Why Consider Building an Accessory Dwelling?

Options, options, options!  It's that simple.  Having an accessory dwelling unit on your property opens all sorts of options, including peace of mind and economic benefits as well.  Before we dive in further, the definition of an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) is  a small residence or living space that shares a single-family lot with a larger, primary dwelling.  An ADU may be attached or detached from the primary dwelling and is self-contained with its own kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping area.  

ADUs are becoming more and more popular as raw land becomes more expensive and harder to find.  Although the concept of ADUs may seem like a new idea, they have been around for decades.  Other names you may recognize is mother-in-law apartment, granny flat, or guest house to name a few.  Essentially, they are all the same, however ,building codes and zoning regulations often vary with different jurisdictions.  
 
If you have space on your property, an accessory dwelling unit may be the perfect solution to add flexibility to your lifestyle.  Here are a just a few options an ADU may offer:

• Rental income options (short or long-term)
• On-site office space 
• Age-friendly housing for immediate or extended family
• Backyard retreat (she shed, man cave, art, or music studio)
• The perfect sized dwelling for stay-at-home adult children 
• Eldercare or live-in-aid 
• Excellent resale benefits

If you are considering an accessory dwelling for your property, the first step is to check local zoning and planning regulations.  Once you decide to build, you'll wonder what took you so long!   These little treasures may be your answer to help position whatever may come your way.  If you need help determining if your site is a good fit for an ADU, we would love to help.  Please contact us at BauerCombs & Associates, Inc., and we'll walk you through step-by-step. 
 
About BauerCombs & Associates, Inc. - Landscape Architecture
BauerCombs is an award-winning landscape architecture firm specializing in site planning for the greater Seattle, Bellevue, and Eastside areas.  With our signature sensory design methods, we create captivating landscapes that bring life to outdoor spaces through the artistic balance of color and patterns, scent, touch, taste, and sound.  Our work has been published in several magazines and continues to grow in reputation for creating healthy outdoor environments for people and communities. 
 
Author: Susan Combs Bauer, Landscape Architect, Copyright © 2020 BauerCombs & Associates, Inc. www.bauercombs.com (425) 496-7772