Accessory Dwelling Units: What Réal Hazen Construction Offers
Réal Hazen Construction is a general contractor and homebuilder that has developed hands-on experience building accessory dwelling units (ADUs) for homeowners in Vermont and New Hampshire. ADUs are additional living spaces added to a single-family lot — they can be attached, such as in a basement, attic, or unused portion of a home, or detached, like a converted barn or a new standalone structure.
As an ADU builder, Réal Hazen Construction has completed multiple projects, including a detached ADU above a garage in Bradford, VT, a 1,000 sq ft detached ADU in Orford, NH used as a guest house, and a converted horse barn also in Bradford, VT. Homeowners typically pursue ADUs for one of three reasons:
- To generate rental income from the unit
- To provide housing for a family member who wants to live nearby
- To offer guests a private, self-contained space
How Much Does an ADU Cost?
Costs vary depending on the existing conditions of the property and the level of finishes selected. Based on recent projects, here is a general range:
Attached ADUs: $100,000 – $250,000
- Lower end: existing utilities are sufficient, no exterior work needed, framing is in good condition, and space is already insulated
- Higher end: septic and water capacity upgrades, siding, roofing, and structural reframing such as adding a dormer
Detached ADUs: $200,000 – $350,000+
- Lower end: simpler layouts, smaller footprints, and straightforward product selections like vinyl siding and LVP flooring
- Higher end: larger or more custom structures with more complex finishes
Each project is unique, and pricing depends heavily on site-specific factors. Réal Hazen Construction can discuss project details and provide more tailored pricing on a case-by-case basis.
The Design and Build Process
Before any on-site work begins, Réal Hazen Construction works through several pre-construction steps. These typically include drafting floor plans and elevations, developing a scope of work, creating a detailed budget, and obtaining the necessary zoning and construction permits. The first three steps can generally be completed within two weeks. Permitting timelines vary by town and can sometimes be completed in under a week.
Drafting construction plans is an important part of the process. Réal Hazen Construction has in-house drafting capabilities and also collaborates with local architects to make the best use of available space. Key planning elements include window and door sizing, kitchen and bath layout, lighting plans, and placement of mechanical systems. Thoughtful planning at this stage — such as establishing wet walls for plumbing stacks — can reduce labor and material costs during construction.
A scope of work is developed to align on the project vision before construction begins. This covers specifications for windows and doors, which areas remain untouched, lighting and plumbing fixture selections, and the insulation package.
Once plans and scope are in place, a detailed budget is assembled. As general contractors, Réal Hazen Construction works with a network of subcontractors covering plumbing, electrical, insulation, and site work. All framing and finish carpentry is handled directly by their own crew, allowing for accurate in-house labor and material estimates.
During construction, Réal Hazen Construction typically has two to four crew members on site daily. Depending on project size, construction runs between two and four months. Homeowners can expect regular communication throughout the build.