Accessory dwelling units (ADUs) are taking over the rental market and we can see why! Renters are scrambling for these versatile spaces, often claiming them before the owners can list the rental ADU.
ADUs offer a unique blend of affordability, privacy, and convenience, making them highly desirable for a wide range of tenants, from young professionals to retirees. To ensure your ADU attracts and retains renters, it’s essential to equip it with features that cater to their needs and enhance their living experience. Here are six things every rental ADU needs to create happy tenants and, in turn, happy landlords.
ADU Requirements
Before we get into the extras, you first need to make sure your ADU has all of the legal requirements for long-term occupancy. To obtain your Certificate of Occupancy, your ADU must have all of the following:
- Private entrance (tenant should not need to enter the primary house to access the ADU unless you are building a Junior ADU)
- Level foundation
- Full utilities including water, sewage, and electricity
- Full kitchen including cooking stove, cupboards, refrigerator, outlets, and countertops for food preparation
- Full bathroom including toilet, sink, and shower or bath
- Bedroom or adequate space for a bed if building a studio
There are more nitty gritty details that your ADU will require, but these are the biggest elements that will need to be included in your permit set. By including all of this, you are already starting off on the right foot for drawing in tenants, but why not take it a step further?
By equipping your ADU with useful amenities, you can ensure your tenant will stick around for the long-haul, which will lead to fewer vacancies, more consistent rental income, and a more positive rental experience for both you and your tenants.
#1: Some type of physical separation
Everyone wants privacy, especially when they’re in their own home, including yourself! A fence is an easy way to create that separation, but there are more creative and aesthetically pleasing ways to create that separation.
For example, you can use landscaping to your advantage by strategically placing shrubbery and trees. These natural barriers not only provide privacy but also enhance the beauty of the property. Another option is to install trellises with climbing plants or to create a garden wall. Additionally, you can use decorative screens or outdoor partitions to create private areas without compromising on style.
Even the placement of your ADU and its entrance will help maintain that privacy. Properties that sit on a corner or have an alley behind it are in prime locations. The side of the property that sits by the road or alley can be dedicated to your ADU so that you and your tenant never have to cross paths. If you’re having a hard time visualizing this, take a look at Felicia’s garage conversion in San Diego. The entrance of her rental ADU sits facing the back of the property where her lucky tenant has their own entrance to the unit from the rear street. Although something tells us that her tenant would prefer to cross paths with Felicia much as possible ;)
#2: Outdoor space
One of the prime advantages that ADUs have that apartments usually lack is the opportunity to incorporate yard space. Sure, apartments can have balconies, but they pale in comparison to an actual yard with greenery and probably some extra square footage.
Adding an outdoor area that is solely dedicated to the ADU is one of the easiest and cost-effective ways to enhance the living experience for your tenants. This space can be used for relaxing, gardening, entertaining guests, or even as an outdoor dining area.
This outdoor area is especially useful for tenants with pets. A pet friendly ADU will attract a wider range of renters and can command higher rental rates. Tenants with pets will appreciate the convenience of having a secure outdoor space for their furry friends to play and exercise, making your ADU a more desirable and accommodating option for pet owners.
#3 Laundry Unit
If there’s one takeaway from this article that you should ingrain into your brain it’s the importance of having a washer and dryer in the unit. It’s not required, but having one will have your tenant leaping with joy. If you’ve ever had to haul your dirty laundry to the laundromat on your day off, you understand just how valuable a living space with an in-unit washer and dryer can be.
Just keep in mind, a washer and dryer isn’t something that you can easily add in halfway through construction. Because they need utility connections to function, it’ll be easiest to incorporate the laundry area as early as the design phase. Make sure you relay this to your ADU designer so that they make sure to incorporate it into your floor plan.
#4 Durable Finishes
An ADU is an expensive project, so we completely understand wanting to save costs where you can. However, buying low-quality finishes in an effort to cut corners can end up costing more in the long run. Opting for high-quality, durable materials means less frequent repairs and replacements, saving both time and money over the years.
Durable finishes also enhance the overall appeal of the rental ADU, making it more attractive to potential renters. Tenants are more likely to be satisfied and stay longer when they live in a well-maintained, aesthetically pleasing space. Consider materials like hardwood or laminate flooring, quartz countertops, and ceramic tile, which are not only long-lasting but also add a touch of elegance to the unit.
A lot of these items you can even find second-hand for very affordable prices. Habitat for Humanity ReStores specialize in stocking second-hand materials. They’re fantastic for finding everything from tiles, flooring, doors, windows, and everything in between. Also check on Nextdoor, Facebook Marketplace, and your local thrift stores to see what you can score.
#5 Parking
If you live in California and live within half a mile from public transit, you are not required to add off-street parking for your ADU. However, providing a designated parking space can significantly enhance the appeal of your ADU, especially in areas where street parking is limited or highly competitive (we’re looking at you Los Angeles). Tenants will appreciate the convenience and security of having a dedicated spot for their vehicle, reducing the daily stress of searching for parking. This can be a major selling point for potential renters, setting your rental ADU apart from others in the market.
#6 Accessibility Features
An ADA compliant ADU isn’t required, but it definitely doesn’t hurt to include these features to not only appeal to a wider range of tenants, but also ensure your tenant is comfortable in their own home.
These can be easy installations like wider doorframes and lever-style door handles, which make it easier for those with mobility issues to navigate the space. Additionally, consider features like grab bars in the bathroom, a no-threshold entrance, and lower countertops and light switches. These small adjustments can make a big difference in accessibility and comfort for tenants with disabilities or those who are aging.
By incorporating these thoughtful design elements, you increase the marketability of your ADU and demonstrate a commitment to creating an inclusive, welcoming environment for all potential renters.
Ready to Get Started on Your Rental ADU?
Ready to get started on your ADU project and incorporate these essential features? Book a call with Maxable today to ensure your ADU meets all your needs and stands out in the rental market. We have helped hundreds of homeowners build their ADUs, transforming their properties and enhancing their rental income.
At Maxable, we connect homeowners to local ADU designers and builders based on their specific project needs. Our network of experienced professionals will guide you through every step of the process, from initial design to final construction. Let’s create a space that tenants will love and you’ll be proud of! Sign up for a call with our team today.
