ADU Accessory Dwelling Units in 2026: The Zoning Loophole Turning Backyards Into Rental Income Backyard cottages have gone from zoning footnote to serious investment vehicle. A breakdown of what an ADU actually costs to build, how to finance one, and where the rent covers the mortgage in 2026.
real estate ADUs in 2026: How Homeowners Are Turning the Land They Already Own Into a Second Rent Check While Rates Stay High With rates still high, the backyard cottage has gone from California curiosity to mainstream play. The real build costs, the by-right laws that removed the risk, the financing shift, and where the math actually pencils.
California California ADU Legislation Drives Backyard Building Surge California issued more than 28,000 permits for accessory dwelling units in 2025, a record driven by state laws limiting local restrictions.
