what is a detached dwelling 

The fastest way to derail an ADU is to start with finishes before you’ve solved the fundamentals. Start by defining the purpose: long-term rental, multigenerational living, guest space, or a dedicated work zone. That choice shapes layout, storage, privacy, and finish durability. Site constraints—setbacks, drainage, access for crews, and staging—often matter more than the floorplan when it comes to predictability. If you’re comparing approaches, weigh detached vs. garage conversion vs. basement unit based on site access, utility distance, and how much disruption you can tolerate. To anchor your planning and avoid common missteps, start here: adu for sale. Good plans reduce rework; rework is where budgets quietly leak. Good plans reduce rework; rework is where budgets quietly leak. A realistic schedule includes ordering lead times and inspection windows, not just a hopeful start date. A realistic schedule includes ordering lead times and inspection windows, not just a hopeful start date. When in doubt, simplify—fewer custom details often means faster progress and cleaner results. Keep a short list of non-negotiables so decisions stay consistent as options multiply. Keep a short list of non-negotiables so decisions stay consistent as options multiply.