Backed By The Bros: Tackling the Detached ADU

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Last week, we saw Christina and Arek finish their reno project on their attached garage ADU, and it turned out beautifully. Of course, there were bumps along the road, but all in all, the project was a success. But on episode 8 of Backed By The Bros, Drew and Jonathan begin helping Christina and Arek renovate their detached garage ADU—but of course, it’s not without its hiccups, too. Between more design mistakes, advice not taken, emotional and rash decisions, cutting corners, and missing inspections, it’s been a battle getting Christina and Arek’s detached ADU ready for tenants. Will the Brothers regret backing this investment, or will the hard work pay off?

Drew and Jonathan also meet with two new potential investors this episode. The two backings are totally different from one another. One is a rookie investor who’s already drowned his life savings into the property that hasn’t even begun renovations, and the other is a small family looking to start work on a huge two-story renovation on their backyard ADU. There’s a lot at stake for both of these investors—but the Bros can only choose one. And ultimately, their choice will come down to who needs their help more urgently and who has more to lose.

Even after design disagreements and a stressful start to the project, Christina and Arek’s detached ADU ended up a success. The structure isn’t just beautiful, but it’s also functional, cozy, and sound. While walking through the interior, it’s almost hard to believe it was once a garage! Ample storage space, two bedrooms, two bathrooms,

Christina & Arek’s Before and Afters

A Welcome Exterior

Now this is a glow-up! The exterior was finished with new stucco and trim, complete with an overhang and even an open-air garage to the side of the rental. It’s a complete 180 from the typical-looking garage before. Touches like plants and a bench upped the homey curb appeal, too. 

Open Dining and Living

The open flow from the kitchen to the living room makes the main living area a better environment for hosting or movie nights, especially in a space that’s a bit more compact. Using the same wall color throughout both spaces connects the two rooms while also brightening them.

Simply and Cozy Living Room

Cozy seating and multiple places to lounge made Christina and Arek’s living space more inviting. Drew and Jonathan helped further the process by staging the house for them, boosting the potential to get this place rented quickly.

Brightening the Kitchen

Drew and Jonathan helped cover some kitchen reno costs by providing them with free countertops. Christina went with one that complemented the wood tones of the cabinetry and still had that natural coloring to it to tie in the green tile a bit better than butcher block would have. A big farmhouse sink, pot filler, and gold hardware are all small details that, together, create a huge statement.

 

Comfy First Bedroom

The first bedroom is understated and comfortable. Neutral colors and plush fabrics help up the cozy factor, and an added footboard bench provides a relaxing second structure.

Boho Second Bedroom

The second bedroom off the backyard is filled with natural light. Boho-chic decor and comfy bedding provide that inviting feel that everyone needs in a bedroom space.

Because of his dire need for help on a timely project, as well as how green he is to property investment, the Bros decide to back John. He reminds them a lot of themselves when they first got into real estate, and they want to help bring him across the finish line to success without making unnecessary mistakes.

Mike and Beckie don’t plan on starting their project for a while, and when that time comes, Drew and Jonathan will be there to help. For now, however, John has a more pressing need for their expertise.

Tune in next week at 9:00pm ET on MAX to see how John’s renovation progresses, and make sure to let us know what you think on social media.

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