Add Value. Add Space. Add Life.
Orlando ADU Builder
Whether for changing family needs, additional workspace, rental income, or long-term adaptability, an Accessory Dwelling Unit lets your property evolve with you. Talbot Custom Homes builds garage apartments, standalone ADUs, and in-law suites that complement your existing home — beautifully designed and built to last.
+30%
Average property value increase
15+
Years combined experience
100%
Custom design, built for the way you live
Understanding ADUs
What is an ADU – and which type is right for you
An Accessory Dwelling Unit is a secondary living space on a single-family residential lot. They come in several forms, each with its own benefits depending on your goals and your property layout.
Most popular · Our specialty
Garage Apartments
A fully self-contained living unit with one or two bedrooms, built above or alongside your existing garage — or as a brand-new detached structure. Ideal for adult children, in-laws, or rental tenants, with their own entrance, kitchen, and bathroom while staying close to your home.
Typical size: 500–1,000 sq ft
Independent living
Standalone ADU
A detached or semi-attached cottage, ideal for aging parents or family members who want proximity but value independence. Single-story, fully accessible, and designed with safety and comfort as the priorities, so families stay close while respecting everyone’s own space.
Typical size: 300–1,000 sq ft
Multigenerational living
In-Law Suites
An attached addition to your primary home with a private entrance, bedroom, kitchenette, and bathroom. The most seamlessly integrated option — sharing a wall with the main house while providing genuine privacy. It can be repurposed as a home office or rental over time.
Typical size: 300–600 sq ft
Why add an ADU
Three compelling reasons to build an ADU today
01
Property value and rental income
An ADU is one of the most effective ways to increase both the value and the performance of your property. Central Florida’s strong rental demand, driven by growth, tourism, and universities, creates consistent income potential, while a thoughtfully designed ADU strengthens the overall value of your home.
02
Multigenerational living
Florida is a top destination for retirees relocating to be near family. An ADU lets everyone stay connected without sacrificing independence. For aging parents, it offers a private, comfortable space just steps away, designed for dignity and autonomy. For adult children, it offers a transition space to build independence while staying rooted at home.
03
Flexible space
The most valuable spaces are the ones that serve more than one purpose. Your ADU can function as a guest retreat, a private home office, a creative studio, or extra living space, then evolve as your needs change. What begins as a workspace can become a rental; what serves as a guest suite today can support a family tomorrow.
Quality that matches your primary home
A Talbot Custom Homes ADU is built to the same uncompromising standard as our custom homes. We apply the same care, craftsmanship, and attention to detail so your ADU matches the architectural style, materials, and finish level of your existing home, a thoughtfully integrated structure that feels like an original part of your residence.
From the initial design concept through permitting, foundation, framing, systems, and final finish—our dedicated team manages every step and keeps you updated along the way.
Beyond our deep knowledge of building codes for Orange, Osceola, Seminole, and surrounding counties, we navigate Florida ADU regulations and handle your HOA submissions, so you don’t have to.
A closer look at our ADU work
Garage apartments, standalone cottages, and in-law suites we have designed and built across Central Florida.
Common questions
ADU FAQs for Florida homeowners
Everything you need to know before starting your ADU project in Central Florida.
Do I need a permit to build an ADU in Florida?
Yes — all ADU construction in Florida requires permits from your local county or municipality. Orange County, Osceola County, Seminole County, and the City of Orlando each have their own zoning ordinances. Talbot Custom Homes handles the entire permitting process on your behalf.
How much does it cost to build an ADU in Orlando?
ADU costs in Central Florida typically range from $220K to $300K and up, depending on size, design complexity, finish level, and site-specific factors. We provide transparent, itemized pricing in a fixed-price contract structured around your needs and your budget.
How long does it take to build a garage apartment or ADU?
Most of our ADU projects in Central Florida take 9 to 12 months from the start of pre-construction to move-in. Permitting alone can take 8 to 16 weeks. Once construction begins, a straightforward garage apartment typically takes 6 to 9 months to complete.
Are there restrictions on renting out my ADU in Florida?
Florida is one of the more ADU-friendly states in the country. That said, local HOA rules, short-term rental ordinances, and county-specific regulations can affect what you are permitted to do. We review your HOA documents and local zoning codes with you before moving forward with the project.
Can I build an ADU if I already have a garage?
Absolutely. Many of our most popular projects involve building above an existing detached garage, expanding a garage to support an ADU above it, or constructing a new detached garage with a living unit above. During our discovery process, we assess your property and present the most practical options.
Serving Greater Orlando
We build ADUs, garage apartments, and in-law suites throughout Central Florida.
Ready to add an ADU to your property?
We will assess your property, walk through the options, and give you a clear picture of what is possible. No pressure, no obligation, just a guided conversation about your goals.