What to Know Before Building a Guesthouse By Joe Szabo, Scottsdale Real Estate Team

By Joe Szabo, Scottsdale Real Estate Team Those tiny, often very cute homes that people are adding on their properties seem to be popping up everywhere these days. The tiny buildings can provide extra rental income, offer a less-expensive housing option or provide a home for a relative. Accessory dwelling units, or ADUs, are second dwelling units created on a lot with an existing house or attached house. They’re often referred to as mother-in-law apartments, granny flats or studio apartments. As a homeowner, what are the legal issues to consider before building an ADU of your own?

Different cities, different rules

First off, different cities have different rules. Before plotting the space for your new tiny house, check with your city’s planning and zoning department to determine what those rules are. You can start online at accessorydwellings.org for a list of regulations by state and city. Although it’s not always necessary to hire an architect or engineer in the design process, it’s often a good idea, says Lydia Afeman, who is building a home with two micro-apartments on her property in Houston. Involving professionals can help ensure that you’ve covered all your bases on structure safety. Southern California real estate lawyer Flavia Berys urges homeowners to check local zoning laws and apply for the proper building permits with their local planning department. She also advises them to confirm that their contractor is insured and licensed. Homeowners should check for building restrictions in their home or property title policy and consult their homeowners association, if applicable.

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Please note that this Scottsdale Real Estate Blog is for informational purposes and not intended to take the place of a licensed Scottsdale Real Estate Agent. The Szabo Group offers first class real estate services to clients in the Scottsdale Greater Phoenix Metropolitan Area in the buying and selling of Luxury homes in Arizona. Award winning Realtors and Re/MAX top producers and best real estate agent for Luxury Homes in Scottsdale, The Szabo group delivers experience, knowledge, dedication and proven results. Contact Joe Szabo at 480.688.2020, info@ScottsdaleRealEstateTeam.com or visit www.scottsdalerealestateteam.com to find out more about Scottsdale Homes for Sale and Estates for Sale in Scottsdale and to search the Scottsdale MLS for Scottsdale Home Listings.