What's an Accessory Dwelling Unit? They may help the housing crisis in Massachusetts
Think of them as pint-sized homes, built on the same lot as an existing home. Once upon a time, these little homes were locked down by zoning rules, you could build one, but only if a relative was moving in. Renting to anyone else? Off limits. But now, building an ADU has become much easier.
For Linda and Mark Adler of Lexington, the solution to their own personal housing crunch didn't just fall from the sky, but it did get slowly lowered from above.
Their new ADU was delivered in a couple of massive prefabricated pieces. A crane gently set them down in the side yard. Just like that, they had a brand new, two-bedroom, two-bathroom, 900 square foot home.
Part of an Accessory Dwelling Unit lifted into place with a crane.
CBS Boston
"Two big pieces, on two flatbed trucks and an enormous crane lifting both pieces over our existing house," said Mark. "Which was a little scary."
The Adlers added the ADU when their daughter and grandkids moved in. Now, they're living just steps apart, with much more room to breathe.
"For us it was an affordable solution to being close, but giving everybody space," said Linda.
About 30 miles away in Northboro, Marsha Gleason built her own ADU in the backyard of the house she once shared with her late husband.
"My new home is just perfect for me," she said. "It has allowed me to stay in my neighborhood."
Accessory Dwelling Unit in Northboro, Massachusetts.
CBS Boston
Now, her son and daughter-in-law live in the main house. Marsha's 800-square-foot home is filled with her artwork and she still hosts her friends and the occasional sleepover for her grandkids.
"I've had groups here," she said. "I can still entertain."
Accessory Dwelling Units in Massachusetts
Until recently, ADUs were nearly impossible to build in many Massachusetts towns, thanks to zoning restrictions and red tape. But that changed in August 2024 with the Affordable Homes Act.
What's new? Well, there are no more special "ADU permits." No more rules about ADU's being for "relatives only." Now, you can build an ADU that's up to 900 square feet in size. It can be inside an existing home, attached, or completely separate, as long as it has its own entrance. You can also rent out an ADU.
"We had a patchwork of regulations across Massachusetts, 351 cities and towns. Some you could build ADUs relatively easily, some you couldn't build them at all," said Ed Augustus, Secretary of Housing and Livable Communities. "Now, ADUs are one way we're tackling the housing crisis."
Augustus estimates 8,000 to 10,000 ADUs will be built in the next five years. But that's just the start. The state says Massachusetts needs about 200,000 new housing units over the next decade to truly get ahead of the crisis. ADUs are just one piece of the solution.
Before you start sketching your backyard floor plan, there are a few caveats. Property taxes may go up.
Adding an ADU increases the value of your property, and likely your tax bill. Towns can still pass rules banning ADUs from being used as Airbnbs or other short-term stays. You'll need to follow setback rules and other basics, even under the new law.
How much do ADUs cost?
Chris Lee runs Backyard ADUs, a company that builds these units off-site and installs them in a matter of months. The average price of one of his homes is around $300,000. They can run as much as $500,000. But the new laws are making ADU's more popular.
"It's getting easier," Lee said. "Vermont was the first state in New England, Maine followed, Rhode Island followed, Mass. followed and now New Hampshire just followed. Basically New England is catching up with the West Coast."
For some families, these small homes are delivering a big solution. For them, an ADU is A-OK.
For more information on the state's new rules on ADUs visit Mass.gov.
If you have a question you'd like us to look into, please email questioneverything@cbsboston.com.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Yahoo
Hayley McNeff, bodybuilding champ, dies at 37: 'Bright light has left this world'
Hayley McNeff, a prominent bodybuilder during the mid-2000s, has died unexpectedly. She was 37. McNeff died last Friday, Aug. 8, and her funeral will be held Saturday, Aug. 16, according to her obituary. A Massachusetts native, McNeff won several bodybuilding titles throughout her career, including the 2009 East Coast Classic and 2009 NPC Delaware State, according to bodybuilding website RXMuscle. "Such a bright light has left this world too soon," her obituary states. It goes on to say, "Hayley was known for her quick wit and constant sense of humor, she had a gift for making those around her laugh and feel welcomed. Her energy and determination was a constant in her life and she always accomplished what she set out to achieve. She treasured her friendships and nurtured strong, lasting relationships with those who knew her best. Hayley will be deeply missed by her parents, siblings, extended family and friends." More news: Hiker dies after venomous snake bites him at Tennessee state park McNeff was a respected figure in the bodybuilding community In the early aughts, McNeff was featured in the "Raising the Bar" documentary series, in which a film crew provided an inside look into her gym routine as she prepared for the 2009 NPC Delaware State. After winning the 2009 NPC Delaware State and 2009 East Coast Classic, McNeff was cast on the reality television show "Iron Maidens," which was pitched to follow a group of prominent female bodybuilders. However, the series never aired. McNeff attended the University of Massachusetts Amherst, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts. In addition to bodybuilding, she was an accomplished equestrian, board diver, and skier as a child and young adult, her obituary states. Following her bodybuilding career, which peaked in 2009, McNeff pursued graduate studies in psychology to better understand and help others, her obituary states. Greta Cross is a national trending reporter at USA TODAY. Story idea? Email her at gcross@ This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Bodybuilding champion Hayley McNeff dies at 37
%3Amax_bytes(150000)%3Astrip_icc()%2Ftal-a-marthas-vineyard-expert-shares-her-top-coastal-getaway-picks-tout-ffb85f5419da4c0286fcb7347bbbea52.jpg&w=3840&q=100)
Travel + Leisure
4 days ago
- Travel + Leisure
Martha's Vineyard Has an Unspoken Dress Code—Here's What a Local Recommends Wearing, From $14
The coastal island of Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts, has always been an attractive summer retreat. Pastel-colored gingerbread cottages, windswept dunes, and oak-lined streets without traffic make it a whimsical destination. For Erin Goldson, who is now based in New York City but whose family history on the island dates back four generations, the island is much more than just a summer vacation. 'The Vineyard is home. My great-grandmother was the first in my family to buy a home on the island, and my family has been coming ever since,' she says, noting that her parents met on the island, and it is where her late father is buried, as it was his happy place. 'My 98-year-old grandmother still lives there year-round,' she adds. As a lifetime Vineyarder, Goldson is always in the know with social events, community efforts, and simple pleasures like meeting with a friend for a bike ride or brunch. In fact, she recently launched the Vineyard Icon Awards, a celebration of important changemakers, from cultural leaders to public servants and innovators, all of whom have deep ties to the Vineyard and an impact that reaches far beyond it. Quintessential vineyard fashion styles were on full display at this inaugural event and will continue through the rest of the summer and into fall, as the island reaches peak tourism. When it comes to what to wear on Martha's Vineyard, Goldson encourages visitors to forget formal and embrace cozy instead. 'Vineyard style is all about ease. It's comfortable, light, and summery. Think whites, soft blues, pastels, and the occasional pop of color,' she says. 'What I love most is that you can wear a breezy dress during the day and change into a hoodie and jeans at night. It's chic without trying too hard.' I've always admired Goldson's fabulous lifestyle, so I was excited to have the opportunity to pick her brain for her 14 go-to styles to wear on the Vineyard, from flowy dresses for an al fresco dinner to a comfy skort that will suit a bike ride to the beach. One essential casual outfit that Goldson recommends for any coastal vacation is a reliable midi dress. This Quince smocked dress is made from organic cotton, so you know it will be soft and comfortable, plus it has a fun eyelet detail on the skirt. The relaxed fit and functional side pockets make this dress a versatile staple you'll wear over and over again. Coastal getaways require a cozy layer, even in the middle of August. For chillier evenings, Goldson always packs an oversized denim jacket or hoodie. 'A jean jacket is a go-to staple for when the sun goes down and it gets chilly,' says Goldson, adding that she loves watching the sun set on the lagoon where she lives. This Madewell denim jacket is a collarless option with relaxed drop shoulders for a casual fit. Light enough to wear on any summer night, it pairs well with your favorite dress or flowy pants. What's a coastal getaway without a trip to the shoreline? 'I love a full beach day with family and friends. Whether we're at State Beach, the Inkwell, or up island at Great Rock Bite, I always bring a cute beach bag and a cover-up that makes me feel pulled together,' Goldson says. The Versa Rubber Tote Bag is a perfect option for anyone who is looking for a fashionable, spacious bag. The waterproof and washable tote features a scalloped edge and comes in a number of vibrant hues, including colorful options perfect for the Vineyard, like tangerine and coral pink. For any outdoor activity that requires good foot support, New Balance's DynaSoft sneakers will provide plenty of stability for long walks, bike rides, and everything in between. A durable rubber sole and plush cushioning create a sturdy foundation for all-day wear, and the no-sew upper makes this shoe easy to slip on and off. A casual outfit for outdoor activity is also a must on Goldson's Martha's Vineyard packing list. 'One of my favorite things to do on the Vineyard is get up around 5 A.M., ride my bike to the Inkwell in Oak Bluffs for sunrise, then head toward Edgartown and return just in time to watch the Polar Bear swim,' she says. 'Since I'm rolling right out of bed, I need something that's quick, comfortable, and still cute if I bump into someone I know (as that is par for the course on MV!)' Old Navy's CloudComfy Cami Short Bodysuit is ideal for its super soft and stretchy material. It also features adjustable straps and a built-in bra so that you can throw it on with ease. Coastal towns make it easy to get outside and get moving. Activewear should be a staple on any packing list, like this Athleta skort that comes with sewn-in gripping material to keep the undershorts from riding up. Plus, it has four pockets to store essentials so you can head out the door without a purse. 'The best part of the Vineyard is how a long walk or bike ride can lead to a full day of unexpected pit stops. I love workout clothes that work for a long bike ride, but feel polished enough to stop by a friend's house,' Goldson says. Goldson always packs a cute cover-up for beach days. She recommends choosing one that can double as a dress if you want to grab lunch after the beach, like Blooming Jelly's Casual Cover-up. The lightweight V-neck option falls above the knee and features two pockets to store items like your wallet and keys. The loose, swinging style is ideal for days full of activity, too. Vuori's Halo Modern Full Zip Hoodie provides all of the super soft Dream Knit fabric that the brand is known for, with a relaxed fit and length that allows you to layer your favorite shirt under it, perfect for the warm days but cooler evenings on Martha's Vineyard. The moisture-wicking material and four-way stretch are also clutch if you plan to wear it on a more active day to keep you dry even if you get sweaty. A breezy maxi dress is a classic staple for any coastal retreat. J. Crew's Smocked Maxi Dress offers all the comfort of a classic summer dress with a cotton fabric that's ultra lightweight. 'Choose pieces that let you sit comfortably, move easily, and still feel stylish,' says Goldson. 'Some of my favorite Vineyard moments are dinners at family friends' homes. Whether it's ribs at the Murrays or the Fourth of July at the Crews, the vibe is always relaxed but still festive.' This smocked dress is a comfortable option for dressing up or down, so you can wear it to see where the day takes you. $298 at One of the best parts of an island getaway is that you never really need heels. Goldson suggests wearing flats that offer both comfort and flair, like Freda Salvador's Fisherman Sandals. The shoes are embedded with real flowers in each panel, and they have leather sole for increased durability. 'I never pack heels with me, even though I swear by them back in NYC. Think flats with woven textures, a splash of color, or a subtle platform,' she adds. At this month's inaugural Vineyard Icon Awards, Goldson brought the best Vineyard looks to the event. 'The dress code was Vineyard chic—long dress, flowy, but definitely a statement piece,' says Goldson. 'As a fourth-generation Vineyarder, this is more than an event. It is my way of giving back to a place that shaped me. This island is part of my legacy, and this celebration is an extension of that.' Her final look for the event was inspired by soft floral and pastel prints like this Danica Strapless Dress from Bec + Bridge. Made from a delicate mesh material, the dress features chic touches like a cascading side ruffle and a statement keyhole cutout at the bust. Pack something that can take you from day to night, like a cute cropped tank. This OnlyStory tank is made from a stretch round fabric that provides all-day comfort. A backless cut and side slits make it the perfect evening top to pair with your favorite skirt or pants. Goldson recommends pairing a tank with a casual, loose-fitting pair of pants like AGolde's Low Curve Fray jeans, made from supersoft, regenerative cotton. 'August is filled with events on the Vineyard,' says Goldson. There's always something to attend, from panels to parties. Having a small statement bag like this rhinestone clutch from BabeBeyond allows space for your personal items to be stored and doesn't take up too much room in your luggage. It features both a zipper and two circular handles, making it easy to tote around in style. $215 at For a fun Sunday brunch or sunset happy hour with friends, the Mina SLace Shirt from Generation Love checks all the boxes for comfort and style. The popular classic button-down silhouette in sheer topaz lace truly makes a statement without trying too hard. You can dress it up or down and wear it open or closed. No matter how you style it, you're bound to get a compliment or two. Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.
Yahoo
05-08-2025
- Yahoo
Quarterra Group Announces Start of Leasing at Harper Apartments
265-Home Mid-Rise Community Welcomes Residents to Boston's Allston Neighborhood BOSTON, Aug. 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Quarterra Group, a subsidiary of Lennar Corporation and a real estate investment and development firm, has announced the start of leasing at Harper, a mid-rise community in the heart of Boston's burgeoning, art-centric Allston neighborhood. The management of Harper falls under the recent merger agreement between Quarterra Living, the property management division of Quarterra Group, and RKW Residential, the property management arm for Alfred. Harper adds 265 apartment homes to Allston, which has emerged as Boston's hub for public art displays, unique music venues, and a lively restaurant and nightlife scene that has become popular with young professionals. The neighborhood also continues to attract a large student demographic, due to its location at the center of Boston's top universities – Harvard University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Boston College, Tufts University and Boston University. Shop Top Mortgage Rates A quicker path to financial freedom Your Path to Homeownership Personalized rates in minutes "Allston is Boston's artistic and intellectual epicenter, with world-renowned academic institutions and well-established visual and performing arts centers. Harper puts residents at the heart of these stimulating and inspiring cultural opportunities," said Dan Lee, Managing Director of Quarterra Group's Northeast Division. "While Harper is ideally situated to enjoy all the neighborhood has to offer, residents can also soak in the city from the comfort of multiple rooftop decks, engage with the community's interactive streetscapes, and enjoy the luxuriously landscaped green space. Harper captures the vibrant energy and artistic spirit of Allston, bringing it home for an unparalleled living experience." Harper's enviable location at 40 Rugg Road puts residents within easy reach of numerous cultural attractions, including the Museum of Fine Arts, the Honan-Allston Branch of the Boston Public Library and the annual Allston Village Street Fair. Residents will enjoy nearby Magazine Beach, Ringer Playground, Artesani Wading Pool and Spray Deck, Arsenal Community Park and Skate Park, Penniman Road Play Area, and Mansfield Street Dog Park. The community is close to several sports venues, like historic Fenway Park, home of the Red Sox; Warrior Ice Arena, practice facility for the Boston Bruins; Auerbach Center, practice facility for the Boston Celtics; and the Track at New Balance multisport complex. Allston's retail, dining and nightlife district is within walking distance along Harvard Avenue and Cambridge Street. The Allston Yards mixed-use development, with 50,000 square feet of retail and a new, 67,000 flagship Stop & Shop grocery store, is only a quarter mile away. Less than a half mile away, the mixed-use Boston Landing development features 25 shops and restaurants. Major employers in the Boston Landing campus include the New Balance headquarters, WGBH-TV, Proteostasis Therapeutics, Roche Diagnostics and Mass Innovation Labs. Regional connectivity from Harper is simplified by the community's proximity to multiple transit options. The Boston Landing MBTA Commuter Rail station is less than a half mile walk from the community, providing direct access to Boston's Yawkey (Longwood), Back Bay and South Station along the Framingham/Worcester line. The train accesses most entertainment and commercial hubs – including Fenway and the financial district – in less than 15 minutes. Harper is also located half a mile from the Harvard Avenue Station of the MBTA Green light rail station. The community has excellent highway connectivity with the Mass Pike (I-90) and Boston's other major thoroughfares just minutes away. In addition to studio, one- and two-bedroom apartment homes — ranging from 450 to 1,120 square feet — eight specially designated artist studio units are also available. All homes feature stainless steel appliances, quartz countertops, wood-inspired flooring throughout, keyless entries, under-cabinet lighting and movable islands in select floor plans. Residents have access to a club room with a fireplace lounge, a fitness studio with flex space, co-working spaces with a private conference room, an artist studio, dog run and pet spa, bike storage rooms and a fully automated parking garage. Harper is highlighted by two rooftop decks, 11,000 square feet of landscaped green space, interactive streetscapes and 2,500 square feet of ground-floor retail space. The community's environmentally thoughtful design will earn a LEED Gold certification. Harper is one of Quarterra's first two communities in Massachusetts, joining Artemas in Everett, Mass. About QuarterraQuarterra Group, Inc. is a real estate investment firm focused on creating long-term value through the development of high-quality multifamily communities nationwide. As a wholly-owned subsidiary of Lennar Corporation (NYSE: LEN and LEN.B), Quarterra combines institutional scale with local market expertise to deliver purposefully designed rental communities in high-growth markets. Quarterra's core strategy includes the expansion of its Emblem portfolio-a growing collection of attainably priced communities that deliver efficient design, modern amenities, and strong investment fundamentals. Emblem Communities are thoughtfully positioned to meet the needs of today's renters while supporting Quarterra's broader vision of sustainable, resilient, and diversified housing solutions. For more information, visit Media ContactMarlena DeFalcoLinnellTaylor Marketingmarlena@ View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Quarterra
