How Much Value Does an Accessory Dwelling Unit Add?

If you’ve added an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) to your property, you’ve likely invested tens of thousands of dollars — or in some cases, much more. Now that you’re preparing to sell, you may be wondering: How much of that investment will I get back? The exact amount depends on a combination of factors, and whether you followed the rules when you built it. In this guide, we’ll break down how ADUs affect resale value, what influences pricing, and how to estimate your home’s value with an ADU in place. We’ll also share expert tips and insights from two of the nation’s top-rated real estate agents. How Much Is Your Home Worth Now? Home values have rapidly increased in recent years. How much is your current home worth now? Get a ballpark estimate from HomeLight’s free Home Value Estimator. What is an accessory dwelling unit? An accessory dwelling unit is a secondary residential unit located on the same lot as a primary home. It has its own living space and typically includes a kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping area. Many ADUs range in size from about 600 to 1,200 square feet. Denise Madan, a HomeLight Elite agent in Florida with 27 years of experience, explains that an ADU can be known ...