Why build an ADU
Accessory dwelling units help solve the housing crisis, keep families together, and create real income — all from the property you already own.
Housing crisis
The U.S. is short millions of housing units. Cities are overcrowded, rents keep climbing, and families are being priced out of the places they grew up. ADUs add housing to existing neighborhoods without sprawl, displacement, or massive new developments.
Family
A backyard unit for aging parents. A space for adult children saving for their first home. A guest house that becomes permanent when life changes. ADUs let families stay together on their own terms — without sacrificing independence or privacy.
Income
In California and a growing number of states, homeowners can legally rent ADUs for supplemental income. A well-built unit can generate $1,500–$3,500/month depending on location — income that helps offset mortgage costs, fund retirement, or build generational wealth.
Legal clarity
California has passed landmark legislation (AB 68, SB 9, AB 1033) making ADUs easier to build than ever — reduced setbacks, streamlined permitting, and the ability to sell ADUs as condos. Oregon, Washington, and other states are following. The legal barriers that blocked homeowners for decades are falling fast.
Sustainability
ADUs add housing within existing infrastructure — no new roads, no new utilities, no new commutes. They're among the most sustainable forms of new housing: smaller footprints, lower embodied carbon, and they help neighborhoods grow without losing their character.
Investment
Unlike most home improvements, an ADU can generate income from day one. With average construction costs of $150K–$400K and rental income potential of $2,000+/month, the math often works — especially as property values increase with the added unit.
Strata helps you go from idea to estimate in one conversation. Describe your project and get real numbers backed by real data.