Thinking about an accessory dwelling unit?

ADU's are a big topic these days.  They can be a way to add a rental unit to your property, add a guest house for your own use, or even a unit to be used as a short term rental (Airbnb, Vacasa etc).

Different municipalities have different regulations, so be sure to research your specific location. For instance, in the City of Portland, some system development charges will be waived IF you agree not to use the ADU as a short term rental .

Because, by definition, ADU's are added to an existing property, they are very situational.  The City of Portland has different rules, depending on the existing structure, size,  lot size, orientation on the lot, and so on.   For this reason it is helpful, and important to work with an architect and builder who have experience in designing, permitting and building ADU's.

Kol Petersen wrote Backdoor Revolution, A Definitive Guide to ADU Development, which can be a good place to start.  His website also has a bunch of resources, and he is organizing the upcoming ADU tour, for which you can register here.

And here are a few more resources. Folks who will do consults, plans and such.

Schuler Smith, Polyphon Architecture and Design:  503-208-5678  schuyler@polyphon.com

Aram Irwin  503-544-5971  aramirwin@gmail.com 

www.Adupdx.com   Their website has a form to fill out, and they’ll schedule a “conversation” with you within three days.

The City of Portland has a nice document about converting attics and basements to living space.  And a bunch of information about ADU's. 

Does an ADU add value to a property?  Yes (unless it eats up the whole yard).  We are seeing lots of multi-generational households, where a separate living space is welcome.  In addition, folks like the ability to supplement their income with either a short or long term rental. 

Adding an ADU should be done mindfully, taking into account the lot, neighborhood and setting.  Projects with site work incorporating the ADU into the property, while giving each dwelling some private outdoor space, are best.

Don and I will be taking the toour on June 22nd.  Are you?  And in the coming months we'll be researching and planning to build an ADU ourselves.  If you've got questions, or ar just ADU curious, get in touch.