What Does It Cost to Build an ADU in Colorado

Typical Sizes of an ADU and Their Costs

Accessory Dqelling Units are usually available in three sizes. Before getting to the price part, you must decide what size you want, so it’s easier to estimate the total cost. 

Small Size Modular Flat

The smallest size in an ADU is the 245 sq ft one. You can use this space however you like. Make it an art studio, home office, or a small gym. 

The price of this size is estimated at around $115,000-$150,000. This includes a small kitchen designed for limited cooking, a bathroom, and a sleeping area. All of the facilities, like utility, plumbing, etc., are the same as the other-sized ADUs. 

Why Smaller ADUs Seem More Expensive

In comparison, small Accessory Dwelling Units may seem a bit more expensive. This is because small modular flats require more attention in terms of furniture, storage, appliances, etc. Small flex flats need built-in furniture, creative storage, and compact alliances. All of these things are expensive and thus increase the overall cost of the ADU. 

Medium Size Modular Flat

The medium-sized granny flat or modular flat is about 490 sq ft in size. This size is perfect for turning it into a guest house, rental property, or a safe space for you and your family to spend quality time. 

The costing for this one is around $160,000-$215,000. At this price, you will get a separate bedroom, a full kitchen, and a bathroom. It is basically a tiny home that you can use however you like. Many people use this property as a rental and earn a few extra bucks from it.

Full Size Modular Flat

The largest size of an ADU is around 735-750 sq ft, which could be extended to 800 sq ft depending on the area. This is the most luxurious ADU of all, as it has a lot of space. The designs for this size of Accessory Dwelling Unit are way more creative and sustainable. 

The charges for this type of ADU are around $235,000-$300,000. This flex flat feels like a tiny home with 2 bedrooms, 1 kitchen, and a bathroom. If you are thinking about making your ADU a long-term rental property, then this one is your best option as it has better long-term rental value. 

Rule of Thumb

You can even use the rule of thumb to calculate the cost of your modular flat. An ADU built to about 30 to 40% the size of your residential home will cost around 30 to 40% of your home’s market value. 

Types of Accessory Dwelling Units

There are three types of granny flats, also known as accessory dwelling units, modular flats, casitas, or MIL suites, allowed in Colorado. These three types are interior, attached, and detached ADUs. 

If you have enough vacant space inside your residential home, you can go for the interior ADU, which is built inside your house, usually in the basement, attic, etc. But most people don’t have that much space inside their homes.

This is when attached and detached ADUs come into the frame. Attached ADUs are mostly for personal use as they are attached to your residential home by at least one wall. Which means the ADU will share a wall with your house. 

But if you are thinking about using it as a rental property, we suggest you get a detached ADU built. A detached modular flat is a completely different property built in your backyard or any other vacant space around the plot.  

As for the charges, detached ADUs are a bit more expensive than attached Accessory Dwelling Units. This is because detached ADUs require their own separate foundation, exterior walls, roof, and utility lines. 

Connect With Olerra

For more information about the exact cost of your ADU, including permits, administrative process, etc., contact Olerra today. We will help you select the perfect size and design for your modular flat according to the available space on your property. Our process is seamless and will take more than half the burden off your shoulders. 

Book a consultation with us today so we can help you out, and you don’t end up wasting any of your time. We will provide you with a free property check and a quote form, so reach out today and avail this great deal.