Can I Sell an Accessory Dwelling Unit Separately from My Primary Home?

Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) have gained significant traction as a versatile option for homeowners, serving as additional living spaces for family members, rental opportunities, or just an extra space to enjoy. At Prospect 30 Eight Construction, with over a decade of experience in the Denver Metro Area, we’ve guided countless homeowners through the process of adding an ADU to their property. A common question we encounter is: Can you sell an ADU separately from the primary residence?

Understanding ADUs and Property Law

First, it’s crucial to grasp what an ADU is and how property laws apply to it:

• Definition of an ADU:
  An ADU, or Accessory Dwelling Unit, is essentially a secondary housing unit on a single-family residential lot. It can be attached to or detached from the main house.
• Property Law Fundamentals:
  Generally, an ADU is considered part of the same property as the main house. This means they usually share a single legal description and are subject to the same property rights and regulations.

Can You Sell an ADU Separately?

In most instances, the short answer is no, due to the way ADUs are classified and regulated:

• Same Parcel of Land:
  Since the ADU and the primary home occupy the same parcel of land, they are inherently linked in the eyes of the law and, therefore, are not sold independently.
• Zoning Regulations:
  Local zoning laws play a significant role in determining the feasibility of selling an ADU separately. These regulations often require ADUs to remain an accessory to the primary dwelling.

Exceptions and Considerations

While the general rule is that ADUs cannot be sold separately, there are exceptions and alternative strategies:

• Subdivision:
  In some rare cases, if local zoning allows, a property could potentially be subdivided, legally splitting the ADU from the primary home. This process is complex and requires approval from local authorities.
• Condominiumization:
  Another potential but complex path is transforming the property into a condominium plan, where the ADU and main house are sold as separate units. This also requires significant legal and zoning approvals.

Trust and Expertise with Prospect 30 Eight Construction

Whether you’re contemplating adding an ADU to your property or exploring options for an existing ADU, the importance of partnering with a trusted and experienced builder cannot be overstated. At Prospect 30 Eight Construction:

• We prioritize honest, transparent communication.
• Our team has a proven record of quality craftsmanship and customer satisfaction.
• We navigate the complexities of construction and zoning laws ensuring a smooth, compliant process.

Taking the Next Steps

Interested in exploring ADUs or any construction projects with clarity and confidence? Contact Prospect 30 Eight Construction today. Our award-winning team is ready to make your dream project a reality, providing expertise and guidance every step of the way.

Since 2006, Prospect 30 Eight Construction has been building top-quality custom homes, home additions, and Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) throughout the Denver Metro Area and the Front Range.