Accessory dwelling units (ADUs) are known by many names: in-law suites, guest houses, backyard cottages, or basement or garage conversions, among others. What all ADUs have in common is that they’re a separate living space typically added to a single-family residential lot, and they’re having a moment. Constructing an ADU could increase your property value…

The California Housing Finance Agency (CalHFA) announced Sept. 29 that it will be offering up to $25,000 to low- to moderate-income homeowners to build accessory dwelling units (ADUs) on their property. Critics are concerned it will lead to higher housing costs, less homeownership, and more rental units. Former mayor of Costa Mesa Jim Righeimer said building…

NEWPORT BEACH, Calif.—Newport Beach city council recently approved a temporary discontinuation of permit fees for accessory dwelling units (ADU) in an effort to meet the state’s housing requirement. The state has directed Newport Beach to create 4,845 new housing units throughout the next eight years under Regional Housing Needs Allocation requirements. ADUs are secondary structures,…