Accessory Dwelling Units
Thinking About an ADU? Start Here.
Whether you're considering extra space for family, potential rental income, a private home office or added flexibility for the future, an ADU can open up new possibilities for your property. I'll help you understand where to start, what questions to ask and which professionals you may need along the way.
Ask Me About ADUsWhy Consider an ADU?
One Property. More Possibilities.
ADUs can serve very different purposes depending on your property, family, and long-term plans. Before deciding what to build, start by thinking about what you want the additional space to accomplish.
Multigenerational Living
Create private, nearby space for parents, adult children, extended family or caregivers while maintaining independence.
Potential Rental Income
An ADU may provide an opportunity for additional rental income, subject to local regulations, property conditions and market demand.
Flexible Living Space
Use the space as a guest suite, private office, studio or other flexible living area as your needs evolve.
Property & Resale Considerations
A thoughtfully planned ADU may influence how future buyers view the functionality and appeal of a property. The impact on value varies by property and market.
ADU Options
There's More Than One Way to Create an ADU
ADUs can take different forms depending on the existing property and local requirements. Understanding the options is a useful starting point before exploring feasibility.
Detached ADU
A separate structure located on the same property as the primary residence.
Attached ADU
Additional living space physically connected to the primary home.
Conversion ADU
Existing space such as a garage or other qualifying area converted into a separate dwelling.
Junior ADU
A smaller unit created within the existing footprint of a qualifying single-family residence, subject to applicable requirements.
Where Do I Start?
From Idea to Feasibility
Every property is different. Feasibility can depend on a range of factors that vary by site and jurisdiction. Before committing to a direction, it's worth understanding how these considerations apply to your specific property.
You don't need to figure all of this out alone. I can help you organize the questions, evaluate the real estate considerations and connect you with appropriate professionals when specialized expertise is needed.
Buying or Selling
ADUs Matter on Both Sides of a Real Estate Transaction
Buying a Home With an ADU
When evaluating a home with an ADU, look at how the space is currently being used, what documentation is available, whether applicable permits are in order, and how the ADU fits your goals. That might include rental income, multigenerational living, a home office, guest space, or simply more flexibility.
Selling a Home With an ADU
Presenting an ADU accurately helps buyers understand the value and versatility of the additional space. Reviewing its documentation, current use, and functionality also helps determine how it should be positioned as part of the overall property.
A Place to Start
Have an ADU Question? Ask Ruth.
You don't need to know which department to call, which professional you need or even whether your idea is realistic before reaching out. Start with the question. If specialized expertise is needed, I'll help connect you with the right resources so you can make an informed decision about your property.
ADU requirements vary by property and jurisdiction and may change over time. Information on this page is general and is not legal, tax, architectural, engineering, permitting or construction advice. Property owners should verify current requirements with the applicable local agencies and qualified professionals.