We talk a lot about smart ways to save money when building an accessory dwelling unit (ADU). When you’re dealing with a six-figure price tag, who wouldn’t want to save some bucks? But, there are also upgrades that can significantly enhance both the value and functionality of your ADU. While some upgrades may come with a higher upfront cost, they offer long-term benefits, improve your living experience, and boost your property’s value.
Based on what we’ve heard from our clients, here are the top ten upgrades that justify the extra splurge.
#1. Landscaping and Hardscaping
Too often, homeowners get so hung up on the interior of the ADU and they quickly neglect the exterior, but what we’ve always said here at Maxable is that curb appeal is just as important as the inside. Especially if you plan on renting out your ADU, you’ll want every angle to make a strong first impression.
And it’s not all about looking nice either. Hardscaping a private path to your ADU is going to be crucial for both functionality and privacy. This dedicated walkway ensures that tenants or guests have their own clear, unobstructed route to the unit, while also providing a sense of separation from the main house.
Let’s not forget about outdoor living either. If you have the space, creating a small courtyard that’s solely for the ADU is going to make a huge difference in quality of life for the tenant.
#2: Double-Paned Windows
Photo by American Window Company
Double-paned windows are an investment that pays off in more ways than one. Not only do they offer superior insulation, helping to regulate the temperature inside your ADU year-round, but they also enhance energy efficiency by reducing heating and cooling costs. Double-paned windows also provide better soundproofing, making them perfect for ADUs located near busy streets or in noisy environments. This upgrade is a win-win, increasing both comfort and value while keeping your energy bills in check.
#3: Premium Soundproofing
In an ADU, where space is often limited, privacy is key. Premium soundproofing can transform your living experience by reducing noise transmission between walls. Adding soundproof insulation, acoustic panels, and noise-reducing doors not only enhances comfort but also ensures a peaceful, quiet environment.
For renters, it’s a feature that significantly increases the appeal of your ADU, making it a more desirable and comfortable space.
#4. High-End Kitchen Appliances
Okay, maybe not super high-end restaurant grade appliances, but investing in a good full-sized kitchen stove or refrigerator from a trusted brand is going to make a big difference in the long-run.
Quality kitchen appliances are built to last longer, perform better, and be more energy-efficient, which can save you money on repairs and utility bills over time.
#5. Ductless Mini-Split HVAC System
We’ve gotten to a point, where air conditioning and heating in every home is a must (thanks climate change).
A ductless mini-split HVAC system is a perfect solution for ADUs, providing efficient and customizable climate control without the need for bulky ductwork. These systems are compact, easy to install, and offer both heating and cooling, allowing you to maintain the perfect temperature year-round. They are also energy-efficient, helping you save on utility bills while keeping your ADU comfortable. With individual room controls, you can also adjust the temperature for different areas, offering the flexibility to meet your specific needs.
#6. Tankless Water Heater
Photo by Auger Pros Plumbing
When you’re already working with a small space, you don’t want precious square footage being wasted on a large water heater tank. A tankless water heater is a space-saving, energy-efficient upgrade that provides hot water on demand, without the need for a bulky tank. Not only does it free up space, but it also eliminates the standby energy loss associated with traditional water heaters, saving you money on utility bills. Seeing a trend here?
Check out what a tankless water heater looks like here.
#7. Custom Cabinetry
There’s nothing wrong with purchasing modular cabinets from a big box store. There’s a lot of variety and they can be super durable these days.
But, there’s something about custom cabinetry that tickles our brain when it comes to maximizing space, enhancing design, and creating a unique look. Custom cabinets allow you to design every detail—from the layout to the materials—ensuring a perfect fit for your ADU.
#8. Long Lasting Flooring
There are three common types of flooring:
- Hardwood
- Luxury vinyl
- Laminate
Laminate is the most affordable choice and looks great, but it doesn’t hold up over the years. If you’re going to have to replace the flooring every couple of years it’s worth it to splurge a bit on luxury vinyl. Luxury vinyl offers a better balance of durability and aesthetics, with a long lifespan and a wide variety of styles that mimic hardwood or tile.
Hardwood has a long-life span as well, but it might be overkill for an ADU since it has the highest price tag by far. But, if you have your heart set on the classic look and feel of it, we say go for it!
#9. Washer & Dryer
Anyone who has ever had to lug their dirty laundry to the laundromat knows what a pain it can be. Unfortunately, we’ve noticed a trend where real estate investors are cutting out washers and dryers from their plans to save money and increase ROI. Their mindset is, “if it’s not required, I won’t include it.” However, by skipping this amenity, they’re doing themselves a disservice in the long run.
A washer and dryer is one of the most sought after amenities for renters when weighing their housing options. It can even justify a higher rent price, leading to a better return on investment over time. Including a washer and dryer could be the difference between filling your rental quickly or leaving it vacant.
#10. Separate Utility Meters
Whether you’re building an ADU for rental purposes, for family use, or as a personal space, installing separate utility meters is a smart decision. While it may feel like an added upfront cost, it can provide long-term benefits that make it worthwhile. With separate meters, each unit is responsible for its own water, gas, and electricity consumption, which can simplify billing and prevent disputes over utility usage.
Discuss Your Options With Maxable
Regardless of your budget, Maxable is here to help you plan your ADU and connect you to a designer or general contractor in your area. Our team has seen everything from modest garage conversions to two story detached luxury units. As one of the top ADU resources in the country, we’ve just about seen every type of project and we’re prepared to pass on our knowledge to you.
Ready to get started? Book a call with one of our team members and we’ll get started right away with building your team.
