What Are Accessory Dwelling Units and How Can They Benefit You?

Maybe you’re in the market for a home and are having a hard time finding the right one that fits your budget. Or perhaps you’re already a homeowner in need of extra income or a place for loved ones. Whether as a potential homebuyer or a homeowner with changing needs, accessory dwelling units, or ADUs for short, may be able to help you reach your goals.

What Is an ADU?

As AARP says:

“An ADU is a small residence that shares a single-family lot with a larger, primary dwelling.”

“An ADU is an independent, self-contained living space with a kitchen or kitchenette, bathroom and sleeping area.”

“An ADU can be located within, attached to, or detached from the main residence. It can be created out of an existing structure (such as a garage) or built anew.”

If you’re thinking about whether an ADU makes sense for you as a buyer or a homeowner, here’s some useful information and benefits that ADUs can provide. Keep in mind, that regulations for ADUs vary based on where you live, so lean on a local real estate professional for more information.  

The Benefits of ADUs

Freddie Mac and the AARP identify some of the best features of ADUs for both buyers and homeowners:

• Living Close by, But Still Separate: ADUs allow loved ones to live together while having separate spaces. That means you can enjoy each other’s company and help each other out with things like childcare, but also have privacy when needed. If this appeals to you, you may want to consider buying a home with an ADU or adding an ADU onto your house. According to Freddie Mac:

“Having an accessory dwelling unit on an existing property has become a popular way for homeowners to offer independent living space to family members.”

• Aging in Place: Similarly, ADUs allow older people to be close to loved ones who can help them if they need it as they age. It gives them the best of both worlds – independence and support from loved ones. For example, if your parents are getting older and you want them nearby, you may want to buy a home with an ADU or build one onto your existing house.

• Affordable To Build: Since ADUs are often on the smaller side, they’re typically less expensive to build than larger, standalone homes. Building one can also increase your property’s value.

• Generating Additional Income: If you own a home with an ADU or if you build an ADU on your land, it can help generate rental income you could use toward your own mortgage payments. It’s worth noting that because an ADU exists on a single-family lot as a secondary dwelling, it typically cannot be sold separately from the primary residence. But that’s changing in some states. Work with a professional to understand your options. 

These are a few of the reasons why many people who benefit from ADUs think they’re a good idea. As Scott Wild, SVP of Consulting at John Burns Research, says:

“It’s gone from a small niche in the market to really a much more impactful part of new housing.”

If you're ready to explore the possibilities of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) in the beautiful Telluride area, a knowledgeable real estate expert can be your guiding light. Anne-Britt Ostlund, an experienced realtor at Mountain Rose Realty, understands the nuances of Telluride real estate, including ADUs and their potential benefits. Whether you're considering Telluride homes for sale with ADU potential or seeking to understand local housing regulations, Anne-Britt can provide the insights and guidance you need. Reach out to Anne-Britt at Mountain Rose Realty to discover how ADUs can enrich your homeownership journey in Telluride, Colorado.

As you consider the numerous benefits and possibilities that Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) offer, navigating the intricacies of local regulations and finding the right property can significantly impact your journey towards a well-suited dwelling.

For expert guidance on ADUs and Telluride real estate, Mountain Rose Realty, under the adept guidance of Anne-Britt Ostlund, stands ready to assist. Anne-Britt’s profound understanding of Telluride's real estate landscape, including the availability of homes for sale in Telluride, CO, with ADU potential, can be a crucial resource in your quest for the perfect property.

Your dream of homeownership, especially in a place as stunning as Telluride, can be enhanced by the invaluable insights and professional support provided by Anne-Britt Ostlund and the team at Mountain Rose Realty. Embrace the potential of ADUs and discover the perfect dwelling tailored to your needs with the expertise and personalized service offered by Anne-Britt and Mountain Rose Realty.