Estimated read time: 4-5 minutes
Change can be a very good thing — especially when it comes to your home. Sometimes, all it takes to solve financial challenges or breathe new life into your property is an additional dwelling.
Accessory dwelling units (ADUs) are becoming increasingly popular among homeowners for their versatility and the many benefits they offer.
Though ADUs weren't always allowed in Utah, the state legislature passed a law in 2021 that made them legal. And that's a great thing — because once you see the potential of an ADU, you'll wonder why you didn't consider one sooner.
Here's a glimpse into the exciting possibilities that await when you add an ADU to your property.
An ADU can help you earn rental income
If you're like most people, chances are pretty good that you wouldn't mind earning a little extra cash month-to-month. Adding an ADU to your property can be a great way to make that happen.
According to AARP, renting out your ADU can help cover your mortgage or take care of other monthly expenses. For older, retired couples on a fixed income, this can be especially helpful, providing a steady stream of income and giving you some extra breathing room in your budget.
An ADU is a great way to support other family members
Having an ADU on your property could also be an act of altruism.
Even if you don't need an ADU to help you save some money each month, it could come in handy for other family members who might need something more affordable.
If you have older parents or a niece in college who's struggling to find housing, building an ADU could be one of the most thoughtful and generous things you can do.
It's a great way to support your loved ones while keeping them close by, all without compromising their independence.
An ADU allows you to downsize without leaving home
As couples age and children move out, the idea of downsizing often starts to make sense. But letting go of the home where you reared your family and made so many memories can be tough.
That's where an ADU can be the perfect solution. Instead of moving away, you can stay on your property while renting out the main part of your home to family or friends, giving you the space you need while holding on to the home you love.
ADUs provide a more affordable housing option
If you were hoping Utah's housing market would cool off this year, you might be in for a surprise. Zillow recently predicted the state will have the 10th hottest housing market in the nation in 2025.
That's where a smaller dwelling like an ADU comes in handy — not only for you but also for renters looking for a more affordable place to live.
You could be the perfect solution for a newlywed couple struggling to find a home, especially if they're looking for the rare gem of a small unit nestled in a well-established neighborhood.
ADUs are easier to maintain
If you're tired of the never-ending upkeep and maintenance that comes with a larger home, an ADU could feel like a breath of fresh air.
With less square footage to manage, there's less to clean and maintain, allowing you to spend less time on chores and more time enjoying the things you love.
ADUs are neighborhood-friendly
Anytime you make a major change to your property, it's not just about you — it affects the entire neighborhood.
You don't want to be the person who builds an addition that blocks a great view for your neighbor, creating unnecessary tension.
One perk of an ADU is that it's typically small enough to have minimal impact on your surroundings, which your neighbors will likely appreciate.
Plus, AARP points out that ADUs often receive more community support than other housing types, simply because they're much more agreeable than something like a large apartment building.
An ADU may increase your property value
When you consider all the benefits listed above — along with many others not mentioned — it's clear how an ADU could become a valuable asset if you ever decide to sell. Many buyers are attracted to the idea of having a separate dwelling on their property, making an ADU a strong selling point.
In fact, a study from the National Association of Realtors found that an ADU can increase your home's value by as much as 35%.
Get your ADU started with Backyard Office Utah
Once you've decided an accessory dwelling unit is the right addition to your property, let Backyard Office Utah help bring your vision to life.
Don't be fooled by their name — while they're known for creating beautiful, custom-built backyard offices, they've expanded into building ADUs as well.
Check out their website to get a sense of their craftsmanship and the quality of work they offer.
When you're ready to get started, reach out to their team at 385-296-6744 or email info@backyardofficeutah.com to learn more.
