Why Most ADUs Never Get Built w/Ryan O'Connell | TBN 007

In this episode of The Builder Nation Podcast, Brian sits down with Ryan O’Connell, founder of How to ADU and one of the most respected ADU policy experts in California.

Everyone says ADUs are the solution to the housing crisis.
California has over 7 million ADU-eligible properties.

So why do so many projects never make it to permit — let alone construction?

This conversation breaks down the real reasons ADU projects stall, fail, or never start at all — and what homeowners and developers actually need to focus on heading into 2026 and beyond.

We cover:

• Why most people never start an ADU project
• Why many projects die before permitting
• The difference between what you can build vs. what you should build
• How bad teams quietly kill good ADU projects
• Why “A-to-Z” ADU firms are often a red flag
• The real role of the developer in ADU success
• Bonus ADUs, AB 1033 condo-ization, JADUs, and policy myths
• When adding units actually destroys property value
• How ADUs evolve into broader density strategies
• What winning with ADUs looks like over the next decade

This episode is essential listening for homeowners, builders, and investors who want to approach ADUs strategically — not emotionally or blindly.

Thinking about building an ADU or need a team to manage your project properly?
Visit TheBuildernation.com/partner

Follow Ryan O’Connell:
YouTube & TikTok: How to ADU
Instagram: @RyanOHousing

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