ADUs in Indianapolis

ADUs in Indianapolis

San Diego & Indianapolis · Member since 2020 · 10 posts · 2 votes

Has anyone on here built ADUs in the Indianapolis area? I live in San Diego where ADUs are very common. We invest in Indy and I’m contemplating the idea of building ADUs at some of our properties there but wanted to see if anyone else had experience with this. I understand that variances will be required and there will be some loopholes to jump thru but I think this could be a huge value add and easy cash flow strategy. 

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Nick GiulioniPro Member
Rental Property Investor · Carmel, IN · Member since 2016 · 1k+ posts · 615 votes
3y

Hey there!

I've been exploring the idea of adding ADUs to some of my properties in Indianapolis as well. While I haven't built any ADUs personally, I've done some digging and chatted with a few investors who've gone down that path.

ADUs can definitely be a valuable addition to your properties and help boost cash flow. But, as you mentioned, there are a few hoops to jump through, like dealing with zoning regulations and getting the necessary variances. It might take some time and patience, but it can be worth it in the end. And of course, you'll want to keep an eye on construction costs to make sure the numbers work for your project.

Another thing to keep in mind is finding a property manager who's got experience with small multi-family properties. You might get more tenants with an ADU, but the rent per door could be a bit lower. Having a savvy property manager on your team can really help you get the most out of your investment.

I'd suggest chatting with local builders and contractors who've got some ADU experience under their belts. They can give you a good idea of what to expect in terms of process and costs. And don't forget to network with other investors who've added ADUs to their Indy properties—they'll have some valuable insights to share.

All in all, ADUs can be a great way to up your cash flow game and add value to your properties. Just do your homework and make sure you've got a solid plan in place.

If you have any more questions or want some tips on real estate investing in Indianapolis, feel free to reach out! Always happy to help out fellow investors. Good luck with your ventures!

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  • Nick GiulioniPro Member
    Rental Property Investor · Carmel, IN · Member since 2016 · 1k+ posts · 615 votes
    3y

    Hey there!

    I've been exploring the idea of adding ADUs to some of my properties in Indianapolis as well. While I haven't built any ADUs personally, I've done some digging and chatted with a few investors who've gone down that path.

    ADUs can definitely be a valuable addition to your properties and help boost cash flow. But, as you mentioned, there are a few hoops to jump through, like dealing with zoning regulations and getting the necessary variances. It might take some time and patience, but it can be worth it in the end. And of course, you'll want to keep an eye on construction costs to make sure the numbers work for your project.

    Another thing to keep in mind is finding a property manager who's got experience with small multi-family properties. You might get more tenants with an ADU, but the rent per door could be a bit lower. Having a savvy property manager on your team can really help you get the most out of your investment.

    I'd suggest chatting with local builders and contractors who've got some ADU experience under their belts. They can give you a good idea of what to expect in terms of process and costs. And don't forget to network with other investors who've added ADUs to their Indy properties—they'll have some valuable insights to share.

    All in all, ADUs can be a great way to up your cash flow game and add value to your properties. Just do your homework and make sure you've got a solid plan in place.

    If you have any more questions or want some tips on real estate investing in Indianapolis, feel free to reach out! Always happy to help out fellow investors. Good luck with your ventures!

  • Flipper/Rehabber · Indianapolis, IN · Member since 2015 · 28 posts · 21 votes
    3y

    Hey @Guy East I have built a few carriage houses for investors and homeowners alike. If you end up going that route feel free to keep my name handy and reach out if you'd like a quote from my construction team.

    Thanks!

  • Ryan RomingerBusiness Member
    Real Estate Broker · Indianapolis, IN · Member since 2018 · 340 posts · 144 votes
    3y

    Hello Guy, 

    Adding an ADU can be a great idea, It is important to check local zoning laws. ADU's are not as common in Indianapolis, We work with several contractors that have some experience with this and would love to connect with you to discuss this.

    Intrigue Real Estate & Property Management4.6272 Reviews
  • Property Manager · Indianapolis, IN · Member since 2022 · 150 posts · 59 votes
    3y

    I own property in Indianapolis that have ADU's and manage others that have them as well. Can be a great addition to an investment! As stated above, just have to make sure the zoning is correct etc. Feel free to reach out if I can answer any additional questions you have .

    • Fishers, IN · Member since 2016 · 18 posts · 5 votes
      10mo
      Quote from @Mark Jones:

      I own property in Indianapolis that have ADU's and manage others that have them as well. Can be a great addition to an investment! As stated above, just have to make sure the zoning is correct etc. Feel free to reach out if I can answer any additional questions you have .


       It is next door to a duplex and several multi family homes around, so I'm good withe zoning.  Just don't want to live on the property if I do that.  Thanks!

  • Fishers, IN · Member since 2016 · 18 posts · 5 votes
    10mo

    Does Indianapolis allow property owners to turn detached garages into ADU's and rent them out if you aren't going to occupy the main dwelling nor the ADU? I have a SFH downtown close to Fountain Square with a large garage in the alleyway that I am considering turning into a small home, it's a new idea so I haven't done much research. I googled and noticed it is a requirement in some counties.

  • Josh C.Pro Member
    Property Manager · Indianapolis, IN · Member since 2010 · 1k+ posts · 1k+ votes
    10mo

    @Crystal Oneill

    The answer is probably. Depends on how it’s zoned but if actually downtown then yes.

    Good luck!

  • Fishers, IN · Member since 2016 · 18 posts · 5 votes
    10mo

    Yes, there is a duplex right next door so I think I"m good on the zoning.  Just wanted to make sure I don't have to live on the property to do this project.  Thanks!

  • Fishers, IN · Member since 2016 · 18 posts · 5 votes
    10mo

    I actually looked it up and it is zoned now as I3 which is Heavy Industrial, there are some industrial businesses surrounding the property.

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