Backyard ADUs -North Metro Atlanta: Maximize your Home Value & Create More Living Space

According to AARP and other surveys, the majority of Americans prefer to live in walkable neighborhoods that offer a mix of housing, transportation options and are close to jobs, schools, shopping, entertainment and parks. These preferences along with the rapid aging of Americans overall, the decrease in households with children and the national housing shortage will continue to rise the demand for smaller homes and affordable-quality housing.

Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) play a major role in serving a national housing need, and as a result, they have become increasingly popular as a flexible housing option for affordable residency, multi-generational and additional living space. However, understanding the zoning regulations, building codes and permitting process is crucial for a successful ADU project. At Ace Home Building & Construction, we help homeowners from start to finish to build beautiful, functional ADUs that deliver a cost-effective investment. Whether it's a backyard cottage, an in-law suite, a garage conversion, a studio apartment, a garage apartment, a guest house or a standalone tiny home, an ADU is a smart investment for your lifestyle and your family's future.

What is an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU)?

ADUs-- sometimes called backyard cottages, carriage homes, guest houses or garden/secondary suites --are small self-contained living spaces built on the same lot as your primary residence. They normally include a kitchen, bathroom, and living area, making it ideal for guests, family members, or college-age children as they are designed to provide complete living facilities for one or more persons. They are typically built as detached units, but they can also be attached to the main house.

The Benefits of ADUs

ADUs are growing in popularity as more people discover why they're so practical. In fact, a recent survey shows that 24% of real estate agents say an ADU, such as a mother-in-law house, is one of the most desired features home buyers are looking for right now.

The growing appeal makes sense. With rising costs all around you, an ADU can help supplement your income and ease some of the strain on your wallet. At Ace Home, we help you add one on. Here are some of their top benefits, according to AARP:

• Boost Your Property's Value, Functionality and Appeal: Adding an ADU is proven to increase home resale value. Buyers are drawn to flexible living arrangements, making your home stand out in a competitive market

• Living Close, But Still Separate: An ADU gives aging parents, college-age children, or extended family members their own private space --close to home but with full independence.

• Aging in Place: ADUs allow older people to be close to loved ones who can assist them if they need it as they age.

• Built-In Childcare: If your family's living in the ADU, they might be able to provide you with childcare, which can also be a big cost savings. Plus, it gives your kids more time with their grandparents and benefit from their company.

• Create a Private Home Office or Studio: Need a quiet place to work, create, or relax? Your ADU can serve as a dedicated workspace or personal retreat, steps away from your main home.

• Maximize Underused Space: Transform a seldom-used garage, attic, or backyard into valuable, functional living space without sacrificing your primary residence.

• Stay Flexible for the Future: Whether your needs change in five or fifteen years, your ADU adapts-- housing guests, elderly relatives who can use it as a retirement haven.

• Potential for Rental Income- only if allowed by your municipality: ADUs could provide an additional income source for your household and help with mortgage payments, other expenses or serve as a reliable source of income for retirement. If your municipality allows homeowners to use the ADU as a rental unit, a special rental license must be requested. Once the construction project is finished, the homeowner needs to take care of this part himself / herself. Ace Home is not responsible for the issuance of the rental license nor for the acceptance of the ADU as a rental unit.

  
  

In Georgia, ADUs must comply with building codes, safety standards, and zoning regulations-- which widely vary depending on the municipality. Some HOAs have separate rules related to architectural guidelines and occupancy limits. At Ace Home, we offer a thorough service from start to finish, such as permiting application and compliance, planning & assistance with the selection of a comforming and cost-effective design, management and execution of all phases of construction, material procurement and delivery, workforce management, project management, communication and inspection scheduling until construction is finished and a certificate of occupancy is issued by the municipality. If there are specific needs for the ADU, such as fully handicapped accessible, this must be communicated before selecting the floorplan design.

In the 2021 AARP Home and Community Preferences Survey, adults age 18 or older who would consider creating an ADU said they'd do so in order to:

• provide a home for a loved one in need of care (86%)

• provide housing for relatives or friends (86%)

• create a place for a caregiver to stay (74%)

• increase the value of their home (69%)

• feel safer by having someone living nearby (67%)

• earn extra income from renting to a tenant (63%)

Why Now is the Time to Build an ADU?

Since ADUs make use of the existing infrastructure and housing stock, they're also environmentally friendly and respectful of a neighborhood's pace and style. An increasing number of local governments are streamlining ADU regulations and offering incentives, making it easier and more affordable to build than ever before. With rising property values, there is no better time to invest. They are increasingly adapting their policies to support ADU development as a means to address housing shortages and provide affordable living options.

Build Your Dream ADU with Ace Home

We specialize in custom ADU design and construction from start to end. From permits to final finishes, we handle every detail so you can enjoy a beautifully-made new building. As a general contractor, we are licensed, fully insured and experts in these types of projects. So, you just need to let us do all the hard work for you.

Interested in an ADU?

Contact Us Today to start your ADU journey and discover how a backyard cottage or in-law suite can transform your home and life.

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