What Is an ADU? In-Law Suite Basics for New England Homeowners
ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) is a newer term, but the idea behind it isn’t new at all. Heard of an in-law apartment? Then you already get it. If you’re building a new home you plan to be in for years to come, working in an ADU could be a smart call for a bunch of reasons. Let’s start with the basics.
What is an ADU?
ADU is a term used to describe a second separate housing unit on the same lot as the primary dwelling. To be an ADU, this separate residence should be self-contained, meaning it has its own sleeping area, kitchen, and bathroom. An ADU can be part of the main structure, usually with its own dedicated entrance, or it can be a small standalone structure typically located in the backyard. In New Hampshire, it would typically be connected to the main house.
Why might I consider an ADU for my next home?
Even if you don’t have an in-law waiting in the wings, an ADU may be a smart move for your new home.
It gives you flexibility in living arrangements, offering additional privacy and space for guests, a potential live-in relative or caregiver, or an adult child who may still be living at home but with their own apartment-like space.
An ADU can serve a range of purposes, such as office space, guest rooms, or just the flexibility to shift how you use your home over time. Rather than trying to make a single extra bedroom function for work, out-of-town friends or family, and other needs, you would have a dedicated space complete with a kitchen and bathroom to serve multiple purposes. It really is up to you.
Financially, an ADU may also make sense. Some lenders will consider the potential rental value of an ADU in financing. That rental income can be a nice contributor to cash flow while you own the home, and having an ADU can enhance the resale value of your home, making it attractive to a wide pool of buyers.
For those who live in an ADU, there are clear benefits, including a smaller footprint with lower utility costs and easier maintenance of the living space. It really is an economical way to add living space without additional land development.
Why build an in-law from the start?
If you’re leaning toward an ADU, new construction is the ideal time to make it happen. Adding an in-law suite to an existing home means working around what’s already there, rerouting plumbing, tapping into your current electrical, reworking sewer or septic, and squeezing a new layout into a footprint that wasn’t designed for it. That’s where the costs and issues pile up.
Starting from the ground up, none of that applies. The plumbing, electrical, HVAC, and sewer or septic can all be designed to accommodate the ADU from day one, rather than retrofitted later. The builder will take care of all permitting and building code requirements, and they know the in’s and out’s of the zoning laws. You’re building the space into the plan instead of forcing it into an existing one, which almost always means a smoother build, fewer compromises on design, and better value for what you spend. If an in-law suite is even a maybe for you, it’s far easier (and more cost-effective) to account for it now than to add it down the road.
What do I need to know before making a decision to build a home with an ADU?
There is a good deal to consider before constructing a home with an ADU. It’s critical to understand the state and local zoning ordinances governing ADUs before you break ground. One way is to work with a well-established local builder that has experience with ADUs and the laws governing them. Location and home design are key. Some floor plans such as the Wyndham model in our Vantage Point Community have the option for an attached ADU depending on the lot, and our team can work with you to find a floor plan and solution that works for your needs and style.
If you’re interested in knowing more about the new build process and options, including adding an ADU, we’re here to help. Let’s connect.