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When it comes to adding value to your property, an ADU can be an excellent choice. These units are less expensive and have minimal impact on the home’s overall value. In addition, ADUs can help you generate income from a separate unit on your property. But with so many types and styles of ADUs available, you may be wondering which one is right for you. This article will provide a brief introduction to ADUs and their various types and styles.
What is an ADU?
An ADU is basically a second unit on your property. This smaller unit is typically less expensive and has less of an impact on your property than a traditional addition would have. Buildings that are meant to be used as ADUs are often called “accessory buildings” or “accessory structures.” Most often, these buildings are used for residential purposes such as an in-law units or a granny flats. An ADU can be a standalone building or attached to your house.
Why Build an ADU?
There are many reasons to build an ADU. First and foremost, you can use it to generate income. If you live in a state that allows ADUs, you can rent out the ADU to tenants and use the rental income to pay for your mortgage and other associated costs of home ownership. Building an ADU can also help with the cost of homeownership. Building an ADU is much less expensive than expanding your home, so if you’re looking to add square footage, it may be a better option. ADUs are also great for family dynamics. If you have parents or other relatives who may need assistance with daily tasks like grocery shopping and cooking, an ADU may be a great option. You can build a separate unit on your property where an aging parent or relative can live while remaining close to family.
Types of ADUs
There are several different types of ADUs. Three common types of ADUs are granny flats, in-law units, and detached cottages. Granny flats are smaller, one-bedroom units that are typically attached to the main part of the house. In-law units are larger, two-bedroom units that are typically detached from the main part of the house. Detached cottages are standalone units that may or may not have an indoor connection to the main house.
Key considerations when choosing an ADU type
When choosing an ADU type, there are some key considerations to keep in mind. First and foremost, you’ll want to make sure that the type of ADU you want to build is allowed in your city or county. Each city and county has different regulations and requirements for what can be built and where, so make sure you know what’s allowed where you live. You’ll also want to consider the amount of square footage you have available and how much square footage the type of ADU you want to build will take up. Finally, you’ll want to think about how the ADU will impact your home’s overall value. Some ADUs may lower the value of your home, while others may actually increase it.
Converting a basement into an ADU
If you already have a basement on your property, you can convert it into an ADU. In order to do this, you will likely need to build an additional stairway, install an egress window, and add an electrical system to power an additional unit. This will cost a bit more than other types of ADUs, but it’s a great option if you already have a basement on your property.
Converting a garage into an ADU
If you have a detached garage on your property, you can convert it into an ADU as well. All you’ll need to do is build an interior wall to separate the garage from the main house, install an egress window, add an electrical system, and possibly a separate stairway.
Conclusion
An ADU is a great way to add value to your property. These units can be less expensive and less invasive than expanding your home. There are many types of ADUs available, so if you’re looking to build a unit on your property, it’s important to know which type is right for you.
