We know planning a home or ADU can bring up a lot of questions. Whether you’re wondering about timelines, permits, or how the process works, we’re here to help. Below, you’ll find answers to some of the most common questions we get from homeowners like you.
An ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit), is typically a smaller, independent residential unit located on the same lot as a primary home. ADUs come in various forms, including smaller detached homes, garage conversions, basement apartments, attached additions and many other options that provide separate living quarters.
ADUs have many benefits – both emotional and financial … Statistics show that multi gen families that live together – thrive together! ADUs can greatly increase your property’s value by adding private/seperate living space. If you use it to generate rental income, there may be tax advantages, such as depreciation and deductions for maintenance and utilities. (Always ask your CPA or tax preparer for your own specific situation) Beyond that, they can provide flexible living or guest spaces for family and friends, without the need to buy a second property or waste hard earned money on assisted living or retirement homes.
Many states including those we serve (currently Washington, Oregon and Arizona) have recently changed laws to allow more ADU development. Determining eligibility depends on your city or county’s zoning laws, lot size, and access to utilities. RG ProBuilders offers a complimentary pre-feasibility assessment to help determine whether your property qualifies.
Yes. All of our ADUs are built on site – actual new construction real estate! Whether you select a pre-designed plan from our Modern or Legacy series – or a fully custom design that is tailored to your unique needs or property if necessary – your home will be a high quality new construction home.
As part of our process RG ProBuilders in-house CAD design and permitting team manages the entire design, planning and permitting process from start to finish. This includes blueprints, applications, revisions, and communication with your specific jurisdiction.
The permitting phase for an ADU is typically somewhere between 4 to 8 weeks depending on your local jurisdiction and your particular property. Some cities are offering new “quicker issue” pilot programs, and RG has been a builder partner with several jurisdictions in helping develop ADU code and permitting programs.
Permit fees vary depending on your specific project and local jurisdiction. RG ProBuilders provides you with a estimated breakdown early on in the process of anticipated permit and preconstruction costs.
An ADU can usually be lived in by anyone, making them perfect for family members, guests, or even a rental! Keep in mind, local regulations vary: some jurisdictions require the property owner to live on-site either in the main home or the ADU, while others allow both units to be rented out independently.
Once permits are approved, construction typically takes 2 to 6 months depending on your design and site conditions. Total time from design to completion is typically 6-9 months.
Each jurisdiction has specific regulations that determine what size ADU you can build on your property. In most cases, detached ADUs are allowed up to between 800-1,200 square feet and detached ADUs can typically be 50 – 60% of the size of the primary home on the property. Checking into these restrictions (if any) and zoning, setbacks etc is one of the complimentary services RG offers up front!
Yes. Since ADUs must meet current building and energy codes, our ADUs include high-performance insulation, energy-efficient windows, and sealed construction that reduces drafts and heat loss. Many of the interior features include ductless HVAC systems, LED lighting and smart thermostats.
Our most popular / common sized ADU projects generally range from $180,000 to $240,000. We have budget options starting as low as $119k, and can customize and design to your hearts content (or as far as your budget allows!) We have something for everyone! Keep in mind – all of our homes are built on site – new construction real estate – NOT PreFab or “mobile” units. Therefore – they gain and retain value higher than other options!
We partner with several lenders who specialize in ADU construction and renovation loans. There are several ways to finance your ADU project, depending on your unique needs and financial situation. View our financing partners and resources.
The RG ProBuilders team is ready to help you EVERY step of the way. Reach out to us today. We’ll start making your life easier from the very first phone call.
Give us your address and we’ll pull the satellite imagery, check your lot against local ADU rules, and tell you straight — yes, no, or here’s what it would take. Free, no obligation, reviewed by a licensed builder.
We’ll tell you if it won’t work, too.
