How Much Does an Accessory Dwelling Unit Cost?

Do you have a tiny home and want to expand it? Or, maybe you’re looking to expand your current average-sized home? Did you know that a true tiny home is less than 500 square feet?

In this article, explore the answer to the question, how much does an accessory dwelling unit cost? Read on to discover the answer to this question and more about these units.

What Is an ADU?

An ADU (accessory dwelling unit) is a separate living area within a property. It can either be attached or detached from the main home.

While many can be considered tiny homes they’re not all considered tiny homes. In order to be considered a tiny home, it must have utility hookups and foundations.

How Much Is an ADU?

While accessory dwelling units are becoming popular now, the prices can vary. It’s tough to put an exact amount because they can vary based on the location, size, etc.

While some you can build for $20,000, others can be $400,000 or more. It also depends on the builder and what materials will be used. Also, will it be above your garage or an ADU conversion?

Services

Keep in mind that you’ll need to pay for the permits that are required as well. In some locations, the permit fees can cost about $20,000.

Saving Money

If you’re tight on money, you can work on the finishing touches of building an ADU yourself. Anything DIY you can do such as tile work, installing sinks, painting, etc.

Keep in mind that while you can find plenty of videos online, if you’re not an expert, it might not be as efficient as a professional’s work.

To cut down on costs, consider checking used store places for items such as sinks. Be careful if you decide to buy a used dishwasher or oven since they can have a limited warranty and might not last long.

ADU Prices

ADU expenses include different features such as permit fees, application fees, design, etc. Check into whether you’ll need liability insurance in the location you’re going to build in.

There will also be contractor fees for different workers such as electrical, plumbing, and construction fees. Construction materials will also be included as well.

Any additional appliances or furnishings you’ll want to add will wrack up fast too. Start to budget for these different items in advance so that there are no surprises.

Why Should I Build an ADU?

After taking a look at the cost, you might ask yourself, why should I build an ADU? First, it increases your property value.

Return on Investment

While building an ADU can be expensive, the return-on-investment you make might be worth it. For example, if you’re trying to sell your home but aren’t getting great offers, an ADU might help with that.

Private Accommodations

If you have friends or family visiting, they’ll have a private space to stay in. That means privacy for you and them.

An ADU can include a bedroom, kitchen, bathroom, and living area. It’s also a nice feature if you have parents or grandparents who live with you.

This will allow you and them to have your own privacy, time, and schedule. Then you can avoid a nursing home if you have the extra space for them.

Support

Each family has its own needs. If you have a loved one with special needs you can provide them with their own space, but have them close by.

Depending on the location, it might be less to build them an ADU than having to worry about finding them their own place. It also allows your loved one to have some privacy that they desire.

Grown Kids at Home

With the rising costs of homes and apartments across the country, many grown children live with their parents when they’re finished with college. While you love your children, you might want to have some space and privacy.

It can give them the independence and confidence that they need by having their own place. You can consider charging them low rent as well to get them used to paying rent each month.

Your Own Space

Do you dream of your own space to get away for a bit? While you love your pets, children, and spouse, it’s nice to get away and have your own space.

Whether it’s catching up on that favorite book or creating a masterpiece, you’ll have the space, privacy, and quiet to do so. It’s a great way to shut the door and be lost in thought with your art, science, or any hobby you enjoy. You can also design it to your liking whether that’s bookshelves all around, a cozy couch, etc.

Family Close By

It’s a great way to invite your parents or other loved ones to live right on the property. It’ll still allow you all to have your own separate space, but still, be close enough that you can catch up whenever you’d like. It’s also a great way to provide your loved ones an affordable place to stay.

This will allow you both to keep your routines and space that you have before. You won’t have to worry about encroaching on each others’ space.

How Much Does an Accessory Dwelling Unit Cost?

Now that you’ve explored the answer to the question, how much does an accessory dwelling unit cost, you should have a better idea of what to expect. Would you like to read more lifestyle content? For everything from lifestyle to home improvement, check out our other articles today.

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