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Our Proven ADU Process

A clear, guided approach that brings certainty to ADU design and construction in Dallas.

From First Conversation to Move-In

Building an accessory dwelling unit is a meaningful decision, especially when it’s intended for an aging parent or a family member who needs to live close by. Our process is designed to remove uncertainty, provide clarity at every step, and help you navigate the unique zoning, permitting, and neighborhood requirements across Dallas. As an ADU-specialized design-build firm, we handle the details from early feasibility through construction, giving you a streamlined experience that respects your time and protects your investment.

Our Design-Build Process

01

Initial Call & Project Assessment

Every project begins with a focused conversation to understand your goals, timing, and who the ADU is for. We review your property address, discuss feasibility in your specific Dallas neighborhood, and outline the realistic investment range for the type of ADU you’re considering, whether a garage conversion or a ground-up backyard home. This call ensures expectations are aligned from the start.
02

On-Site Visit & Property Evaluation

Next, we meet at your home to evaluate the site, utilities, setbacks, access, and any HOA or architectural considerations. This visit allows us to confirm buildability and understand how the ADU should function for your parent or family member. You’ll receive early guidance on layout possibilities, placement, and architectural fit with your existing home.
03

Pre-Development Drawings

To move the project forward with certainty, we begin with pre-development drawings. For a small architectural deposit, our design partners produce the three documents Dallas cities and HOAs require to begin approval conversations:
  • A site plan showing ADU placement
  • A floor plan tailored to your needs
  • Exterior elevations aligned with your home’s style
These drawings are your first real step toward determining what’s possible. They also signal to the city, and to your HOA, that you’re serious and prepared.
04

Permitting & Approvals

Dallas permitting is layered and can be confusing. Our team manages the entire process for you, from city submissions to HOA coordination. Most homeowners have been told “no” at some point before finding us; this is where our specialization matters most. We understand the nuances of Dallas, University Park, Highland Park, Lakewood, East Dallas, and other nearby communities, and we navigate each jurisdiction’s rules on your behalf.
05

Final Design, Specifications & Investment Review

Once approvals are moving forward, we finalize your design, refine specifications, and confirm the investment level with full transparency. We outline timelines, selections, utilities, and any neighborhood-specific requirements. Our goal is to eliminate surprises and give you confidence before construction begins.
06

Construction & Project Management

After permits are approved, construction begins under the supervision of a disciplined, white-collar project management approach. We manage every trade, maintain communication, and ensure your ADU is built efficiently, safely, and to the architectural standards expected in Dallas’s established neighborhoods. Most ADUs are completed much faster than full home builds, keeping disruption to a minimum.
07

Completion, Walkthrough & Move-In

When construction wraps, we complete a detailed walkthrough to ensure everything aligns with your expectations. Your ADU is delivered move-in ready, built to comfortably and safely support the family member who will call it home.

Trusted by Families Across Dallas

Great experience converting a detached garage into a Mother-In-Law Suite. Full kitchen, bathroom, shower and laundry n demand hot water. Punctual and well managed. Jeff and his crews take pride in their work. There was one minor issue with city permitting but it was quickly resolved and was at no fault of EADU. Highly recommend!

Tyler Hawkins

Working with Estate ADU was a fantastic experience! Their team was professional, transparent, and incredibly skilled. They transformed my vision into a beautiful, high-quality ADU on time and within budget. Their transparency throughout the process was refreshing, and I appreciated their honest advice on what would work best for my property. I highly recommend Estate ADU for anyone looking to build an Accessory Dwelling Unit—truly top-notch service!

Neil Amos

We met with multiple companies to get quotes for our backyard tiny house. Jeff and his team were by far the most professional and gave us a competitive quote. We are looking forward to getting started!

Justin Wenokur

Jeff and Ryan exceeded all expectations. Professional and efficient service. High quality product. My family are loving our new ADU in Grapevine!

Drew Williamson

Totally would recommend. Had a great experience with both Jeff and Ryan as they always kept me informed every step of the process and answered my calls when I had questions. 10/10 would recommend

Meredith Knight

Ask for Jeff or Ryan, and they’ll make sure you’re taken care of. These guys are pros and very detail oriented - very pleased with the services I received and would trust them with my next project as well!

David Latham

Great experience with their team building our parents a detached unit. Would recommend to anyone!

Burke Michaels

Estate ADU converted my garage into an apartment in a timely and cost effective manner.

Austin Dabbs

Let’s Discuss Your ADU

Clear guidance from the first call through final construction.

Reach out to schedule your introduction call and tell us about your property, your goals, and your timeline. Our team will walk you through what is possible on your lot and outline the next steps with clarity and confidence.

Start Your ADU Project
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