New MA ADU law can be a gamechanger!

[Tyler Munroe]

I'd love to get more conversation going about the new MA ADU law going into effect Feb. 2nd. This provision, through the Affordable Homes Act, make ADUs legal BY RIGHT in any single family zoned property in the state. I'm actually hearing that it will be allowed for residential multi family as well, although haven't confirmed that. As long as the ADU is under 900 sq. ft. and meets the state building code, there will be no variance or special permit needed, so no ZBA or neighborhood meetings. Additionally, any existing restrictions at the town level (there are MANY) will be abolished, unless deemed "reasonable" by the state. Lastly, ADUs are allowed for NON owner occupied properties, opening this strategy up for investors who could convert a SF into two units.

That's just a brief summary, but I feel like there's not as much buzz and excitement around this law as there should be. If you look what ADUs have done for California, it seems like this can be a transformative trend here in MA. 

I think initially it makes sense to find properties that already have finished basements, in-law suites, etc. as converting those spaces to ADUs will be inexpensive and create a significant amount of rental income ($2,000/month+ in most areas close to the city). As ground-up ADU builds gain popularity I hope we see some affordable options, like modular, but from what I'm seeing now the ROI just wouldn't be there.

I'm trying to help spread the word about this law and compile as much information as possible so I can help investors capitalize on it. Would love to get some BP community feedback on what you all think of this, let me know!