Accessory dwelling units have been around for decades, but they’ve been enjoying a renaissance in recent years.
Millennials are partly responsible for the new rise in dwelling units, as the cost of living becomes tighter in metropolitan areas. Millennial homeowners are renting out ADUs for extra income, giving fellow millennials more affordable rental options.
Baby boomers are also using these units to house their aging parents. Accessory dwelling units can transform multi-generational households into more spacious and livable homes.
The benefits don’t end there. Discover more ways to use ADUs and how to get one of your own!
Build a Guest Cottage for Family
If you frequently host guests, you may want to consider building a quaint guest cottage. Cottage ADUs are adorable and make excellent alternatives to guest rooms. Your guests also enjoy more space, accommodations, and privacy.
Unlike a guest room, an accessory dwelling unit for guests can include a kitchen, bathroom, and a separate common area. Guests also have access to the backyard. Attached guest cottages are ideal for visiting family and wedding guests.
Mini Cottages for Tourists
As you can imagine, guest ADUs have skyrocketed in popularity since the rise of Airbnb. A guest cottage has more selling points than just a guest room. They also provide peace, quiet, and privacy that many tourists crave.
If you live in a popular tourist destination, consider building an accessory dwelling unit to earn extra income during peak seasons.
Do you live in a city that has the following events?
- Major music festivals
- Industry conferences
- Comic-Con
- South By Southwest (SXSW)
- The Olympics
- World series
- NBA finals
- Presidential inaugurations
If your area gets a lot of tourist traffic, consider building an attached ADU. A prime location could fetch an even higher price!
Why Seniors Love Accessory Dwelling Units
As more Gen Xers and Boomers start caring for their aging parents, expect a significant rise in accessory dwelling units. These units aren’t just convenient for caretakers, but seniors prefer them as well.
For example, a granny pod from Acton ADU has all the accommodations as a regular house, but without the hassle. Seniors don’t have to worry about stairs, and everything is within easy walking distance. The best part is that ADUs give seniors a sense of independence.
Freedom for College Students
Living on campus isn’t cheap. Living on campus at an out-of-state college is even more expensive. An accessory dwelling unit is a more affordable option for your college-bound teen.
One of the biggest concerns for college teens is freedom. A separate ADU is less stifling than a bedroom. Furthermore, it can help students focus on their coursework.
If you live in a bustling college town, consider renting out your ADU to college students in need of affordable housing. It’s also a good option for foreign exchange students.
What Could You Do with an ADU?
Think about the possibilities of accessory dwelling units. How could one help you in the future?
The only way to know is to get one for yourself. Find a reputable ADU builder in your area, and check back often for more home improvement tips you need in your life.
