Stuck in a rut with your living situation? Has your rent gone up recently? Looking to buy but not sure where to start? Converting your garage into prefab accessory dwelling units can solve all of these problems! ADUs and prefab office backyard provide an affordable option and a way to save money, time, and energy. Check out these seven ways to save money with an ADU conversion! You’ll be glad you did!
1) Earn Extra Income
A garage conversion ADU can provide you with much-needed extra income, especially if you’re struggling to make ends meet. If you’re already living in your home, the project will also offer an opportunity for some DIY renovations that will help boost your home’s value at the same time.
The best way to start saving money is by getting started on your project as soon as possible and cutting out costs where possible. One of the best ways to save money is by sourcing materials from local recycling centers or scrap yards instead of buying new ones from a hardware store.
If you have any skills like plumbing or carpentry, then be sure to put them into good use because they’ll come in handy during the renovation process and afterward too!
2) Lower Property Taxes
A garage conversion ADU can provide you with much-needed extra living space without breaking the bank. There are several ways you can save money by converting your garage into an ADU. Read on for our top seven ideas:
The number one way to save money is in property taxes! A typical two-car garage will cost $1,000 per year in property taxes if it’s empty, but this would drop down to $200 if it’s being used as a residential unit.
If you’re considering building an ADU for long-term use, think about finding creative financing solutions like tapping into your 401k or refinancing the home itself. And be sure that all structural work is completed before submitting your application – they don’t want anyone using the house while they’re still building it!
3) Get Community Support
One of the best ways to save money on your garage conversion is to get community support. There are often city or county programs that offer financial assistance for homeowners looking to convert their garage into an ADU. By getting community support, you can often tap into these programs and save yourself thousands of dollars.
4) Consult an Architect
Hiring an architect might seem like an unnecessary expense when you’re trying to save money, but it’s one of the smartest things you can do. An architect will help you design a space that’s functional, efficient, and stylish—all while staying within your budget. Plus, they can help you navigate the permitting process, which can be tricky and time-consuming.
5) Keep it Durable
A garage conversion is a great way to add extra living space to your home without spending a lot of money. By keeping the conversion durable, you can save money in the long run. Here are seven ways to keep your garage conversion durable:
- Use high-quality materials that will last for years.
- Make sure the foundation is strong and level.
- Choose energy-efficient windows and doors.
- Add insulation to keep the space comfortable year-round.
6) Use Eco-Friendly Materials
One way to save money during your garage conversion is by using eco-friendly materials. Not only will this help you save on the initial costs, but it will also help you save on energy bills in the long run. Some great eco-friendly materials to use are
7) Do It Right
A garage conversion can be a great way to save money, but it’s important to do it right. Here are seven ways to make sure you get the most out of your garage conversion:
- Plan and get the proper permits. This will save you time and money in the long run.
- Work with a reputable contractor who has experience with garage conversions.
- Insulate your garage properly to maximize energy efficiency.
Conclusion
Are you looking for ways to save money on your housing costs? Do you want to spend less time in your car and more time at home with your family? If so, an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) may be just the solution! ADUs—basically an accessory apartment that is created by adding onto or converting an existing structure—allow families to live more affordably, even if they’re in densely populated areas where traditional houses are hard to come by. Nowadays, many jurisdictions allow ADUs, including detached garage conversions and backyard cottages.