Builds on the popularity of tiny house books, but different because the houses aren't necessarily tiny but typically small and fill a similar gap in the market for affordable housing, rental opportunities, and multigenerational living Timely because in the past few years many municipalities across the US have rezoned to allow them Target readers are architects, interior designers, and consumers in various demographics: young adults who need inexpensive housing solutions, and retirees who want to downsize or create passive rental income. https://www.bhg.com/home-improvement/remodeling/additions/adu-accessory-dwelling-units/ August 2021 BHG--excerpts below In the past few decades, cities across the country began updating local ordinances to allow for this housing. Now, ADUs are on the rise. Between 2009 and 2019, the number of first-time listings of ADUs grew on average 8.6% year-over-year, according toa 2020 studyreleased by Freddie Mac. And the trend isn't slowing anytime soon.

"I thinkCOVID-19and the sharp uptick in housing prices have only poured fuel on the fire," says Caitlin Bigelow, CEO and co-founder ofMaxable, a leading source for ADU advocacy and resources. "We're expecting to see ADUs surge in popularity." A number of factors are converging to make these small homes a big attraction. For starters, ADUs increase housing diversity in already-developed residential neighborhoods, often adding much-needed affordable housing solutions. ADUs are also a solution for homeownerswho want to downsizewhile staying in their neighborhood; they can design an ADU to meet their needs, then rent out the primary residence. ADUs are also popular among homeowners because theyadd property valuewhile creating an opportunity for passive income. Another factor contributing to the popularity of ADUs is the increasing interest inmulti-generational livingand the ability to accommodate ill and aging family members. A2018 survey by AARPfound that adults over 50 are interested in ADUs largely for friends or relatives who need care or who are looking for a new place to live.

Younger families pursue ADUs as a possible place for aging relatives, either as a permanent dwelling or a comfortable place to accommodate extended visits. ADUs are also being considered for caregiver dwellings.