MINDFUL
CONSTRUCTION
A detached ADU in a Colorado backyard

Colorado's Accessory Dwelling Unit Builders

High quality, affordable construction.

What We Build

We specialize in accessory dwelling units (ADUs) designed in sizes that meet zoning requirements and layouts that are in high demand. Whether creating a home for aging parents or to generate rental income, our goal is to transform your property into a valuable investment with beautifully functional extra living space.

Detached ADUs

Attached ADUs

Garage Conversions

Studios + Offices

Our Process - Planning to Completion

Building an ADU in Colorado comes with numerous complexities, such as zoning ordinances and permitting. At Little Home Builder, we specialize in only ADUs and manage the entire process, saving homeowners time and money.

Property & Site Assessment

We start by visiting your site to determine ADU feasibility.  We‘ll provide guidance on local zoning codes and site allowances, and unravel the complexities of county, city and neighborhood requirements. We’ll provide an estimate that details all costs. 

Design & Permitting

Choose one of our pre-reviewed floor plans, and customize with our architectural team to infuse your personal touch. All plans include site and unit engineering, as well as electrical, mechanical, and plumbing layouts required for LHB to secure the necessary permits.

Build

Our licensed Colorado General Contractor and local trades team will handle the build onsite from start to finish. We keep homeowners informed with regular progress updates and walk throughs.

Warranty

Our 7-year structural warranty, plus 1 year workmanship and appliance warranties provide peace of mind so you can enjoy your ADU for years to come.

Ariel view of a construction site

Stick Built Quality Construction

Stick-built ADUs are constructed the same way your house was built with craftsmanship and based on today’s building code. It’s clear what you’re getting when you build in the traditional way. Lenders are comfortable with the building method and should have no issue providing financing. Appraisers will have no issue evaluating this structure when it’s time to sell or refinance. Once the plan is permitted, you can be confident it was designed to Colorado’s efficiency standards and to withstand Colorado weather.

Build Time

Our standard building timeline right now is about four to eight months from design and permitting to completion. The most variable part of the total timeline is permitting and each city varies in terms of process. Contact us today to discuss your specific ADU project and timeline.

Cost

Pricing will vary depending on the size and features of the ADU. Our pricing includes foundation, construction, elevation, finishes, design and engineering, permit submission and more. The variable costs that are not included are permit fees from the city or county and hookup fees. When we deliver an estimate, it will include a breakdown of all costs, including the variables so that you understand your total investment.

Financing

Financing options for building an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) in Colorado can include personal savings, home equity loans, or lines of credit. Some homeowners opt for ADU specific financing programs (check out our partner) and some local government and nonprofit organizations may provide low-interest loans, grants or incentives to promote ADU construction. 

ADU FAQs

An accessory dwelling unit (ADU) is a secondary housing unit located on the same property as the primary residence, typically requiring its own entrance, kitchen, living space and bathroom facilities. Sometimes referred to as granny flats, cottages or studios, ADUs can take various forms including converted garages, basement apartments or standalone cottages.

In the beautiful landscapes of Colorado a tiny home or ADU is indeed possible. Recent years have seen a shift towards embracing these sustainable, efficient spaces, with legislation easing to accommodate the growing tiny home movement. However, it’s crucial to remember that the feasibility of building such a dwelling on your property hinges upon the specific zoning regulations of your county. Each region has its unique rules and restrictions, making it essential to check with local authorities before embarking on your journey.

Fortunately, organizations like Tiny Home Builders are equipped to guide you through this process, helping you understand what’s possible in your area. 

In Colorado, Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) are a welcomed addition to housing options. Colorado law permits ADUs, provided certain criteria are met. These additional living quarters, often referred to as “carriage homes” or “mother-in-law apartments,” are allowed across various residential, agricultural, and mixed-use neighborhood zone districts. 

While each ADU must include a kitchen, bath, and sleeping area, they aren’t considered separate properties that can be sold independently. Each region in Colorado may have its own specific rules and restrictions, including the requirement for a pre-application meeting to discuss the size of the ADU. This underscores the importance of checking with local planning authorities before beginning your ADU journey.

In Colorado, accessory dwelling units (ADUs) can typically be placed in residential zones on the same property as a primary residence. They are commonly allowed in the backyard, as long as they meet setback requirements and adhere to local zoning regulations. At Little Home Builders, we are your full-service team- handling the research, planning, permitting and construction to ensure a compliant ADU.

Modular and prefab ADUs are factory manufactured units or panels that are delivered to the property in-tact. Often fully modular units will encounter challenges with financing and appraisals as they are not generally considered real estate.

Prefab units are an efficient solution, however, in addition to the unit price, additional costs that need to be understood include sales tax, shipping, site work, foundation, permitting and taps for sewer, water, electrical and gas, as well as crane installation. A side-by-side cost comparison usually reveals a comparable total investment for stick-built and prefab ADUs.

Building an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) begins with an initial consultation to understand your goals, assess your property and discuss options. The next step involves design and plans, translating your vision into a tangible blueprint. This leads us to the crucial phase of securing permits, navigating the complexities of regulations to ensure compliance. Finally, the building process commences.

For those in Colorado, Little Home Builders provides full-service project management from start to finish, simplifying the path to owning your own ADU. 

Building ADUs Across Colorado

Ready to get started on your tiny home dreams? Want to find out where we serve? Learn more about our ADU services in your area today!

See our insights

Check out our blog with tips and guides about how these fantastic additions work. Want to learn about tiny homes, too? We have that, too!

Tiny Home Builder in Colorado

Welcome to Little Home Builder, your premier tiny home builder in Colorado. Led by native Coloradan and founder Christy Silva, our team is dedicated to providing affordable and innovative ADU solutions that address the pressing need for housing in our communities. With expertise in Colorado’s zoning laws and building regulations, we efficiently navigate the permitting process, ensuring a smooth experience for our clients. Our custom-designed ADUs are built with quality craftsmanship, sustainability, and your unique preferences in mind. We prioritize eco-friendly practices and materials, contributing to a greener Colorado. Timely delivery is our commitment, completing projects within agreed-upon timelines to minimize disruption to your daily life. Choose Little Home Builder as your trusted partner in creating a cozy, functional, and affordable living space tailored to your needs. Experience the difference with us today.