. CASITA chose a different structure.

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"We wanted homeowners to have an opportunity to understand the project before committing to who would build it," said Winston Bodkin, Chief Operating Officer of CASITA. "That means understanding the scope, having realistic cost expectations and being able to compare qualified builders before making one of the largest financial decisions associated with the project."

CASITA's process is reflected in three words used throughout the company: Design. Bid. Build.

The design and permitting phases are used to develop the project and establish clearer expectations. Once the project is ready for construction, CASITA coordinates competitive bids from qualified builders and helps the homeowner review differences in pricing, scope and value.

The homeowner ultimately selects the builder, while CASITA continues in a construction management role to help coordinate the project.

For Bodkin, the distinction is important.

"Our role is different because we are not trying to win the construction contract," he said. "We can focus on helping the homeowner evaluate the options in front of them and understand what they are agreeing to."

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The company says its model has continued to evolve through real projects, feedback from homeowners and input from the CASITA team.

That evolution became what CASITA now refers to as The CASITA Way—a coordinated approach designed to give homeowners greater visibility from the beginning of an ADU project through construction.

As California continues expanding opportunities for accessory dwelling units, CASITA believes homeowners will increasingly look beyond simply finding someone who can build an ADU and pay closer attention to how the project is planned, priced and managed.

About CASITA ADU

CASITA ADU is a San Diego County-based ADU construction management agency guiding homeowners through feasibility, design, permitting, competitive bidding, builder selection and construction management. Its Design. Bid. Build. approach forms the foundation of The CASITA Way.

https://www.casitaadu.com/