Articles
Expert guides and resources to help you understand ADUs and make informed decisions.
ADU Design Trends 2025
January 15, 2025
Top ADU trends for 2025: sustainable materials, smart home tech, indoor-outdoor living, and Scandinavian minimalism. Here's what homeowners are actually building.
ADU Size Guide: From Studio to 2-Bedroom
January 15, 2025
Studio ADUs (300-500 sq ft) cost $120-180K and work for singles. One-bedroom ADUs (500-700 sq ft) cost $180-250K and suit most needs. Two-bedroom ADUs (800-1200 sq ft) cost $250-350K+.
Detached vs Attached ADUs: Pros and Cons
January 15, 2025
Detached ADUs offer more privacy and rental appeal but cost more. Attached ADUs are cheaper and simpler but feel less independent. Here's how to choose for your property.
Modular vs Stick-Built ADUs: Which is Right for You?
January 15, 2025
Both modular and stick-built ADUs create beautiful, livable spaces. Modular ADUs install in weeks for $150-250K, while stick-built offers more customization for $180-300K.
Financing Your ADU: Loans, HELOCs, and Options
January 15, 2025
Most homeowners finance ADUs with home equity loans, HELOCs, or cash-out refinancing. Here's how to choose the right option and what lenders actually approve.
ADU Rental Income: What to Expect
January 15, 2025
ADU rental income typically adds $1,200-$3,000/month to your household income. Here's what homeowners are actually earning and how they make the numbers work.
ADU Tax Benefits and Deductions
January 15, 2025
ADU owners can deduct mortgage interest, property taxes, depreciation, and expenses - often reducing taxable rental income by 30-50%. Here's what you can actually claim.
ADU Insurance: What You Need to Know
January 15, 2025
Adding an ADU increases homeowners insurance by $300-$1,000/year. Rental ADUs need landlord liability coverage. Here's what coverage you actually need and what it costs.
Permits and Approvals: The ADU Process Timeline
January 15, 2025
ADU permits typically take 2-6 months depending on your city. Most homeowners get approved on the first or second submission. Here's the realistic timeline and what actually happens.
ADU Resale Value: Impact on Home Value
January 15, 2025
ADUs typically add $100,000-$200,000 to home value - often matching or exceeding build costs. Here's what appraisers, realtors, and buyers actually value in ADU properties.
ADU Utilities: Separate or Shared Meters?
January 15, 2025
Most ADUs share meters with main house, though some cities allow separate metering. Here's what works for rentals vs family use, and how to handle utility costs fairly.