7 Reasons to Build a DADU on Your Property

Adding a backyard living space is one of the fastest-growing home improvement projects in Seattle.

In fact, after Seattle updated its zoning regulations in 2019 to make accessory dwelling units easier to build, permits surged from roughly 280 units per year to nearly 1,000 annually in recent years. In just a few years, DADU construction in the city more than tripled, turning what used to be a little-known acronym into one of Seattle’s biggest housing trends.

It also doesn’t hurt that Seattle home values have risen significantly over the same period. With property prices climbing since 2019, many homeowners are looking for ways to maximize the value and flexibility of the property they already own — and a backyard cottage can be a smart way to do exactly that.

A Detached Accessory Dwelling Unit (DADU) — often called a backyard cottage — is a small, fully functional home built on the same lot as a primary residence. These compact homes can serve as rental units, guest houses, or private living space for family members.

For homeowners looking to make the most of their property, a DADU can be a smart long-term investment. Here are some of the biggest benefits — and a few things to consider before getting started.

Here are 7 reasons to consider adding a DADU to your Burien property.

1. Generate Rental Income
   One of the most common reasons Seattle homeowners build a DADU is the potential for long-term rental income. With Seattle’s strong housing demand, a backyard cottage can create consistent monthly revenue that helps offset a mortgage, fund additional home renovations, or simply builds additional equity in your property. In fact, more local homeowners are using DADUs as long-term rentals for professionals, students, or local workers who want a small independent living space.
2. Increase Your Property Value
   Adding a second livable structure to your property can significantly increase its overall value.
   A DADU effectively creates two housing units on one lot, which can make the property more appealing to future buyers who may want rental income or additional living space. In a competitive housing like Seattle, that flexibility can be a major advantage.
3. Create Space for Family or Multigenerational Living
   DADUs are also ideal for families who want to keep loved ones nearby while maintaining privacy.
   Homeowners commonly build backyard cottages for aging parents, adult children returning home, long-term guests, or caregivers. It’s a setup that allows family members to live independently while still being close to the main household.
4. Make Better Use of Your Property
   Many Seattle homes have underused backyard space that could become a valuable living area. A well-designed DADU can transform that space into a functional home office, studio, rental unit, or guest house — all while maintaining the character of the existing property. For homeowners who are already considering projects like basement remodels or converting garages into living space, adding a backyard cottage is another way to expand usable square footage without moving.
5. Take Advantage of Updated Zoning Rules
   Seattle has gradually updated its housing policies to encourage more accessory dwelling units.
   Today, many residential lots can include both an attached ADU and a detached ADU, giving homeowners more flexibility than in the past. These changes were designed to expand housing options while helping homeowners make better use of their land. This has resulted in huge amount of backyard cottages popping up all local neighborhoods.
6. Add Flexible Living Space
   A DADU can serve many different purposes over time. Some homeowners build them as rental units first, then later convert them into guest houses or family living spaces. Others use them as private home offices, creative studios, or remote work spaces. Because they are separate structures, they provide privacy that additions or basement remodels may not.
7. Residential Friendly Way to Address Seattle’s Housing Demand
   Seattle continues to face strong demand for housing. Smaller homes like DADUs help add new living spaces without dramatically changing neighborhood character. This type of “gentle density” allows cities to increase housing options while keeping the look and feel of residential neighborhoods intact.

Things to Consider Before Building a DADU

While the benefits are clear, building a DADU does require careful planning. Some important factors include:

• Property size and layout
  Not every lot can accommodate a detached unit. Setbacks, access, and available yard space all play a role in determining what’s possible.
• Permitting and city regulations
  DADUs must comply with Seattle building codes and go through the city’s permitting process.
• Utility connections
  Water, sewer, electrical, and sometimes alley access can affect the design and overall cost.
• Construction planning
  Because DADUs include kitchens, bathrooms, and full utilities in a smaller footprint, thoughtful design and experienced construction are key to making the most of the space.

Is a DADU Right for Your Property?

If you’re considering building a DADU or backyard cottage in the Burien community, working with an experienced contractor early in the process can help you understand what’s possible for your lot and how to navigate the design and permitting process.

With the right planning, a DADU can transform unused backyard space into a valuable and versatile addition to your property.

Please call us at (206) 257-1200 to tell us about your DADU project, or fill out the form here to get started. We’d love to hear about your dream, and help make it a reality!