r/NorthernColorado • u/BensonColorado • 17h ago
Have you considered an ADU?
Also known as Casitas, Granny Flats, Backyard Cottages, or Barndominiums, ADUs are secondary housing units that can be detached or attached to the primary residence. ADU stands for accessorty dwelling unit and includes their own living, sleeping, cooking and bathroom facilities. These are distinctly different from a “duplex” in zoning, legal status, and use, but they serve similar purposes: higher density, increase home affordability and give home owners more options! It’s been a year since Colorado passed House Bill 24-1152 which, according to the Colorado Department of Local Affairs (DOLA), aims to increase the availability of affordable housing by requiring subject jurisdictions to allow at least one “ADU” on parcels in zones where single unit homes are allowed. This law applies to 67 local governments identified by their population density but any jurisdiction can opt-in to become an “ADU supportive jurisdiction.”
This past month, Colorado opened a 3rd round of applications for jurisdictions to apply to become an ADU supportive jurisdiction. Once certified as by DOLA, local governments are eligible for ADUG grants and their residents can participate in ADU Finance Programs administered by the Colorado Housing Finance Authority. Areas such as Windsor, Fort Collins, Berthoud, Boulder, Longmont, Timnath and all of Larimer County are certified ADU supportive jurisdictions. I’d really like to see Greeley and Evans on this list as ADUs benefit homeowners by allowing them to house family members or caregivers, enabling aging in place, providing flexibility for downsizing and increasing opportunities for income and wealth building. In an area like Greeley, where multi-generation living is fairly common, prices are rising and increased density is needed, why not allow this? Not everyone will take advantage but I’d rather have the option so we don’t see people living in garages or Tuff sheds (I’ve seen it). If anyone on the Greeley City Council or Planning and Zoning is reading this, here is the link to apply: https://dlg.colorado.gov/land-use-and-housing-implementation-portal.
Some amazing options are available now through builders like Lennar in Windsor and Loveland. They are offering a product called their “Next Gen” Suite floorplan, which includes attached ADU style suites for multi-generational living. For existing homes, contractors are specifically offering options for ADU build outs and container homes are becoming increasingly popular, although those meet some city ordinance hurdles. If you are interested in what an ADU could look like for you, reach out to me or contact your trusted Realtor!
1. Prairie Song, Windsor
“Next Gen” private suite
Builder: Lennar
$557,900
Example available home · 1725 Howling Drive
Lennar’s Orchid Next Gen floor plan offers a first-floor suite with a separate entrance, living area, kitchenette, bedroom, and bathroom. The advertised home has 5 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, and approximately 2,544 sq. ft.
Next Gen” Suite Example
Advertised incentive: $40,000 price reduction on the specific listing. Verify the current price, expiration, and whether the incentive is conditional.
2. Kinston at Centerra, Loveland
“Next Gen” private suite
Builder: Lennar
$544,900
Example available home · 6131 Drum Place
The Orchid plan provides the same type of private Next Gen suite, with a separate entrance and kitchenette. This is a strong option for buyers who want an independent living area for a parent or adult child.
Advertised incentive: $40,000 under Lennar’s advertised Fall Super Sale listing. Confirm the final purchase price and promotion terms with the sales office.
View Lennar’s Colorado Next Gen listings
