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ADUs also provide non-financial value through housing flexibility for family members, home offices, or personal use. Properties with legal, permitted ADUs command higher prices than those with unpermitted construction. ADU construction timelines range from 4-12 months depending on type and local permit processing.

By ordinance, A jurisdiction may establish minimum and maximum unit size

Add minimalist furniture in contrast to white walls and natural wood with ample natural light. A prefabricated unit is the perfect choice for someone who wants to save time and money while creating their dream home. When selecting the best prefab ADUs, I narrowed down the options to the ones we were considering. Want to know how adding an ADU could impact the sale of your home?

Accessory Dwelling Unit ADU Construction Guide for 2026

I just wrapped up an ADU project with Go ADU, and I’ve got to say, I’m really happy with how it turned out. They kept the site super clean, which isn’t always the case with contractors. There were a couple of hiccups, but they were quick to let me know and always had a plan to keep things moving.The final result looks great—exactly what I was hoping for. I hired Go ADU Construction to build an ADU for us, it just got completed. They finished the job within the exact time frame that they promised. Experience a personalized approach to ADU construction with GO ADU.

Villa Homes is the largest ADU builder in California, offering 15-floor plans with customizable interior finishes. Well, for starters, most households in the United States are now 1 and 2 person households. Yet, most of our legacy housing stock, and even our new residential housing stock, is designed for families of 4 or 5 people. While their structural forms vary, ADUs share many common traits and face similar design and development challenges.

• You can move here to stay in proximity with your family as well as have independence.
• Detached new construction ADUs cost $150,000-$300,000+ depending on size and finishes.
• Add unique architectural details and some modern upgrades to your ADU design ideas.
• Characteristics include gabled roofs, wide front porches, and exposed wooden beams.
• Attached ADUs share at least one wall with the main house, reducing costs ($100,000-$200,000) since they use existing foundation and utilities more easily.
• ADUs also have some other distinguishing characteristics that help further define, differentiate, and distinguish them from other housing types.
• We have personally experienced the life-changing impact of Accessory Dwelling Units, inspiring us to share these benefits with our valued clients.
• Get detailed bids from at least three contractors based on identical plans and specifications.
• But, in the case of building habitable living space, you’re always required to obtain a building permit.
• Beyond direct value increase, ADUs make properties more desirable—they sell faster and attract more buyers than comparable homes without ADUs.
• Industrial ADUs often have open floor plans, high ceilings, and large windows, creating a spacious and airy feel.
• We offer transparent pricing and detailed estimates after an initial consultation to help you budget effectively.
• The Alon 240 is a compact ADU measuring 240 square feet, with dimensions of 20 feet by 12 feet.
• Availability and funding rounds can change—so we treat this as a “check current status” item during planning.

Ingenuity Construction Group

Garage conversions take shortest at 4-6 months since the structure exists. Site-built detached ADUs require 6-10 months including design (4-8 weeks), permits (2-12 weeks), and construction (4-7 months). Prefab or modular ADUs reduce timelines to 3-6 months through factory construction, though site prep and permits still take time. Cities with streamlined ADU permitting processes significantly accelerate timelines.

What is considered an accessory unit?

Our experts create a plan that fits your needs while handling approvals. Add intricately patterned tiles and textiles with some hanging lanterns. This exotic and vibrant design for your ADU will create a pretty Moroccan décor for your place. Create an A-frame roof and add wooden interiors with a stone fireplace.

This will add a touch of sleek and sophisticated city ambiance to your place. Add sliding Shoji screens, tatami mats, and a mini Zen garden space to your ADU design ideas. These will add a peaceful and tranquil ambiance to your space with natural and appealing elements. Backyard prefab ADUs are a fantastic way to increase cash flow, create housing in urban areas, house a family member, create an in-law suite, or create a home office.

This option caught my attention because I’ve got a bit of a flipper in me. Of course, I know I’d have to hire a local contractor for at least some of the work. I’m a total sucker for a shed-type roof with transom windows, you know? The dark sections represent the percent of one person households in 2014.

An ADU Can Make Life Better. The Wrong Contractor Can Make It Worse.

He understood our point of view, was knowledge and helpful, and got the ADU finished and permitted. Once the design is finalized, we handle all paperwork and obtain necessary permits from the city. We coordinate the planning for water, power, sewer/septic, and delivery access—so the ADU can actually be installed and connected correctly. Award-winning Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) tools and resources to advance housing in your community. A GIS-based mapping tool that looks up addresses and displays property and ADU rules information. A turnkey solution to display and manage your jurisdiction’s pre-approved plans program.

ADUs for Multi-Generational Use, Income Property and Guest Homes

Check out the statistics to get an idea of how the numbers vary in America’s biggest cities. New ADU builders are joining the ADU market daily to meet the demand for this small structure. This impressive ADU builder offers instant home installation within 30 days, following a comprehensive “Soup-to-Nuts” approach.

In high-demand rental markets, ADUs can be a significant financial boon. ADUs are known by many names, including granny flats, in-law suites, backyard cottages, and secondary suites. They offer a flexible housing solution for a variety of needs, from accommodating family members to generating rental income. These options provide the perfect solution for those looking for a quick and efficient way to add living space to their backyard.

Cash-out refinancing replaces your existing mortgage with a larger one, taking the difference in cash. Some cities and states offer ADU-specific loan programs—check with your local housing authority. Specializing in new construction projects across California, Adusolutionsla offers tailored building solutions that prioritize craftsmanship and durability. We work with clients from concept to completion to ensure your vision becomes reality.

• When selecting the best prefab ADUs, I narrowed down the options to the ones we were considering.
• Prefabricated or modular ADUs are built in factories then delivered to your site mostly complete.
• At Adu Solutions La, we specialize in high-quality new construction tailored to the way you live.
• ADUs are defined by the fact that they’re a type of housing unit—NOT a standardized structural form.
• Use terracotta tiles with Adobe walls and some cactus plants for a desert-like look.
• Use fiberglass or acrylic tub/shower surrounds—one-piece units eliminate leak-prone seams.
• ADU permits include building, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical permits.
• I’m a long time real estate investor and I’ve worked with at least a dozen contractors.
• We help you understand what’s needed so you don’t get stuck mid-process.
• ADUs typically increase property values by 20-30%, often exceeding construction costs and creating immediate equity.
• We coordinate with your contractor and builders so the process in southern california stays on budget, code compliant, and easy to navigate.
• ADUs need water, sewer/septic, electricity, and heating/cooling like any residence.
• Vinyl siding at $3-$8 per square foot costs less with minimal upkeep.
• These will add a luxurious and posh touch to the ADU spaces, adding to the overall aesthetics of the same.
• Some cities and states offer ADU-specific loan programs—check with your local housing authority.

An ADU contractor and an ADU builder often overlap in their roles, but there are slight distinctions. They work closely with homeowners to ensure compliance with permits and other regulations. I’m a long time real estate investor and I’ve worked with at least a dozen contractors. Communication was superb — clear, realistic timelines and constant updates with photos. He and is team were highly skilled in understanding the nuances of my project. I’m thrilled with the final product and will absolutely be using GoADU again for my next project.

From initial design concepts to permits, construction, and financing, we offer a seamless, all-in-one solution customized to your needs. With owner involvement at every stage, your project is in caring and capable hands. We help you choose an ADU layout that fits your property, budget, and goals (rental, family, office). High-quality construction, completed on time—so you can enjoy your new space sooner.

Setback requirements control how close ADUs can be to property lines—typically 5-10 feet from side and rear lines. Many cities eliminated parking requirements for ADUs to encourage construction. Some areas require owner-occupancy (owner lives on-site), though this is being eliminated in many communities. Yes, most areas allow ADU rentals, making them popular for generating supplemental income. ADU rental income typically ranges from $1,200-$3,000+ monthly depending on location, size, and finishes. Check local regulations—some cities have owner-occupancy requirements mandating you live in either the main house or ADU (not both rented).

Why Choose ADU Express?

One of the things that impressed me most was the cleanliness of their worksite. Their attention to detail and commitment to a clean workspace made the entire process a breeze. We are a family-owned and operated company with a passion for ADU planning and construction, serving the Los Angeles community since 2017. We have personally experienced the life-changing impact of Accessory Dwelling Units, inspiring us to share these benefits with our valued clients.

What is an ADU: Accessory Dwelling Units explained

Some residents in California have reported a property value increase of up to 20-35% after adding an ADU to their property. In my research, I found seven of the best prefab ADUs that balance customization and cost-savings. There are so many ideas to turn your small structure into a fabulous space. They can practically back up to your backyard and drop the house off.

• This keeps adu services focused on real outcomes for homeowners in california, with builders and a contractor aligned on scope, schedule, and quality.
• Costs run highest ($150,000-$300,000+) due to complete new construction, but rental potential and property value increase justify the investment.
• Whether it’s accommodating aging parents, providing a space for adult children, or generating rental income, ADUs offer a flexible housing solution.
• Partnering with a company like HOMEPLEX ensures compliance with local codes.
• Characteristics include gabled roofs, wide front porches, and exposed wooden beams.
• This will give a unique blend of urban spaces and industrial elegance to your ADU space.
• The Dwellito ADU company offers prefab ADU or site-built options, providing a wide range of ADU plans in a convenient do-it-for-me (DIFM) service.
• We help you connect the dots so the project stays coordinated from concept to move-in.
• It’s a self-contained living space located on the same plot as the primary residence.
• The eclectic and colorful choices will give a vibrant bohemian yet relaxing ambiance to your ADU spaces.
• Industrial ADUs often have open floor plans, high ceilings, and large windows, creating a spacious and airy feel.

General contractors experienced with ADUs understand the unique challenges of small-scale construction, local regulations, and efficient space planning. Look for contractors who’ve built multiple ADUs and can provide references from recent projects. Ask to visit completed ADUs they’ve built—this reveals quality and design creativity. ADU construction requires attention to detail that some large home builders don’t provide.

The style is characterized by a seamless flow between indoor and outdoor spaces, often incorporating outdoor patios and large sliding glass doors. Your property has untapped potential—unlock it with ADU Express. We specialize in fast, high-quality ADU construction, helping homeowners maximize their space and generate additional income. Whether you’re looking for rental revenue, a home for family, or increased property value, we deliver custom ADUs quickly and efficiently.

ADUs typically increase property values by 20-30%, often exceeding construction costs and creating immediate equity. A $150,000 ADU might add $180,000-$250,000 to property value depending on location and rental market strength. Beyond direct value increase, ADUs make properties more desirable—they sell faster and attract more buyers than comparable homes without ADUs. Rental income provides ongoing returns, with well-located ADUs often generating 5-8% annual returns on construction costs.

Cluster wet areas (kitchen and bathroom) together sharing plumbing walls to minimize costs. Place bedrooms away from kitchen/living spaces for noise control. Consider your intended use—rental ADUs need durable finishes and clear separation from the main house, while spaces for family members might connect more openly. Universal design features like no-step entries and wider doorways add future flexibility. An adu builder converts adu designs into buildable drawings, then sequences additions or renovation stages that satisfy california codes. We lock specs for kitchen, bathroom, bedrooms, and room sizes by sqft, confirm building details, and coordinate a contractor plus contractors for consistent quality.

• Building in California, Seattle, or Boston costs significantly more than building in Texas, Arizona, or the Midwest.
• Ideally, this plan would be perfect for a Murphy Bed to take advantage of the small footprint.
• The increase in demand for these small structures is coming from all directions, especially if you are unwilling to convert an attached garage into a living space.
• Add options like large windows, balconies, or attached decks to your ADU design ideas.
• Award-winning tools and resources to help jurisdictions meet state requirements, exceed goals, and advance Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs).
• Only 38% of the nation’s households have more than 3 or more people in them.
• We manage all aspects of your project to ensure the new ADU suits your immediate needs and long term goals.
• Get written quotes for any changes including cost and schedule impacts before approving.
• There are notable distinctions between prefab and stick-built options.
• Add large windows for ocean views and create a serene and airy coastal theme for your place.
• Today’s ADUs can be outfitted with sustainable features such as solar panels, LED lighting, and Energy Star appliances.
• Instead of buying a new property, adding an ADU to an existing lot can create additional living space at a fraction of the cost.
• Add large windows to blend contemporary and rustic touches in your ADU spaces.

An Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is a secondary housing unit on a single-family residential lot. ADUs provide additional living space, increase property value, and offer rental income opportunities. Location dramatically impacts pricing—California and Pacific Northwest costs run % higher than Midwest or Southern states. Prefab ADUs may reduce costs by 10-25% versus site-built construction. Budget an additional 10-15% for contingencies, plus permit fees ($3,000-$15,000) and utility connections ($5,000-$20,000). Final costs depend on size, finishes, local labor rates, and site conditions.

Detached: Multifamily lots qualify for two detached, new construction ADUs

1-2 person households now represent 62% of the country’s households. Only 38% of the nation’s households have more than 3 or more people in them. Some cities are bringing this shadow form of housing into the light by design. Portland, Oregon, is the de facto leader in the US for this particular type of infill housing.

Understand which changes are necessary (surprise site conditions, code requirements) versus nice-to-haves you can defer. Our projects are designed with long-term value in mind, ensuring your investment appreciates over time. We pay meticulous attention to detail and durability to provide homes that stand the test of time. As a family-operated business, Adusolutionsla values integrity, quality, and community. We are committed to building high-quality, long-lasting structures that enhance your property’s value and serve your family’s needs for generations. ADU offers four ready-to-go designs, along with fully custom options.

• An adu builder converts adu designs into buildable drawings, then sequences additions or renovation stages that satisfy california codes.
• We are your trusted partner for high-quality, custom ADUs in the greater Los Angeles area.
• Some prefab companies provide turnkey service managing everything, while others just deliver modules leaving you to coordinate foundation, utilities, and permits.
• Get written quotes for any changes including cost and schedule impacts before approving.
• There are notable distinctions between prefab and stick-built options.
• With a family-operated approach and a dedication to excellence, we offer the best value for your investment.
• An ADU builder, on the other hand, is typically more involved in the hands-on process of physically constructing the ADU or accessory dwelling unit.
• Research prefab manufacturers carefully—visit completed installations, talk to past customers, and verify warranty terms.
• The solar-paneled PowerPatio will give power to the integrated lighting and other electric appliances.
• Cash-out refinancing replaces your existing mortgage with a larger one, taking the difference in cash.
• The base unit starts at $105,500, plus site prep is estimated to be under $130,000.
• Portland, Oregon, is the de facto leader in the US for this particular type of infill housing.
• Add large windows to blend contemporary and rustic touches in your ADU spaces.

Backyard Landscaping Ideas

Keep plumbing runs short by clustering kitchen and bathroom together. Install shut-off valves for the ADU separate from the main house so you can service each independently. Need to estimate costs for your rental property construction project? Our construction calculators give you instant estimates in seconds. Browse our full collection of online calculators covering materials, labor, budgets, and all your ADU building needs. Hiring Go ADU for my project was finding a gem in a sea of contractors.

Was it literally just the oven and kitchen sink that weren’t permitted? These nuances are important to understanding how significant the zoning and building code violations actually are. We’ll talk about how much they cost to build, how to pay for them, and the return on investment. Finally, we’ll review the entire step-by-step process to ADU development from start to finish.

Construction

With a passion for innovative design and expert craftsmanship, we make the ADU process seamless—from concept to completion. Our ADUs are designed to increase rental income and long-term property value. Whether you’re converting an existing structure or building a new one, Maxable can guide you through everystep. Being an affordable option and a versatile and flexible structure for homeowners, the demand for ADUs has increased substantially.

A JADU (Junior ADU) is typically smaller and often created within the existing home footprint (rules vary). If you’re deciding between an ADU and JADU, we can help you compare tradeoffs based on your goals. We help you connect the dots so the project stays coordinated from concept to move-in. Our expert team of designers and builders handles everything from planning to construction. Use simple furnishings with neutral colors and a mix of natural materials. The modern design will give a minimal and contemporary vibe to your ADU spaces.

Prefabricated or modular ADUs are built in factories then delivered to your site mostly complete. This reduces construction time from 6-10 months to 3-6 months and can save 10-25% versus site-built construction through factory efficiency. Total costs may equal site-built, but faster timelines and predictable pricing provide value. An 800 square foot ADU costs 30-40% less than a 1,200 square foot version, but you still need a full kitchen and bathroom either way.

Need Help With a Construction Project?

Craftsman-style ADUs are known for their attention to detail and use of natural materials. Characteristics include gabled roofs, wide front porches, and exposed wooden beams. Interiors typically feature built-in furniture, hardwood floors, and detailed moldings, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. California has offered the CalHFA ADU Grant Program (up to $40,000) to reimburse certain pre-development costs (design, permits, site prep, etc.). Availability and funding rounds can change—so we treat this as a “check current status” item during planning. At ADU Express, we specialize in designing and building high-quality ADUs that maximize space, value, and functionality.

Attached ADUs work well for multigenerational living or when you want proximity to tenants. They offer less privacy than detached options and may require soundproofing between units. Contemporary ADUs focus on current trends and often incorporate cutting-edge technology and materials. These units might include energy-efficient appliances, smart home systems, and eco-friendly building practices. Contemporary designs often mix different textures and materials, such as steel, glass, and wood, to create a dynamic and stylish living space. The modern minimalist style emphasizes clean lines, open spaces, and a lack of clutter.

Find the sweet spot where you have adequate space without paying for square footage you don’t need. Energy-efficient windows, insulation, and HVAC reduce long-term operating costs and may qualify for rebates offsetting higher upfront expenses. We provide comprehensive ADU services including planning, design, permits, construction, and final inspection. Our team handles every aspect of the project from start to finish. Mid-century modern ADUs draw inspiration from the 1950s and 1960s, emphasizing simplicity and integration with nature. These designs often feature flat planes, large glass windows, and open floor plans.

Vinyl siding at $3-$8 per square foot costs less with minimal upkeep. Use double-pane vinyl windows with Low-E coatings throughout at $300-$600 each installed. Bedrooms need egress windows meeting minimum size requirements for safety. An ADU builder, on the other hand, is typically more involved in the hands-on process of physically constructing the ADU or accessory dwelling unit.

It is legal to build a house or an inlaw suite in your backyard?

Full-service assistance from design to permits and construction, ensuring a seamless and stress-free experience. Use repurposed shipping containers to give an industrial appeal to your ADU spaces. These will be aesthetically pleasing, modern, as well as eco-friendly ADU design ideas. Create a private entrance and add a pretty kitchenette to your ADU design ideas.

Adu development organizes design, construction, and renovation into clear phases. Contractors and builders forecast labor, materials, and inspections, then sequence trades so your accessory dwelling unit stays on schedule. We protect the house and property during home renovations, plan room finishes, and track average timelines. In california, this disciplined approach delivers adus with dependable sqft targets, adu designer functional bedrooms, a finished bathroom and kitchen, and reliable income potential.

What utilities does an ADU need?

They have earned the respect of many homeowners across Los Angeles, and it’s easy to see why. ADU regulations and building codes vary dramatically by city and state. Many cities limit ADU size to 50% of the main house square footage or set absolute caps (commonly 800-1,200 square feet).

How long does ADU construction take?

Tailored designs to meet your specific needs and preferences, ensuring a perfect fit for your space. Receive a hand-picked designer introduction in your area based on your budget, style, and project. Be it minimal décor or some grandiose and lavish layout, your ADU will be the best addition to your overall space. Use playful décor with bold colors and some antique and vintage furniture for a charming and timeless appeal.

Submit plans showing compliance with local ADU regulations including size limits, setbacks, height restrictions, and parking requirements. Building inspections occur at key phases—foundation, framing, rough-in, and final. You cannot legally occupy or rent an ADU without a certificate of occupancy proving code compliance.

Short-term rentals (Airbnb/VRBO) face additional restrictions in many areas. If renting long-term, follow landlord-tenant laws including proper leases, security deposit handling, and maintenance responsibilities. Screen tenants carefully, consider requiring renters insurance, and set clear expectations about property use, especially regarding the main house and yard access. Open floor plans connecting kitchen, dining, and living areas make spaces feel larger. High ceilings (9-10 feet) add volume without additional square footage.

For one thing, the fact that they’re secondary housing units on single-family residentially zoned lots puts ADUs into a unique category. ADUs also have some other distinguishing characteristics that help further define, differentiate, and distinguish them from other housing types. Get detailed bids from at least three contractors based on identical plans and specifications. The lowest bid isn’t always best—look for contractors who catch potential issues in your plans, suggest value engineering ideas, and provide clear timelines. Read online reviews but weight recent references more heavily.

• I also considered the reputation of the prefab ADU companies and the designs they already had available versus trying to customize the space.
• The Bay Area is experiencing a boom in the construction of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), and it’s not hard to see why.
• The style is characterized by a seamless flow between indoor and outdoor spaces, often incorporating outdoor patios and large sliding glass doors.
• Add high-end furniture and additional features for a comfortable stay in the ADUs.
• An illegal apartment is a synonym for an unpermitted ADU, or an informal ADU.
• Internet and cable can share the main house’s service or be separate.
• We provide comprehensive ADU services including planning, design, permits, construction, and final inspection.
• Whether that habitable living space in the backyard can be classified as a house, is another matter.
• Many cities now offer streamlined ADU permitting processes with faster review times (2-8 weeks).
• ADUs typically add 20-30% to property values while costing 10-20% of the home’s value to build, creating immediate equity.
• Our projects are designed with long-term value in mind, ensuring your investment appreciates over time.
• We model rental income scenarios for adus, align backyard layouts, and compare floor plans for bedrooms, bathroom counts, and kitchen efficiency.
• Document everything with photos, especially work that gets covered up (plumbing, electrical, framing).

Use large materials with sleek patterns for your ADU design ideas. Add large windows to blend contemporary and rustic touches in your ADU spaces. Mix files of various patterns and add some potted plants, colorful textures, and hanging chairs. The eclectic and colorful choices will give a vibrant bohemian yet relaxing ambiance to your ADU spaces. Add concrete floors, modern art patterns, and some white and black palettes to your ADU design ideas.

You get precision-engineered panels that arrive ready to assemble, along with drawings that guide the process from day one. Water heaters in ADUs should be tankless models saving space while providing unlimited hot water. They mount on walls, last longer than tank models, and save energy, costing $1,200-$3,000 installed. Include GFCI outlets in kitchen, bathroom, and outdoor areas for safety. We are your trusted partner for high-quality, custom ADUs in the greater Los Angeles area. With a family-operated approach and a dedication to excellence, we offer the best value for your investment.

Rustic designs often feature elements like exposed beams, barn doors, and vintage fixtures, making them perfect for those who love a homey, farmhouse aesthetic. If you’ve been browsing housing options recently or watching the news, you’ve probably come across the term accessory dwelling unit or ADU. Building in California, Seattle, or Boston costs significantly more than building in Texas, Arizona, or the Midwest. Urban areas with higher labor costs and stricter regulations increase expenses.

Small Backyard Ideas

Luckily, the ADU demand has created new financing products to help ordinary homeowners take advantage of the opportunity. New ADU grant programs have popped up in some areas to help encourage the projects. The H450 model measures 16 feet by 30 feet in 450 square feet. I like the openness of the floor plan, which can be utilized as an office space. Customizable units are available, including the option of a fully furnished setup. The Meka Modular ADU builders specialize in innovative construction and assembly techniques, aiming to provide enhanced value to customers.

We adhere to local building codes and regulations, using high-quality materials and skilled craftsmanship. Our experienced team conducts regular inspections to ensure every aspect of the ADU meets the highest standards of quality and safety. The cost of building an ADU depends on factors such as size, design, materials, and location.

We begin construction, bringing your ADU to life with quality craftsmanship and timely completion. We start with a free 30-minute phone consultation to discuss your project, assess your needs, and provide an initial estimate. Power, water, sewer/septic planning is where projects can stall—we help coordinate the path forward. We help you understand what’s needed so you don’t get stuck mid-process. Award-winning tools and resources to help jurisdictions meet state requirements, exceed goals, and advance Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs). Efficient processes to get your ADU built quickly without compromising on quality.

Permits and Inspections

At Adu Solutions La, we specialize in high-quality new construction tailored to the way you live. Whether it’s a custom home, an elegant guest house, or a refined rental property, we offer a fully managed, stress-free experience with meticulous attention to detail. I couldn’t be happier with the work Go ADU did on my garage conversion. They were professional, efficient, and communicated every step of the process. The finished product is stunning, and I’ve already rented it out! If you’re considering an ADU project, I highly recommend them.

Many homeowners see ADUs as a lucrative investment opportunity. By renting out the unit, owners can generate a steady stream of income. This additional revenue can help offset mortgage payments, property taxes, and maintenance costs.