Creating a backyard you love doesn’t need to be expensive or impossible! In fact, you can make your backyard more beautiful and functional with the addition of an ADU—an Accessory Dwelling Unit, also known as an in-law suite, granny flat, or guest house. This guide will help you choose the best location for your ADU and walk you through what permits are required and how to comply with local building codes.
Benefits of having an ADU
An Accessory Dwelling Unit or ADU is a great way to increase your property’s value, and add green space and infill, without adding another structure. With a little extra room on your lot, you can attract renters or even create an Airbnb that can help you afford more of your other goals! And if you don’t have any extra land, there are still ways to make use of unused spaces in your home.
Reasons to build a duplex in your backyard
Duplexes are great alternatives to traditional single-family homes. They can take many forms, but essentially a duplex is simply two units living under one roof and sharing one driveway. Instead of having two yards, you can have a yard that’s twice as big! In addition, you’ll have lower maintenance and upkeep costs by sharing walls between units. Plus, there’s always someone else around if you need help with anything—it could be your roommate or it could be another family member who lives in their own unit. If you want to live in a home without owning all of it, consider building a duplex in your backyard. It will give you some extra space while still allowing you to keep up with landscaping and other outdoor work.
Small ways you can add style
There are plenty of ways you can add some style to your backyard without any significant work. A small, seasonal canopy, for example, can do wonders for creating a more relaxing outdoor atmosphere and making it easier to hang out when it’s too hot or cold outside. The best part is that these types of small but impactful changes don’t require a huge investment—so you can easily update your backyard style as needed throughout spring, summer, fall, and winter. And even if you live in an apartment, there are still lots of stylish things you can do (like adding a few plants or building a DIY coffee table) to make your space feel like home.
Considering adding an ADU in your backyard?
Check if you property is eligible for an ADU using The ADU Guide free Property Report!
