In the world of home remodeling and construction, ADUs are essentially small guest houses (typically 600 to 1200 square feet) and include a separate entrance, bathroom and a small kitchen or kitchenette. Granny Flats can be detached or attached to the main property. They are usually located in the front and are a great way to have a home for multiple generations or guests.
They are typically 600 - 1200 square feet and include a separate entrance, bathroom, and tiny kitchen.
Granny Flats can be detached or attached to the main house, and are typically found in the front of properties, but can also be located in the backyard. ADUs / Granny Flats are often referred to as mother-in-law-quarters, guest houses, or granny flats and can be a great way to make your home available to multiple generations.
While you’ll likely find casitas in higher value homes (a quick Zillow search reveals that homes with advertised casitas average well over 2 million dollars), anyone with space and budget should consider adding one. This is especially true in areas and price ranges where a guest house is expected. Areas like Rancho Santa Fe, Del Mar, Carmel Valley, Del Sur, Poway, Fairbanks Ranch, Carmel Canyon, and La Jolla Farms all feature real estate that is in high demand.
Which ADU / Granny Flat is Right for Me?
There are three main types of ADUs / Granny Flats to consider.
Detached, attached, and repurposed existing.
Detached ADU
• The typical ADU is built in this style, usually in the backyard.
• A separate, standalone building, detached ADUs cannot be physically connected to the main residence in any way.
• The maximum ADU size is not linked to the size of the main dwelling, allowing for more freedom in design.
• Detached ADUs offer the most privacy for everyone on the property.
• Existing buildings such as detached garages can be easily converted into detached ADU / Granny Flat.
Attached ADU
• An attached ADU is similar to building an addition to your home, as they are connected to the main residence.
• However, attached ADUs must be internally isolated from the main residence, with their own entrance, bathroom, and kitchen.
• The max size of attached ADUs is connected to the size of the primary dwelling. Attached ADUs cannot exceed 50 percent of the total floor area of the primary dwelling.
• Attached ADUs provide a moderate amount of privacy while still allowing easy access to and from both dwellings, which makes them a great idea for housing elderly parents or use it as a home office.
Convert Existing Structures to ADU
• Repurposed Existing ADUs convert a room or space within the primary residence into an independent living space.
• Converting your garage, attic, or basement are all options for Repurposed Existing ADUs.
• You cannot change the original floor plan of the space when converting into an ADU.
• Repurposed Existing ADUs / Granny Flats provide the least amount of privacy but are the most convenient to access and are usually the most affordable option for construction.
