Apartment Complex ADU Creates New Model for Affordable Housing

Tucked away behind a modest four-plex rental unit on Helen Avenue, and not visible from the street, is a 633-square-foot gem that marks a Sunnyvale first. This stand-alone, one-bedroom accessory dwelling unit (ADU) was constructed on the property of an existing apartment complex owned by ARESA Properties LLC.

The ADU is bathed in light from three high windows in the living area, which is next to a compact but fully-equipped kitchen. High ceilings enhance the sense of space within the unit.

During the ADU ribbon-cutting ceremony on June 7, Santa Clara County Supervisor Otto Lee and Sunnyvale Mayor Larry Klein honored ARESA Properties with certificates of commendation.

“I commend Teresa and Arman,” said Klein, who owns an ADU from the Sunnyvale home he purchased years ago. “What they’re doing is a model for other landlords and a significant step forward for Sunnyvale. It’s about fostering both housing diversity and a diverse community.”

Arman Bashi and Teresa Agustin, the husband-and-wife duo behind the Helen Avenue Apartments ADU, are leading by example with their project. Their first names come together to form ARESA, reflecting their commitment to inspiring "Mom and Pop" property owners to consider adding ADUs to their existing properties.

Bashi, ARESA's CEO and developer, highlighted the financial benefits of adding an ADU. While buying a four-plex locally could cost around $2.1 million—approximately $500,000 per unit—constructing an ADU on an existing property costs between $200,000 and $300,000.

“If you have the land, it’s more cost-effective to build an ADU than to purchase new property,” Bashi said.

Supervisor Lee emphasized the high cost of land and housing, noting, “Land is incredibly expensive, making living here a significant challenge.”

Bashi and Agustin, ARESA's VP of Operations and Principal Partner, are driven by a mission beyond profit. 

“This isn’t about making money. It’s about helping people,” Bashi explained. “We believe we can make a significant impact.”

Since 2015, ARESA has focused on providing affordable housing to low-income individuals and families, often working with nonprofits like Sunnyvale Community Services and Abode Services to make this possible.

Hulita Inukihaangana, originally from Tonga and previously homeless, shared her gratitude at the ribbon cutting. “It’s a huge blessing for our family. We finally have a place we can call ‘home.’”

Agustin goes beyond merely placing tenants in homes. As property manager, she actively supports her tenants by connecting them with necessary social services and providing personal assistance. For instance, when a new tenant needed driving lessons, ARESA arranged six hours of instruction as a gift. Another tenant needed childcare for a job interview, and Agustin drove the family, waiting in the car to entertain the children while the mother attended the interview.

Agustin’s personal connection to the area runs deep. Born in Sunnyvale, her parents immigrated from the Philippines in 1977 and faced challenges finding work and housing. 

“Because a landlord took a chance on my parents, they had stable housing,” Agustin said. Her parents worked hard, saved, and eventually invested in local real estate, purchasing the Helen Avenue Apartments as their second property. “That’s why this location is so special to me.”

Bashi is eager to share his knowledge about building ADUs and encourage others to explore this option. For more information, visit [https://aresaproperties.com/](https://aresaproperties.com/).

“The ribbon-cutting is about promoting the concept of ADUs,” Bashi said. “We hope to educate and inspire others to follow suit.”