What do people use ADU's for?

According to Erik, the reasons people build ADU's and DADU's are diverse, though a few key purposes stand out. "In the past, ADU's were usually for mother-in-laws, or for older parents... living in that residence so they were closer to their children," he said. This remains a primary driver, as families seek to provide support for aging relatives while allowing them to maintain a degree of independence.

Another major reason is financial. ADU's can be a source of income, with homeowners renting out the unit to help cover their mortgage. Erik notes that this is a key motivator for many.

Beyond these two main uses, ADU's are increasingly being utilized for other purposes. Erik mentioned them being converted into "office space or a yoga studio or just an area where it's separate and detached from your living space." He added that having a dedicated workspace away from the main house can be a huge benefit for those who work from home. Finally, he highlighted their value for young adults, such as college graduates who need a place to live but don’t have the funds for their own apartment. "It's an opportunity to build something maybe for your college-aged, young adult kids to come home," he explained. The flexibility to accommodate various family members, from grandparents to adult children, makes ADU's a versatile solution for evolving household needs.