DADU Essentials
Small footprint, full life
A DADU is a complete home — typically 400–1,000 sq ft — with its own entrance, kitchen, bath, laundry and heating. In Everett, detached ADUs up to 1,000 sq ft are broadly allowed on residential lots under state law.
- Cost: $300–$500/sq ft in 2026 — a 750 sq ft cottage runs about $225,000–$375,000 all-in
- Timeline: 8–12 months design-to-keys, including permits
- Rent potential: $1,500–$2,200/mo depending on size and city
- Utilities: usually shared meters or simple subpanels — we design the cheapest compliant path
Full numbers: ADU cost guide → · Rules: what’s allowed →
Design Choices
Cottages that earn their keep
01Studio & 1-bed
400–600 sq ft — fastest to build, easiest to rent, lowest cost.
022-bed family
700–1,000 sq ft — houses parents or a small family comfortably.
03Above-garage
Build over new or existing garage — doubles your lot’s utility.
04Aging-in-place
Zero-step entries, curbless showers, wide doors — dignity by design.
Wondering what fits your backyard?