The ADU Boom is Here: Governor Healey Makes Backyard ADUs Easier & Cheaper for Massachusetts Homeowners
If you’ve been dreaming of adding an in-law suite, a backyard cottage, or a rental unit to your property, there has never been a better time to build in Massachusetts with an ADU
Governor Maura Healey recently launched a groundbreaking campaign designed to make building Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) easier, faster, and significantly cheaper for homeowners across the Commonwealth. At A-Z Finish Carpentry, we are closely monitoring these updates to help you take full advantage of these new benefits.
Here is everything you need to know about the new initiative and how it affects your property.
What is Changing?
Under the Affordable Homes Act, ADUs can now be built "by-right" in single-family zoning districts statewide. This removes many of the old bureaucratic hurdles that used to make projects difficult. But the new campaign goes even further:
- Free, Pre-Approved Designs: The state is launching an "ADU Design Challenge" to create high-quality, pre-approved building plans. These designs will be available to the public at no cost, saving you thousands on architectural fees.
- New Financial Support: A new $10 million program through the Massachusetts Housing Partnership (MHP) will guide homeowners through the construction process.
- Affordable Loans: Starting in early 2026, MassHousing will offer low-interest construction loans specifically for ADUs, helping low-and-moderate-income homeowners finance their builds without needing traditional home equity financing.
Why Build an ADU Now?
The Governor’s announcement highlighted the story of the Adler family in Lexington, who built a backyard unit so they could downsize while their daughter and grandchildren moved into the main house.
Whether you need space for aging parents, housing for adult children, or a source of passive rental income, an ADU offers flexibility. And with permitting simplified, the timeline from "idea" to "move-in day" is shorter than ever.
How A-Z Finish Carpentry Can Help
While the state is making the rules easier, building a high-quality home in your backyard still requires expert craftsmanship and precise project management.
At A-Z Finish Carpentry, we specialize in turning these new opportunities into reality. We are already studying the new state guidelines to ensure your project is compliant, cost-effective, and built to last.
- We Navigate the Permits: We understand the new "by-right" laws and will handle the paperwork for you.
- We Build for Budget: We can work with the upcoming pre-approved state designs or create a custom look that matches your existing home.
- From A to Z: From the foundation to the final piece of trim, we manage the entire build.
Ready to explore your property's potential? Contact us today for a consultation. Let’s build the future of your home, together.
