the big potential of small spaces

Whether you want to build a cozy space to bring the grandparents closer, make room for a home office, or just need more space for your growing family, Casita’s Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and additions can help you create passive income, increase property value, and add the perfect space for every season of your life—without leaving the home you love.
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ADU

Custom ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit)

Transform your property with a custom ADU tailored to your unique needs. Our expert designers and builders create personalized living spaces that can seamlessly blend with your existing home or standout as a show-piece. From cozy granny flats to stylish guest houses, we offer a range of custom and semi-custom options to maximize your property's potential. Experience the perfect balance of functionality and aesthetics with our innovative ADU solutions.

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ADU

Pool Houses

Elevate your outdoor oasis with a custom-designed pool house. Our team creates functional and stylish spaces that extend your summer enjoyment. From changing rooms and indoor or outdoor storage options to fully equipped entertainment areas with everything from a wet bar to a full kitchen, or anything in-between, we tailor each pool house to your specific needs. Our designs not only enhance your property's aesthetics and expand your enjoyment but also add significant value to your home.

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Pool Houses

Home Office

Create the ideal work-from-home environment with our custom home office solutions by eliminating all the distractions that are inside of your house. We understand the importance of a dedicated, professional space in today's remote work landscape. Our designs incorporate essential features like built-in workstations, ample storage, and optimized lighting. We can also focus on soundproofing and connectivity to ensure a productive and comfortable workspace without the distraction of kids and pets underfoot.

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Home Office

Rec Space

Recreation Space

Design your perfect retreat with our custom recreation spaces. Whether you're envisioning a home gym, game room, multi-purpose area, or large dining area for entertaining, we bring your recreational dreams to life. Our expert team considers factors like layout, lighting, and acoustics to create an inviting atmosphere for relaxation and entertainment. Transform your home into a personal haven with our tailored recreation solutions.

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Rec Space

Outdoor Living

Do you love the outdoors or just need an upgrade to your old patio? Extend your living space into nature with our custom outdoor living designs. From expansive patios, decks and outdoor kitchens to cozy fireplaces, pergolas and pavilions, we create stunning outdoor environments that complement your lifestyle. Our designs seamlessly blend form and function, allowing you to expand your indoor comforts outdoors to enjoy your backyard year-round. Experience the luxury of outdoor living with our expertly crafted spaces.

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Outdoor Living

Garage Addition

Maximize your home's potential with a custom garage addition. Unlock new possibilities, the potential for passive income or guest lodging, and add value to your property with our tailored garage solutions. Our designs go beyond simple car storage, offering versatile spaces that can double as workshops, home gyms, or even guest rooms. We ensure each garage addition complements your home's architecture while providing the functionality you need.

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Garage Addition

Financing options

With home equity at an all-time high, many homeowners choose to increase their property value and fund their ADUs by borrowing against the equity of their homes. While home equity loans or lines of credit are the most common and straightforward form of financing, sometimes they aren’t practical or feasible. There are many creative solutions our financial partners can provide.
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FAQs

Building Your Casita

While most builders offer generic solutions, Casita specializes in custom small homes tailored to your unique needs. We guide you through every step, from conceptual design to the finishing touches, ensuring a stress-free building process. At Casita, we don't just build small homes – we build community.

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How much more energy efficient is an ADU compared to a traditional home?

ADUs (Accessory Dwelling Units) are generally more energy efficient than traditional homes due to their compact size and modern construction techniques. While exact figures can vary, here are some key points about ADU energy efficiency:

  • CO2 Emissions: ADUs can cut lifetime CO2 emissions by as much as 40% compared to medium-sized single-family homes.
  • Heating and Cooling: The smaller size of ADUs means they require less energy for heating and cooling. Mini-splits and in-line water heaters, which are often used in ADUs, can significantly reduce energy consumption.
  • Size Regulations: Most cities regulate ADU size to 1,000 square feet or less, which inherently makes them more energy efficient than larger homes.
  • Modern Technologies: New ADUs often incorporate energy-efficient technologies like high-performance windows, LED lighting, and smart thermostats, further enhancing their efficiency.

While the exact energy savings can vary based on design, location, and technologies used, ADUs generally offer substantial energy efficiency improvements over traditional homes. The compact size and opportunity to use the latest energy-saving technologies make ADUs an environmentally friendly housing option.

Will adding and ADU increase my property value?

Based on the search results, the national average property value increase after a homeowner adds an ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) to their property typically ranges from 25% to 35%, with some variations depending on location and specific circumstances.  It's important to note that the actual increase in value can vary based on factors such as the ADU's size, quality, local housing market conditions, and regional differences. For instance, the Midwest sees an average increase of 54% in resale value, while the Pacific region averages 36%.

Can I rent out my ADU?

Yes, ADUs can be rented for short-term or long-term rentals. However, remember that either the primary residence or the ADU must be occupied by a "Responsible Party" and rental units must be registered. The nuances of this differ between jurisdictions.

How long does the ADU approval and construction process typically take?

The timeline can vary depending on the complexity of the project and the current workload of the permitting office. Based on the national average, it can take several months from initial planning to completion.  For a home owner that knows what they want, and is ready to make decisions, Casita can help expedite the process and overall timeline through efficiencies with planning, zoning, permitting, and the build process.

Do I need to hire a professional to design and build my ADU?

While not always required, it's highly recommended to work with design professionals familiar with local regulations. They can help navigate the permitting process and ensure your ADU meets all building codes and zoning requirements.  If you are interested in taking part in the design process, Casita is here to help.  We will assist in the process and connect you with our architect for final build plans and blue prints.

What are the parking requirements for ADUs in the Cincinnati metropolitan area?

Parking requirements can vary based on local zoning designations and lot characteristics. It's recommended to contact County Zoning Information for specific parking requirements related to your property. For Cincinnati, you will likely not be required to add additional off-street parking for an ADU, while other cities and areas of Northern Kentucky require additional parking as a requirement for the ADU.

Are there any financial incentives or programs to help finance ADUs?

While specific incentives may vary, it's worth checking with the local municipality for any current programs or incentives designed to encourage ADU development. Some municipalities offer reduced fees, property tax incentives, or expedited permitting for ADUs.

How much does it typically cost to build an ADU?

Costs can vary widely depending on the size, design, and materials used. Casita is a partner that will walk you through every step of the process.  Typically price falls in line with a luxury new home build and the Average ADU lands in the $200 - $300 per square foot range.  Remember to factor in permit fees, utility connections, and location that may be unique to your property.

What financing options are available for building an ADU?

Financing options for ADUs may include:

  • Home equity loans or lines of credit
  • Cash-out refinancing
  • Construction loans
  • Personal loans
  • 401k Loans
  • Specialized ADU loans (where available)

It's recommended to consult with local lenders familiar with ADU financing  for the most up-to-date options.  We are happy to connect you with local ADU Financial Partners that understand ADU Financing needs and can help you determine the option that is best for you.

Are there owner occupancy requirements for ADUs?

Yes, Cincinnati's ADU ordinance includes an owner occupancy requirement. Either the main residence or the ADU must be occupied by the owner or a designated responsible party for over 75% of the year to ensure community stability. However, there is some flexibility if the occupant of one of the units is registered as the "Responsible Party".

Does Casita build Tiny Homes on wheels?

No, but we may be able to connect you with a vendor.  At Casita we build custom, stick-built ADUs and Tiny Homes that are attached to the ground.  These are permanent structures typically built on concrete slabs, crawl spaces, or piers depending on topography and location requirements. The units are "real" houses... but smaller.

What’s the difference between an ADU and a Tiny Home?

At Casita we build custom, stick-built ADUs and Tiny Homes.  They are both compact living solutions, but differ slightly in purpose, design and functionality.  ADUs are secondary structures built on the same property as a primary residence and serve as additional living space for family members or rental income.  Tiny Homes are primary structures built on its own property.  ADUs are required to follow specific guidelines and restrictions to be compliant with code while Tiny Homes typically have less restrictions that are inline with new build construction.

What can an ADU on my property do for me and my family?

ADUs provide multiple opportunities for families of different ages and at different stages…  Addressing housing affordability (for the home owner or a tenant), Generating passive income, a separate space to work from home, moving loved ones closer for better, more cost-effective care…  https://www.aarp.org/videos/pri/6036647261001/

What things do I need to consider when building a Tiny House as a Primary Residence?
  • Secure Financing…  Set a budget that right for you.
  • Chose the right builder…  Find a Builder that you can trust.
  • Educate yourself…  Do the research.
  • Plan then Prepare for delays…  Weather, Materials availability, shipping timing, a pandemic, there are many things that can affect your timeline…
  • Contingency Budget…  Things cost more than you think.
  • Upgrades vs Budget…  Choose your priorities to splurge and cut back on the non-essential upgrades.
  • Simplified Living… Optimize storage, but simplify to remove the extra clutter