With recent updates to zoning laws across Northern Virginia, building an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) has become one of the smartest investments a homeowner can make. Valor Builder specializes in designing and constructing custom backyard cottages, detached in-law suites, and secondary dwelling units.
Whether you are looking to generate passive rental income, create a private residence for aging parents, or build a dedicated home office away from the main house, our design-build team delivers turnkey ADU solutions. We handle the complex web of local zoning regulations, utility connections, and permitting.
Our ADUs are built to the same exacting standards as our custom homes. We focus on smart, space-saving designs, energy efficiency, and architectural harmony, ensuring your new backyard cottage enhances your property’s value and aesthetic appeal.
Standalone tiny homes complete with kitchens, bathrooms, and living spaces.
Transforming existing structures or building above garages for secondary living.
Accessible, comfortable designs specifically tailored for aging parents.
Durable, attractive designs optimized for the local rental market.
Standalone tiny homes complete with kitchens, bathrooms, and living spaces.
Transforming existing structures or building above garages for secondary living.
Accessible, comfortable designs specifically tailored for aging parents.
Durable, attractive designs optimized for the local rental market.
A 600 sq ft detached ADU featuring a full kitchen, bedroom, and vaulted ceilings.
A secondary dwelling unit built above a newly constructed two-car garage.
A custom backyard ADU designed with aging-in-place features and zero-step entry.
A 600 sq ft detached ADU featuring a full kitchen, bedroom, and vaulted ceilings.
A secondary dwelling unit built above a newly constructed two-car garage.
A custom backyard ADU designed with aging-in-place features and zero-step entry.
Analyzing your lot size, setbacks, and local ADU ordinances.
Creating a space-efficient floor plan that matches your main home's style.
Securing permits and planning trenching for water, sewer, and electrical tie-ins.
Pouring the foundation, framing, and building the structure.
Completing the interior with high-quality finishes ready for occupancy.
Many Northern Virginia counties (like Arlington, Alexandria, and Fairfax) have recently updated zoning laws to allow ADUs, though specific lot size and setback rules apply. We conduct a full feasibility study for your property.
Requirements vary by county but typically dictate maximum square footage (often 500-800 sq ft), height limits, and distance from property lines.
Because an ADU is essentially a small custom home requiring its own foundation, roof, kitchen, and utility trenching, costs typically start around $150,000 - $200,000+.
Yes, many homeowners build ADUs specifically for long-term rentals or Airbnb, providing significant passive income.
We typically trench and connect the ADU's plumbing and electrical to your main home's existing utility lines, though separate metering is sometimes an option.
From design and permitting to final construction, a detached ADU project generally takes 6-9 months.
Contact us today at 571-701-1800 or schedule a free consultation online.
