If you’ve been thinking about converting your garage or building an in-law suite, you might have heard the term “ADU”. But what is an ADU, exactly? 

An accessory dwelling unit (ADU) is a secondary housing structure located on the same property as a single-family home. ADUs can function as separate living spaces complete with their own kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping areas. In short: imagine your home, but with a custom backyard cottage accompanying it. 

However, there’s no “right” way to use an ADU. An ADU can serve as extra garage space, a personal art studio, a space for your teenagers to sleep over in, your very own backyard Airbnb and more. These versatile housing solutions can double your occupancy and come with financial benefits, too. Let’s dive deeper into the wonderful world of ADUs: 

What Types of ADUs Are There?

ADUs come in various forms, catering to different space constraints and homeowner preferences. The three main types are:

• Detached ADUs: A detached ADU is a standalone structure separate from the main house, offering the most privacy and flexibility. This category includes tiny homes, since they’re functionally backyard cottages. 
• Attached ADUs: Like their name implies, attached ADUs still share at least one wall with the primary residence, providing added space while staying connected to the main home. You might like this option for accessibility reasons, since it can be simpler to extend utilities and electrical wiring with an attached ADU. 
• Garage Conversions: It’s possible to transform an existing garage into a livable unit, considered one of the most cost-effective ADU options. You can either build on top of your garage to add square footage, or entirely rework the garage to be its own unit. 

Are ADUs Available in Atlanta?

Yes, ADUs can be built in Atlanta. There are a few limitations for them, of course: Atlanta ADUs must not exceed 750 square feet in size and shouldn’t claim more than 55% of a lot’s coverage, according to a local law firm. 

As for where you can build an ADU: Atlanta’s single-family residential (zone R-5) and two-family residential homes (zones R-4, R-4A) are eligible at a base level for ADUs, but your neighborhood may have further requirements that prevent ADU builds. 

We recommend contacting an experienced ADU builder to determine if your property is eligible. Local laws can change ADU availability, and even a homeowner’s association may have jurisdiction over where, how, and how large an ADU can be built. 

If you’re located in east Atlanta, contact our ADU experts to see if your zipcode allows for ADU building! Our team at SmartSpaces ADUs serves Brookhaven, Grayson, Tucker, and the surrounding neighborhoods with premier granny flats, backyard cottages, and converted garages.

What Are the Benefits of an ADU?

Beyond just the extra square footage, ADUs offer opportunities for you. Let’s dive in.

Flexible Living

ADUs offer a versatile solution for housing needs. Whether used as a guest suite, home office, or space for aging parents, ADUs provide an adaptable living arrangement that can evolve over time.

Increased Property Value

One of the most significant advantages of adding an ADU is the potential boost in property value. These units are seen as desirable amenities, making a home more attractive to prospective buyers and contributing to higher resale value.

Additional Income

ADUs can serve as rental properties, creating a steady income stream. Whether rented out short-term or long-term, these units can help homeowners offset mortgage costs and increase their overall financial stability. 

How Much Value Does an ADU Add to a Home?

The exact value an ADU adds to a property depends on various factors, including location, size, and quality of construction. On average, homes with ADUs can see an increase in value ranging from 20% up to 35%.  

In competitive real estate markets like Atlanta, this added value can translate into a significant return on investment for homeowners. As mentioned previously- you can also consider making your ADU a rental or Airbnb to garner a little extra cash on the side.

How to Get Started Building an ADU

To begin building an ADU, homeowners should start by:

1. Researching Local Regulations: Check zoning laws and permitting requirements specific to Atlanta or your local area. You may need to create a site plan and submit it to your city or county for approval. Partnering with a specialized ADU builder can help navigate this complex process; they can quickly tell you if your zip code allows for ADUs, and further narrow down to your exact address to determine if there are any other barriers in crafting an ADU on your property. 

Some land comes with setback requirements that may dictate a minimum distance between your new ADU and your home, property boundaries, or other buildings. Expect to conform to Georgia’s mandatory state codes for all construction, too, along with Atlanta-specific ones.

2. Setting a Budget: Establish a realistic budget that covers design, construction, and potential utility upgrades. You can work with your ADU builder to map out the ideal budget. The average cost of an ADU ranges from $150 to $300 in 2024, according to Angie’s List, so you’ll want to prepare for financing the venture. 

Some builders will offer guidance for financing your ADU, so be sure to explore your options!

3. Hiring Professionals: If you haven’t gotten a builder involved yet, you should by now. Work with experienced architects, contractors, and designers who specialize in ADU construction to ensure a seamless process. Examine your potential builder’s reviews, ask to view their previous work, and get to know their style. 

4. Planning the Design: Choose a design that complements your property and meets your intended use, whether for rental income or personal use. From a custom in-law suite to a kids’ playhouse, the sky is the limit with your ADU’s space. 

Not sure what types of floorplans might suit you? Explore an expert ADU builder’s floorplans for inspiration.. You can maximize the value and functionality of your property through the addition of an ADU.

Begin your Atlanta ADU journey with SmartSpaces ADUs

Ready to explore your ADU possibilities? If you’re based in Atlanta, SmartSpaces ADUs might be the ideal partner to bring your dream to life. Browse our range of available floor plans to get inspired, from studios to two-bedrooms. Contact us today for more information on making your ADU vision a reality.