Garage Conversion vs. Detached ADU: Which is Right for You?

In St. Petersburg's historic neighborhoods like Old Northeast and Kenwood, homeowners often face a dilemma: "Do I sacrifice my car storage to convert the garage, or do I build a brand new cottage in the backyard?"

Both options add incredible value, but they serve different goals. Here is the breakdown from a builder's perspective.

The Comparison at a Glance

1. The Garage Conversion

The Pro: Speed and Efficiency. The roof, walls, and foundation are already there. You are mostly paying for "finishes" (drywall, floors, AC) and systems (plumbing/electric).

The Con: The "Step Down". Most garages are lower than the main house. To do it right, we often need to build up the sub-floor to match the house level and insulate against ground moisture, which eats into your ceiling height.

2. The Detached Cottage (New Build)

The Pro: Total Design Freedom. You can build a 12ft vaulted ceiling, a full chef's kitchen, and a separate bedroom. This attracts premium "Executive" tenants staying for months at a time.

The Con: Site Work. You must trench new sewer lines, pour a new foundation, and meet rigorous 2024 hurricane codes (Impact Windows, Structural Engineering). It is a major construction project.

The Verdict

Choose the Garage Conversion if: You want fast cash flow (Airbnb) with minimal upfront investment and don't care about losing parking.

Choose the Detached Build if: You want a long-term "In-Law Suite" for family or want to maximize the appraisal value of your estate.