Figuring out your budget for an accessory dwelling unit (or ADU) can be overwhelming. There’s so much to consider, and costs vary wildly. Whether building an addition, granny flat, or carriage house, getting a professional opinion at the outset is important. That way, you know the size and layout of your addition will meet the needs of those living there, like kids, in-laws, or aging parents. And you’ll reduce the chance of overspending – on either the project or the lot itself – if you don’t do your homework before buying a home.
Finding a good accessory dwelling unit builder will help you create a fully-customized plan for any style of ADU and create a perfect home for those you love! Read on to learn why you should consider constructing an ADU.
What Is an Accessory Dwelling Unit?
An Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is a space that can be used as an extension of your primary residence. It may be attached to your house or detached from it, but it must be legally classified as a separate dwelling unit (LDU).
They are Good for the Environment
If you’re worried about the environment, you should consider constructing an accessory dwelling unit (ADU). These are small structures on your property that can be used as extra bedrooms or offices and help reduce the amount of space required by your home.
ADUs are good for the environment because they help to reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions by allowing homeowners to use their existing property as extra living space. According to the U.S. Department of Energy’s Residential Energy Consumption Survey (RECS), ADUs can reduce heating and cooling costs by up to 30%.
Attractive for People with Older Families
Many older people who own their homes are looking for creative ways to make their homes more comfortable and accessible. An accessory dwelling unit is a great way to do just that. This type of construction allows homeowners who have reached retirement age or beyond to stay in their homes while still maintaining their independence.
These units can be built on the back or side of your home, allowing you or your loved ones to live in a separate space without moving out completely. You will still have access to all of the amenities of your home, including water and electricity. Still, you will also have your own space where you can relax after a long day at work or enjoy some time alone with friends and family members without worrying about disturbing anyone else in the house.
Enhances Property Value
They can help increase the value of your property and make it more attractive to potential buyers. You may be able to sell your home quicker if you build an ADU on top of it since it creates square footage and gives buyers more options when they’re looking at purchasing your home.
Has Rental Income
The ADU allows you to rent out rooms in your home or rent them out without restrictions like a hotel might have bylaws about how many guests can stay there at once. It can be very useful when getting back on your feet after losing your job or divorce. It lets you make some extra money without having any strings attached, like having to pay rent every month, which would require more time away from work which means less money coming into your pocket.
Accessory dwelling units are great for homeowners who want to make extra money on their properties but don’t have time to manage them themselves. Or maybe you have an old home falling apart and need something more spacious or affordable than the average house would be worth.
Alternatively, maybe you own several pieces of land and don’t know what to do with it all! In this case, an accessory dwelling unit could be perfect for you—it will give you some extra space while also making it easier to sell if needed down the road.
In most major metropolitan areas, living costs have reached extreme levels. Your choice to construct an ADU can help you save money on housing in general and also give you extra revenue from renting out the units. It can help your family get through a difficult financial time without deciding where to live—deciding whether or not to build an ADU often comes down to finances. Building an ADU makes financial sense for your household, so you should strongly consider doing it.
