Backyard Casitas: Expanding Affordable Housing Options Statewide

Arizona homeowners could soon have the opportunity to build accessory dwelling units (ADUs) in their backyards, following the approval of a similar concept by the Phoenix City Council. Senator Anna Hernandez and Representative Lorena Austin have sponsored bills, SB 1415 and HB 2299 respectively, to allow ADUs statewide. These bills have passed committee and are advancing through the legislative process.

Phoenix-based company AzADU LLC, led by Tom Mulhern, is prepared to handle the entire process of constructing ADUs, including design, permitting, and construction. Co-founder Pat Moroney, a veteran homebuilder, sees the potential for ADUs to positively impact affordable housing in the state. The company offers ADUs starting in the $130,000s, with sizes ranging from 480 to 784 square feet.

Luke Bevans, another co-founder, highlights the potential for ADUs to alleviate the affordable housing crisis in Arizona by providing options for multigenerational living arrangements or rental opportunities. AzADU offers permit-ready plans and aims to address the growing demand for affordable housing solutions in the state.

Minimal Living Concepts LLC, another company in the Valley, has already sold over 80 tiny homes in municipalities that permit backyard dwellings. Co-founders Zander Diamont and Jared Amzallag emphasize the growing interest in ADUs, particularly for multigenerational living arrangements. Their homes start at $175,000 and cater to various housing needs, with increasing interest in larger luxury units.

The trend of multigenerational living is also being recognized by larger homebuilders like Lennar Corp. and Landsea Homes Corp., who are incorporating attached units with separate entrances into their developments. This concept is gaining traction amid rising rental and mortgage interest rates.

Overall, the push for statewide approval of ADUs reflects a growing recognition of alternative housing solutions to address affordability challenges in Arizona's real estate market.

Photo Credit: Minimal Living Concepts