What’s an Accessory Dwelling Unit?
The cost of housing has skyrocketed across the United States. As a response, some states and localities have legalized accessory dwelling units in hopes of expanding the supply of affordable housing. But what are ADUs?
Affordable ADUs: How It’s Being Done
In the face of limited financing options, local governments, nonprofits, and social enterprises are experimenting with ways to make affordable ADUs a reality.
Going Statewide to Boost ADU Development
ADUs are typically regulated at the local level, but advocates argue statewide legislation is what’s actually needed to get to scale. California has been aggressively leading the way.
Why ADUs Can’t Solve the Nation’s Housing Crisis
While accessory dwelling units are a valuable tool to add more rental housing, they also come with limitations.
How Financing Barriers Keep ADUs Expensive
Most homeowners have neither the capital nor the credit to self-finance an ADU or get a loan to build one. If financing doesn’t change, ADUs will stay niche and expensive.