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Are you a homeowner in Georgia looking to maximize the potential of your property? Whether you have a unit over your garage, a detached guest house, or a basement unit, an accessory unit can be a fantastic way to add value and functionality to your home. We understand the unique opportunities and challenges that come with accessory units, especially when they are not fully compliant with local zoning laws. Here’s everything you need to know about incorporating an illegal accessory unit into your primary single-unit property.
What is an Accessory Unit?
An accessory unit, often referred to as an accessory dwelling unit (ADU), is a secondary housing unit on a single-family residential lot. These units can take various forms, such as a converted basement, a unit above a garage, or a detached guest house. The key requirement is that the accessory unit must contain both a kitchen and a bathroom.
Eligibility Criteria for Accessory Units
To ensure that your accessory unit meets the necessary criteria, here are some important guidelines:
1. Primary Single-Unit Property: The subject property must be a primary single-unit residence. Properties with 2-4 units are not eligible.
2. Size and Inferiority: The accessory unit must be inferior in square footage compared to the main residence. This ensures that the primary unit remains the dominant feature of the property.
3. Zoning and Appraisal: The highest and best use of the property, including the accessory unit, is determined by the appraiser and local zoning laws. This step is crucial to ensure that the property complies with local regulations and maximizes its market value.
4. One Unit Per Property: Only one accessory unit is allowed per subject property. This limitation helps maintain the residential character of the neighborhood
Legal vs. Illegal Accessory Units
The distinction between legal and illegal accessory units is significant when it comes to appraisals and marketability:
– Legal Accessory Units: If your accessory unit is legal, only one sales comparable is required. The appraiser can use an older comparable to justify the marketability of the unit.
– Illegal Accessory Units: If the accessory unit is illegal, two sales comparables are required to demonstrate marketability. Additionally, the appraiser must state that the accessory unit does not affect hazard insurance claims. This extra step ensures that the presence of the illegal unit does not pose additional risks to the property.
Maximizing Your Property’s Potential
Adding an accessory unit to your property can significantly enhance its value and utility. Whether you’re looking to create additional living space for family members, generate rental income, or simply increase the overall value of your home, an accessory unit can be a smart investment.
Incorporating an accessory unit into your primary single-unit property in Georgia can be a rewarding endeavor, provided you adhere to the necessary guidelines and regulations. Whether your unit is legal or illegal, understanding the appraisal and marketability requirements is crucial to making the most of this opportunity.
Contact us to learn more about how we can assist you in unlocking the full potential of your property with an accessory unit.
