With the recent zoning changes, many Madison residents are likely considering adding an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) to their property. If you count yourself among that group, you might be wondering just what the best use that space could be. The good news is ADUs are incredibly versatile and can serve a variety of purposes, from providing extra living space to generating extra income for you. Let’s dive into some of the top uses for an ADU and discuss how it could improve the functionality and value of your property.
Guest Space
One of the most popular uses of an ADU is as a private space for guests. Whether you have family members who visit or friends who need a place to stay, an ADU can offer them a cozy, separate area to enjoy while visiting. With a self-contained living space, including a kitchen and bathroom, your guests will feel right at home without having to crowd the main house.
Space for Older or Adult Children
As the years go on, your family living situation can change and evolve. As your children grow older, they might want a space of their own before they move out. Or perhaps an elderly parent will move in with you. An ADU can be the perfect solution, offering a private living area for your kids or aging parents while keeping them close to home. Whether it’s for a temporary situation or a long-term arrangement, an ADU gives your family members independence and space while still being part of the family dynamic.
Rental Income Potential
If you’re looking for ways to earn some extra income, renting out an ADU can be a great option. Many homeowners turn their ADUs into long-term rental units or even short-term vacation rentals. With the growing demand for rental properties, having an ADU can offer you a reliable source of income, which can help pay off your mortgage or fund other projects around your property. Plus having a separate space for tenants means that both you and your renters can enjoy privacy.
Additional Storage Space
While “dwelling” is a key aspect of an ADU, you can use the space for other purposes if need be. Let’s say, you have a relative move out of the unit, or you don’t feel like renting it out anymore. Or maybe you use it to house guests a few times a year, but it’s empty most of the year. In those cases, you have a place to store seasonal items, equipment or even hobby gear. So, if you need a workshop for DIY projects or extra space for sporting equipment, an ADU provides a dry, secure space to keep your belongings organized.
So, if an ADU sounds like a good fit for your property, we’d love to help you make it a reality. At Westring Construction, we’re one of the few firms in Madison that has experience constructing ADUs. We’ll work to ensure we meet your unique needs and enhance your property’s value. Give us a call at 608-441-5435 today to get started!