ADU popularity in 78723?

Question

How popular are ADUs in 78723? I am in the eastern part between Manor Rd and Springdale and I have two SF-3 lots next to each other, one of which has my house on it.  I have been thinking that if I added another house and two ADUs to my property I might see a healthy return but on the other hand I have not seen many properties with ADUs sell in the area so I am not sure if this is popular enough to justify the high construction prices associated with ADUs.

Alex G. · Answer

I’m not sure in which subdivision your home is within 78723. You may want to check deed restrictions (DRs) in your section of the subdivision to make sure they allow 2 units. With SF-3 you have a zoning that allows 2 units from the city/county stand point. However, I’ve dealt with some parts of Windsor Park where DRs didn’t allow it. A few years ago I had to cancel a contract on 3 lots zoned SF-3 that, upon further research, didn’t allow 2 units due to DRs.

Michael Bennett · Answer

Thanks Ryan. I did reach out to the development center to make sure that I could do A/B units but CoA doesn't consider deed restrictions in that judgement.

Thanks Jarrod for the insight about deed restrictions possibly already amended. Does anyone know how I would go about looking that up?

Ryan Kelly · Answer

If you want a more official answer, check with the Austin Development Assistance Center. They can tell you now if you have an opportunity to develop a second unit or ADU.

Jarrod Covey · Answer

@Michael Bennett A/B units would be the highest return on the land as it's currently zoned. Deed restrictions could slow you down if building now is the plan - but if there are ABs in lots adjacent to you, someone may of already amended them.

The need for higher density living is a glaring issue the city faces. If you see higher density zoning around you, there's a better shot the city will work with you. Nuances spread throughout that process undoubtedly will pop up with CoA.

Michael Bennett · Answer

Thanks Alex. Did you just take the deed restrictions at face value or did you look into whether their was a case to make that the deed restrictions would be ruled waived or unenforceable? I have read that deed restrictions cannot be counter to public policy. I wonder if an argument could be made that City of Austin public policy is to create affordable, denser housing.

ADU popularity in 78723?

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