In Town Atlanta ADU Build Cost

[Jon Ogrodnick]

Hey BP,

I recently finished a renovation on my SFH in an in-town neighborhood and am looking for my next project. I've been interested for a while in building an ADU (my lot is zoned R5) in the back that would have a garage/workshop on the bottom with a 2 bed, 1 bath apartment above it that I could use for hosting guests and as a short-term rental. Based on local rates I would expect it to fetch approximately $110 - $150 a night.

Does anyone have any experience with building an ADU on their own lot in Atlanta, and if so, what did the final costs end up being in terms of sq. footage? Also, did you notice a marked increase in your home value by adding an ADU?

Thanks!

[Rick Baggenstoss]

A lot of costs are fixed while some vary by volume like square foot. I would think a 1000sf ADU would be $80k - $120k depending on your finishes. Here's a rough estimate:

Survey, architect fees, permits are fixed.  $5k

Foundation and Framing - 25k

Mechanicals - $15k

Insulation, Drywall, Trim, Paint - $18k

Roof, siding, windows, exterior trim - $15k

Flooring, Fixtures, Cabinets, Furnishings - $14k