In Charlotte, NC, the rise of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) is revolutionizing your perceptions of space and accommodation, and Hopedale Builders is leading the charge. These versatile structures enhance property values and offer flexible living arrangements in Charlotte's most beautiful backyards.
Here, we'll discuss what an ADU is and is not, what your neighbors in South Charlotte use these structures for, and factors to consider when planning a custom ADU as an addition to your home.
What Is an Accessory Dwelling Unit in Charlotte, NC?
Defining ADUs
You might have heard about the rise in popularity of ADUs in Charlotte, but what is an ADU technically? In Charlotte, North Carolina, an ADU is a detached structure with an outlet for a range or dryer requiring more setback from the property line than the same structure without a range or dryer.
In South Charlotte, detached structures that are technically ADUs are rare because backyards here are typically too small to allow for the correct distance from the property line to the new structure. However, auxiliary housing units that are not officially ADUs but are still guest house additions and mother-in-law suites are not only common in Mecklenburg County but something Hopedale Builders builds regularly! If you've heard that ADUs are difficult to build in South Charlotte, the gap between the denotative and connotative definitions may be the reason.
The Popularity of ADUs in Charlotte, NC
Now that we have defined what ADU officially is (and what it is not), let's get down to business! Why are ancillary structures so popular in South Charlotte, and what can they be used for? In our experience, there are several common reasons that savvy homeowners in Charlotte choose to build a structure like a guest house addition. The pros of having an ADU in Charlotte (or something akin to it) extend beyond mere architectural trendiness; they serve a crucial role in addressing the diverse housing needs and lifestyles of Charlotte’s population.
Aging Parents
Often, our clients begin to look into accessory dwelling units because they're looking for a place for their aging parents. ADUs for seniors offer the opportunity to live near family in a supportive yet independent setting, fostering a sense of community and safety. Whether you opt for an official ADU or another type of detached structure as a mother-in-law suite depends on what your property size can support.
Teen or Adult Children
A backyard dwelling unit provides the space and privacy many older teens or college students want while providing the convenience and affordability of living at home. Living in an official ADU (or what is colloquially known as one) provides a great deal of autonomy for household members looking for independence while increasing the value of your home.
Office Space, Home Gyms, & Recreation
A mother-in-law suite doesn't have to house a mother-in-law. You might discover that one of the benefits of an ADU (again - official or colloquial) is a separate space for a home office or hobbies, including working out. If your home is ideal in every way, aside from needing a defined space for your home office or gym, a detached structure or official ADU may be for you.
Factors to Consider When Investing in an ADU
A few factors make an ADU or detached structure a good investment, not just a comfort choice. These factors hinge on your needs and desires, so weigh them according to your lifestyle. We always encourage you to work with your builder to ascertain the balance of factors best for your home.
Cost
Investing in an ADU adds to your home's value and lifestyle. If your property has the space to build an ADU according to Mecklenburg County code, the cost of your accessory dwelling unit is likely worthwhile. If your property can't support an official ADU, using a different sort of detached dwelling unit is still an excellent investment!
Size
Many of our clients have asked us the best size for an ADU. We suggest building an auxiliary housing unit that is spacious enough to serve multiple purposes. Typical ADUs (or detached structures) range from 300 square feet to 1,000 square feet, depending on the intended use of the accessory dwelling unit.
Whether you opt for an in-law suite addition, a detached mother-in-law suite, or a guest house, understanding the distinction between what is officially an ADU and what is simply a detached structure is key when pondering backyard dwelling unit floor plans.
The Builder
Your builder can (quite literally) make or break your experience. Many experienced guest house builders will refer to any structure as an ADU and not educate their clients on terminology and requirements. To select the best team, look for a track record of successful builds, stellar reviews, and a portfolio that aligns with your aesthetic and functional needs. Prioritize professionals who are not only skilled in construction but are also knowledgeable about definitions, Charlotte’s zoning laws, and permit requirements.
Adding an ADU to Your Charlotte, NC Home
Your home is your haven, which can be a dynamic, changing place. Investing in an official ADU or a guest house addition allows your family and lifestyle to grow with your home. For many insightful homeowners in Charlotte, the cost of an accessory dwelling unit (official or unofficial) has been repaid in terms of flexibility, family dynamic improvement, and home value.
As Charlotte expands, your friends and neighbors will continue investing in detached structures, likely calling them ADUs. Why not get ahead of the curve, educate the neighbors, and build one of the best accessory units in the neighborhood using an adroit guest house builder with a history of beautiful work?
Charlotte's Premier ADU Builder
If you're ready to invest in your property, family, and future, Hopedale Builders will begin building an accessory dwelling unit that meets your needs and goals. Our experience in Charlotte and our stellar reputation mean that you will be apprised of every step of the process, knowing that we have you covered. From zoning permits to discerning if an ADU or other detached structure is right for you, there isn't a step we are not familiar with.
Ready to chat about investing in an ADU or other detached structure? Contact Hopedale Builders today!
