Discover the Key to Boosting Your Home Value
“Commission or revenue may be earned by Hearst Magazines and Yahoo through specific links.” While we appreciate the charm of tiny homes and small city apartments, having more livable space is always preferable. Limited space can restrict your activities, prompting many to consider adding an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) rather than expanding their home.
ADUs are gaining popularity, with projections suggesting they can increase a property’s value by up to 34 percent. What exactly is an ADU? It’s a separate structure on your property that can serve various purposes such as a gym, home office, shed, or in-law unit. Typically ranging from 550 to 650 square feet, ADUs offer a versatile design canvas for homeowners, according to experts like Seth Ballard of Ballard & Mensua Architecture in Washington, D.C.
ADUs are not only a practical solution for the housing shortage but also offer the flexibility to cater to various needs. With the rise of remote work and the increased time spent at home, ADUs can provide comfortable workspaces and additional living areas. Cities like Los Angeles are easing restrictions on land use, making ADUs a creative and affordable housing option for multigenerational living.
As we look ahead to 2025, ADUs are expected to play a significant role in urban and suburban living, offering a blend of functionality, design opportunities, and value enhancement for homeowners.
Ability to focus.” ADU Building Options
Written by Chris Reebals
Some homeowners opt to enlist the expertise of a professional to construct their Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) from the ground up, ensuring that their layout is architecturally sound. “The standalone unit should seamlessly blend with the primary residential structure in both form and function,” Reebals emphasizes. However, there exist numerous prefabricated alternatives in the market that can deliver a similar impact at a more affordable price point.
According to Ballard, with a solid foundation and electrical connections provided by a typical contractor, one might incur costs ranging from $40,000 to $150,000 for an ADU with a plethora of design choices. These compact yet functional units offer versatility and convenience.
Whether you opt for a custom-built ADU or go for a prefabricated solution, it is imperative to be well-versed in your locality’s zoning laws. “In many areas, a dwelling unit is classified as a single ‘household,’ rather than accommodating multiple tenants,” notes Jeremy Tetreault of Four Brothers Design + Build in Washington, D.C. “For instance, if your ADU comprises two bedrooms, it is typically prohibited to have two unrelated individuals residing there. While building codes address this issue broadly, local ordinances often delineate specific requirements, varying by city.”
Once the regulatory fine print is thoroughly understood, it is time to embark on the journey of creating your ideal ADU. To aid in your search, we have curated a selection of units that can be purchased conveniently from the comfort of your home. As demonstrated below, off-the-shelf options need not equate to a compromise in style:
– Double Door Storage Shed – Priced at $1840.94 on amazon.com
– Colonial Greenhouse – Available for $22499.99 on wayfair.com
– Palisade Storage Shed – Listed at $2641.34 on wayfair.com
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