Washington Construction News staff writer
McMurray Builders, based in Lorton, VA, says it will start offering the construction of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), for homeowners. ADU’s are built on the property of existing homes, and are designed to be rented out by the homeowners or used as additional living space for family members, such as an aging parent.
“Our job as a construction company is to build what people need, McMurray Builders president Jason Brown said in a June 5 statement. “There is a critical need for more housing and our goal is for these accessible dwelling units to provide a place that feels like home.”
ADU’s are also designed to be an option for working professionals who need a place to live, or a family that is not able to purchase a home yet. These units are appealing to people who want to live in an urban area at an affordable price. A PropertyRadar blog cited research from the Terner Center for Housing Innovation at UC Berkeley, stating that renting an ADU can be up to 50% more affordable compared to renting a traditional apartment.
ADU’s are typically built separate from the main home on the property and can also be built over a garage if permitted. This housing option is also a great way for a homeowner to provide housing for extended family in need or an adult child that wants more space. In an era where many people are working hybrid or remote, ADU’s can also provide an option to have a home office.
Additionally, one of the benefits of ADU’s is their ability to bring in rental income for a homeowner. According to the National Association of Realtors, adding an ADU to a property can also increase the property value. Homes in large cities that had an ADU on their property were listed up to 35% higher than homes without an ADU.
