Have you ever wished for a little extra space at home? Maybe you need room for aging parents, a dedicated home office, or even a rental opportunity? Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) are making a comeback, and they might be the perfect solution for you!
What is an ADU?
An ADU is a secondary, smaller living space on the same property as a single-family home. You’ve probably heard them called in-law suites, guest houses, or carriage houses. These spaces can be attached to your home, built over a garage, or even converted from a basement. With many towns relaxing zoning restrictions, homeowners now have more opportunities to build ADUs than ever before.
Why Are ADUs So Popular?
ADUs offer incredible flexibility. Homeowners are using them in a variety of ways, including:
✅ Aging in Place – Empty nesters who love their neighborhood can downsize into an ADU and rent out the main home for additional income.
✅ Multi-Generational Living – Whether it’s housing an aging parent or providing a private space for a young adult, ADUs make family living more comfortable.
✅ Rental Income – With rising housing costs, renting out an ADU can be a great way to offset mortgage expenses.
✅ Home Office or Studio – Need a quiet space to work from home? An ADU creates separation without a commute.
✅ Guest House – Provide visitors with privacy while keeping them close.
Is an ADU Right for You?
If you’ve been thinking about ways to add value to your home and enhance your living situation, an ADU could be a fantastic investment. Many communities now offer streamlined permitting processes, making it easier to get started.
What are the Massachusetts Guidelines?
- Maintain a separate entrance, either directly from the outside or through an entry hall or corridor shared with the principal dwelling sufficient to meet the requirements of the state building code for safe egress;
- Be either no larger than half the gross floor area of the principal dwelling or 900 square feet, whichever is smaller;
- Meet local municipal restrictions, including, but not limited to, additional size restrictions and/or restrictions or prohibitions on short-term rental if the city or town decides to impose these
Curious about what’s possible? Contact us today to explore your options and see how an ADU could benefit your home and lifestyle!
