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What is an ADU?
Accessory Dwelling Units are independent residential units that help homeowners maximize property use, generate additional income, and accommodate various housing needs in urban and suburban settings. An Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is a secondary, independent residential unit located on the same lot as a primary single-family home. ADUs are also commonly referred to as granny flats, in-law suites, backyard cottages, guest houses, or secondary suites.
Key Characteristics of ADUs:
Independent Living Space:
Includes separate kitchen, bathroom, living area, and sleeping quarters.Separate Entry:
Typically has its own external entrance separate from the main dwelling.Location Variations:
Detached: Standalone structures separate from the main home.
Attached: Connected to the main home (e.g., an addition or extension).
Interior: Located within the existing home, like a converted basement, attic, or garage.
Size and Scale:
Generally smaller than the primary residence; local zoning laws often regulate maximum size.
Five Steps to Build your ADU
Vision: Identify what you hope to achieve with an ADU, and what it may look like within your property.
Assessment: Review local jurisdiction requirements and see how that applies to your existing home and see if there is a match with your vision.
Financial Review: Before you move forward to the next steps its imperative to identify a rough estimate and assess your options to pay for the construction. Once you know costs and how you plan to finance the project, its time to review a monthly cash flow to see if the investment meets your criteria.
Go/No Go Decision: Sleep on it, if it’s a go, then you are onto the next step.
Pick the Team for Design and Construction
Benefits of ADUs
Housing Flexibility: Offers options for extended family, caregivers, or renters.
Income Generation: Can serve as a rental unit for additional income.
Property Value: Often increases property marketability and value.
Affordable Housing: Provides smaller, more affordable living spaces, supporting density without extensive redevelopment.
Sustainable Urban Growth: Promotes efficient land use in urban and suburban areas.
Regulatory Considerations:
Zoning and building codes vary significantly by locality.
Usually require municipal approval and building permits.
May have specific regulations for parking, setbacks, height, occupancy, and owner-occupancy requirements.
Examples of ADUs:
Garage Apartments: Converting existing garages into residential spaces.
Basement Apartments: Fully finished basement living units with separate entrances.
Backyard Cottages: Small, standalone houses in the backyard.
Get the info you need every step of the way.
Join the ADU Club.
Let the ADU Advisory Club help you achieve your vision. When you join our community, you get:
Online courses and learn what the steps for success.
Meet others just like you who have already had similar questions
Find experts to hire.
Use your personal ADU Advisor throughout the process.
