ADU Adventures: Building in Your Backyard

Podcast Episode Description: The Future of ADUs – How Backyard Homes Are Reshaping Housing

The housing landscape is evolving rapidly, and Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) are leading the charge. No longer just a trendy alternative, these versatile backyard homes represent a major shift in housing, multi-generational living, and long-term property investment.

States like California, Oregon, and Washington are actively pushing for pro-A...

Protect Your ADU: Essential Maintenance Tips to Avoid Costly Repairs

Your Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is a major investment—don’t let small maintenance issues turn into expensive disasters. In this episode, we discuss why regular ADU maintenance is essential for preserving value, preventing costly repairs, and ensuring long-term durability.

Why It Matters:
ADUs are compact, meaning minor issues—like a slow leak—can escalate qu...

How to Choose the Best ADU Builder: Avoid Costly Mistakes and Find the Right Team

Choosing the right ADU builder is the most important decision in your backyard home-building journey. The right team ensures a smooth, high-quality construction process, while the wrong choice can lead to delays, budget overruns, and poor craftsmanship.

What You Need to Know Before Hiring an ADU Contractor

• Not all contractors have real ADU experience...

ADU Adventures – Funding Your ADU: Financing Options and Strategies

Wondering how to finance an ADU? In this episode of ADU Adventures: Building in Your Backyard, host James Parks breaks down the most common ways homeowners pay for their ADUs—without the financial jargon.

In this episode, we cover:
✔ How to assess your budget and plan for unexpected costs
✔ Financing options like HELOCs, home equity loans, and cash-out refi...

In this episode of ADU Adventures: Building in Your Backyard, host James  dives into one of the most exciting (and crucial) parts of the ADU process—designing a space that truly works for you. Whether you're building an ADU for family, as a rental, or for personal use, smart design choices can make all the difference between a cramped, inefficient unit and a comfortable, flexible home.

James shares key ADU design tips, includin...

ADU Adventures: Building in Your Backyard

Episode 3 – Navigating ADU Regulations

Thinking about building an ADU? Zoning laws, permits, and city regulations can be overwhelming. In this episode, James Parks explains what homeowners need to know to avoid delays, save money, and get approved faster.

What You’ll Learn:

• Key zoning and permitting rules for ADUs
• Common mistakes that slow projects down
• How pre-approved ADU plans can fast-tra...

ADU Adventures: Building in Your Backyard

Episode 2: From Vision to Reality – The ADU Journey

Building an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is an exciting opportunity, but knowing where to start can feel overwhelming. In this episode of ADU Adventures: Building in Your Backyard, I break down the entire ADU journey—from concept to completion—so you can confidently take the next steps.

Many homeowners want to build an ADU but get stuck on t...

ADU Adventures: Building in Your Backyard

Episode 1: ADUs Uncovered – What They Are and Why They Matter

If you're thinking about building an ADU but don’t know where to start, this episode is for you. In ADU Adventures: Building in Your Backyard, I explore what an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is, why it matters, and how it can transform your home and future.

I share my personal journey of discovering ADUs, building one for my fa...