Tempe, Arizona
Tempe's older housing stock has character worth preserving — and often have strong renovation potential. We specialize in gut remodels, historic home updates, and ADU conversions that respect the original while delivering modern performance.
Services in Tempe
Why Tempe
Tempe has one of the highest concentrations of pre-1980 housing in the East Valley. The neighborhoods closest to Mill Avenue, ASU's campus, and the Tempe Town Lake corridor are full of mid-century ranch homes and bungalows that buyers specifically seek out for renovation potential. These are not cookie-cutter flips — they're thoughtful renovations by owners who want a home that reflects modern living without losing what makes the house interesting.
Working on pre-1980 homes requires experience that goes beyond cosmetic remodeling. Galvanized water pipes corrode from the inside and should be replaced during any kitchen or bathroom remodel. Aluminum wiring from the 1960s–1970s requires proper pig-tail connection devices at every outlet and switch — not just a coat of paint over the old wiring. Popcorn ceilings in pre-1978 homes may contain asbestos and require testing before demo. We handle all of it, coordinated correctly.
Tempe is also a strong ADU market, especially near ASU. Detached garage conversions near ASU often rent in the $1,200–$1,600/month range depending on location, size, and finish level. We've built multiple ADUs in Tempe and know the City's permit process, utility connection requirements, and what makes these spaces rent well.
Recent Tempe Work
Common Questions
In most cases, yes. In many cases, the solution is COPALUM or AlumiConn pig-tail connections at every device — far less disruptive than a full rewire. However, if your panel is undersized for modern appliance loads, upgrading it during a kitchen remodel often makes sense. We coordinate with licensed electricians and pull all permits so there are no issues at inspection.
Full gut remodels on Tempe ranch homes typically run 3–6 months. The sequence is: demo and hazmat testing (asbestos on pre-1978 popcorn ceilings, lead paint on trim), rough plumbing and electrical, HVAC, insulation and drywall, then all finish work. We phase the project carefully and can often structure the work so you can remain in part of the home during construction.
Yes — this is one of our most common Tempe projects. A finished studio or 1-bedroom ADU from a detached garage typically costs $60,000–$110,000 depending on size, kitchen scope, and finish level. We handle Tempe's ADU permit, separate electrical metering, mini-split HVAC, and full interior finishes. ADUs near ASU routinely rent for $1,200–$1,600/month.
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Tempe, AZ
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