ADU Cost, Financing & ROI in Broward County, Florida

Key Takeaways

• Broward County ADU construction costs range from $120,000 to $250,000 for turnkey 400-600 square foot units, with prefab modular options like Mesocore's Model E ADU offering faster installation and predictable pricing compared to traditional site-built construction

• Rental income potential reaches $1,800-$2,500 monthly for small ADUs in South Florida's high-demand rental market, generating 10-12% annual ROI with payback periods of 5-7 years for cost-effective builds

• ADU rules vary by municipality across Broward County, with many jurisdictions now permitting ADUs in residential zones

• Hurricane-rated construction is mandatory in Broward's High Velocity Hurricane Zone, requiring design to applicable ASCE 7 wind speeds and approved impact protection that add initial costs but provide insurance savings and structural resilience

• Multiple financing pathways exist including construction loans, home equity products, and specialized ADU financing through Ocean Capital Lending, plus personal loan options from HFS Financial offering up to $300,000 with no equity requirements

• Factory-installed MEP systems eliminate rough-in inspections in some jurisdictions, with Mesocore's Intertek-certified plumbing, electrical, and mechanical systems pre-installed before delivery to accelerate construction timelines

• Off-grid solar capability cuts utility costs with 6 kW solar arrays and dual 10 kWh lithium-ion batteries qualifying for the 30% federal Residential Clean Energy Credit (subject to IRS rules), though off-grid operation depends on local codes as many Broward municipalities require utility connections where available

What Is an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) in Broward County?

Accessory Dwelling Units are secondary, self-contained residential units located on the same property parcel as a primary single-family home. These independent living quarters include their own kitchen facilities, bathroom, sleeping area, and separate entrance.

ADUs in Broward County can take several forms:

• Detached structures: Standalone buildings separate from the main house

• Attached additions: Connected to the primary residence with independent access

• Garage conversions: Existing garages transformed into living space

• Interior conversions: Basement or attic spaces converted to self-sufficient units

All ADUs in Broward County must comply with Florida Building Code requirements, including High Velocity Hurricane Zone (HVHZ) standards that require design to applicable ASCE 7 wind speeds and approved impact protection (such as impact-rated glazing or approved shutters). 

Detached vs. Attached ADUs

Detached ADUs offer maximum privacy and flexibility but typically cost more due to separate foundation, utility connections, and complete building envelope requirements. These structures range from 400-1,000 square feet and work well as backyard cottages for rental income or family housing.

Attached ADUs reduce construction costs by sharing walls, utilities, and roof structures with the primary residence. However, they may require more extensive permitting review and offer less privacy for occupants.

Broward County Zoning Requirements

Many Broward municipalities now allow some form of ADU or accessory living unit in single-family zones, but rules are hyper-local. Common requirements include:

• Minimum lot sizes of 5,000-7,500 square feet

• Maximum ADU size limits of 400-1,200 square feet

• Setback requirements matching primary structure standards

• Owner-occupancy provisions in some jurisdictions

• Parking space allocations (typically 0-1 additional spaces required)

Mesocore's site plan service confirms zoning feasibility, setback compliance, and utility requirements for your specific Broward County parcel for a $200 refundable deposit, helping homeowners avoid costly permitting mistakes before beginning construction.

Average ADU Cost in Broward County: What to Expect

Building an ADU in Broward County requires budgeting for both construction costs and site-specific expenses unique to Florida's hurricane-prone coastal environment. Total costs range from $120,000 to $250,000 for completed 400-600 square foot units.

Cost Breakdown by ADU Size (300-600 sq ft)

Per-square-foot pricing in Broward County averages:

• Budget builds: $250-$300 per square foot for basic garage conversions or modular installations

• Mid-range construction: $350-$450 per square foot for standard detached ADUs with quality finishes

• High-end builds: $500-$600 per square foot for custom designs with premium materials

A typical 410 square foot ADU like Mesocore's Model E starts at $129,000 factory MSRP with hurricane-rated steel core construction, 6-KW solar system, and complete kitchen and bathroom packages. This includes robotically welded structural framing, impact windows and doors, and all MEP systems factory-installed and Intertek-certified.

What Drives Cost Variation in Broward County?

Site preparation expenses vary dramatically based on property conditions:

• Foundation costs: Concrete pier foundations for the Model E require 8 piers, while slab foundations for larger units run $6-$14 per square foot

• Soil testing and grading: $2,000-$5,000 for standard sites; $5,000-$15,000 for complex terrain

• Utility connection fees: $3,000-$10,000 for standard hookups to municipal systems

• HVHZ-rated construction: Hurricane code compliance adds 15-25% to material costs

• Permit and impact fees: Variable by municipality, typically $1,500-$8,000

Mesocore's off-grid solar capability qualifies for the 30% federal Residential Clean Energy Credit (subject to IRS rules), though off-grid operation depends on local codes as many Broward municipalities require utility connections where available. The integrated 6 kW solar array with dual 10 kW lithium-ion batteries (factory-integrated storage system) provides complete energy independence when permitted.

Labor costs represent another major variable. Traditional site-built construction requires coordinating multiple subcontractors over 6-12 months, while modular systems with factory-installed MEP components reduce on-site work. Mesocore's Model E can be installed in as little as 10 days after foundation preparation, minimizing labor expenses and construction loan carrying costs.

Prefab ADU Cost vs. Site-Built: Which Is Right for You?

Factory-built prefab ADUs offer distinct cost and timeline advantages over traditional stick-built construction, particularly in Broward's high-velocity hurricane zone where specialized labor and materials command premium pricing.

How Prefab ADUs Lower Labor Costs

Traditional site-built ADUs require coordinating electricians, plumbers, HVAC technicians, framers, roofers, and finish carpenters across multiple months. Each trade visit incurs separate labor charges, mobilization fees, and scheduling delays that extend project timelines.

Prefab modular construction consolidates this work in factory conditions where:

• All plumbing, electrical, and mechanical systems install in controlled environments

• Factory inspections by third-party agencies like Intertek certify systems before shipping

• Rough-in inspections eliminate on-site in some jurisdictions, reducing total inspection requirements

• Weather delays don't affect construction schedules

• Material waste drops through precision manufacturing

Mesocore's hybrid construction system ships as a 20-foot ISO-certified container with a robotically welded steel core and all prefabricated components—a complete "house in a box" that expands on-site. The swing-up roof system, prefabricated wall panels with LP® Smart Side® cedar siding, and factory-installed appliances arrive ready for final assembly.

Delivery and Installation in Broward County

Prefab ADU delivery costs vary by distance from manufacturing facilities. The Model E ships via truck, rail, or ocean cargo in its 20-foot container format. Delivery to Broward County from Mesocore's Palm Beach-area factory typically costs $3,000-$5,000 including crane placement onto prepared foundations.

On-site installation timeline comparison:

Prefab Modular (10-30 days):

• Foundation installation: 3-7 days

• Core delivery and placement: 1 day

• Wall panel assembly: 2-4 days

• Roof deployment and sealing: 1-2 days

• Utility connections: 2-3 days

• Interior finishes and painting: 3-7 days

• Final inspections: 1-3 days

Traditional Site-Built (6-12 months):

• Foundation: 2-4 weeks

• Framing: 3-6 weeks

• Rough-in (electrical, plumbing, HVAC): 4-8 weeks

• Inspections and corrections: 2-4 weeks

• Insulation and drywall: 3-4 weeks

• Interior finishes: 6-10 weeks

• Final inspections: 2-4 weeks

The accelerated timeline reduces construction loan interest charges and allows faster rental income generation, improving overall project ROI.

ADU Financing Options for Broward County Homeowners

Multiple financing pathways exist for Broward County ADU construction, each suited to different equity positions, credit profiles, and project timelines. Most traditional lenders view ADU projects as home improvements rather than new construction, opening several product categories.

Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) for ADUs

HELOCs provide flexible financing for homeowners with substantial equity. These revolving credit lines allow drawing funds as needed during construction, paying interest only on borrowed amounts.

Current Florida HELOC rates average 7.25-9.50% APR, tied to the Wall Street Journal Prime Rate. Maximum loan-to-value ratios typically reach 80% of current home value, requiring 20% existing equity plus the ability to cover ADU costs within the credit limit.

HELOC advantages include:

• Interest-only payments during construction

• No draw requirements—use funds as needed

• Existing mortgage rates remain unchanged

• 10-year draw periods with 20-year repayment terms

Requirements typically include:

• Credit scores of 680+

• Debt-to-income ratios below 43%

• Proof of income and employment

• Property appraisal

Construction Loans vs. Renovation Loans

Construction-to-permanent loans offer single-closing convenience with interest rates of 6.75-7.5% for qualified borrowers. These products convert automatically to permanent mortgages after construction completion, eliminating double closing costs.

Construction loan requirements include:

• 10-20% down payments

• Licensed contractor agreements

• Approved plans and permits

• Lender inspections at draw milestones

• 6-12 month construction periods

FHA 203(k) rehabilitation loans now count ADU rental income in mortgage qualification calculations—75% of estimated income for existing ADUs and 50% for new construction. This 2023 policy change significantly improves borrowing power for ADU developers.

Minimum credit scores of 580 enable 3.5% down payments, while scores of 500-579 require 10% down. Mortgage insurance adds 1.75% upfront plus 0.55-0.85% annually.

Cash-Out Refinance Options

Cash-out refinancing replaces existing mortgages with new, larger loans, extracting equity as cash for ADU construction. This option makes sense for homeowners with low current interest rates from 2020-2021 who've gained substantial equity through appreciation.

Broward County property values increased 20-30% in recent years, creating refinancing opportunities. Maximum loan-to-value ratios of 80% leave 20% equity cushion while accessing construction funds.

Accessory Dwelling Unit Plans: From Design to Permit in Broward

Professional ADU plans meeting Florida Building Code requirements form the foundation of successful permitting. Broward County jurisdictions require engineered construction drawings, structural calculations, and energy compliance documentation.

What's Included in a Complete ADU Plan Set?

Comprehensive ADU plans include:

Architectural Drawings:

• Site plan showing property boundaries, setbacks, and ADU placement

• Foundation plan with pier or slab specifications

• Floor plan with room dimensions and door swings

• Exterior elevations showing all four sides

• Building sections and construction details

• Roof framing plan

Structural Engineering:

• Stamped structural calculations by Florida-licensed engineer

• Hurricane load analysis for HVHZ compliance

• Foundation design for local soil conditions

• Roof tie-down and connection details

• Impact window and door specifications

MEP Drawings:

• Electrical plan with panel, circuits, and fixture locations

• Plumbing plan showing supply and drain routing

• HVAC design with equipment specifications

• Energy compliance calculations

Code Compliance Documentation:

• Florida Building Code compliance affidavit

• HVHZ product approvals for windows and doors

• Energy code calculation worksheets

• Accessibility provisions if required

Mesocore's Model E ADU includes approved engineered construction drawings as part of the $129,000 factory MSRP. The company manages permit submittals and provides stamped structural calculations certified for Broward County HVHZ requirements, eliminating the need to hire separate architects and engineers.

Navigating Broward County Permitting

Permit timelines in Broward County vary by municipality but typically require 4-12 weeks for ADU approvals.

Common permit requirements include:

• Completed application forms with property owner signature

• Full plan sets (typically 3-5 copies)

• Structural calculations sealed by Florida PE

• Energy compliance documentation

• Impact fee payments

• HOA approval letters (if applicable)

First-time submittals often receive correction requests requiring plan revisions. Working with experienced ADU builders or using pre-approved modular designs like Mesocore's reduces correction cycles and accelerates approval.

Permitting costs range from $1,500-$8,000 depending on project valuation, with additional impact fees for roads, schools, parks, and emergency services varying by municipality. Mesocore's permitting support includes managing drawings, engineering coordination, and local building department interactions to keep projects on schedule.

ADU ROI: Rental Income and Property Value Gains in Broward County

ADUs generate financial returns through two primary mechanisms: monthly rental income and increased property valuation. Broward County's strong rental market and housing shortage create favorable conditions for both.

Average ADU Rental Rates in Broward County

South Florida ADU rental rates range from $1,800-$2,500 monthly for 400-500 square foot units, representing the highest rates in Florida. Location and amenities drive pricing variations:

Premium Areas:

• Fort Lauderdale Beach: $2,200-$2,500

• Downtown Fort Lauderdale: $2,000-$2,400

• Las Olas Isles: $2,100-$2,500

• Wilton Manors: $1,900-$2,300

Mid-Range Neighborhoods:

• Plantation: $1,800-$2,100

• Coral Springs: $1,700-$2,000

• Davie: $1,700-$2,000

• Pembroke Pines: $1,700-$2,000

Value Areas:

• Oakland Park: $1,600-$1,900

• Pompano Beach: $1,600-$1,900

• Margate: $1,500-$1,800

Broward County maintains 95.3% occupancy rates with average vacancy periods of 38 days between tenants. This strong demand supports consistent rental income with minimal vacancy losses.

Mesocore's Model E ADU offers rental advantages through included appliances, energy-efficient design, and off-grid solar capability. The 6 kW solar system with dual lithium-ion batteries reduces or eliminates tenant utility costs, making units more attractive while allowing higher rental rates or all-inclusive pricing that simplifies tenant billing.

How ADUs Boost Home Resale Value

Property values can increase up to 35% on average when ADUs are added, with typical appreciation of $225,000-$510,000 for detached units.

Factors affecting appreciation include:

• Construction quality: HVHZ-rated structures with impact windows command premium valuations

• Income verification: Legal permits and rental history documentation maximize appraisal value

• Market conditions: Rising housing costs increase ADU values proportionally

• Location: Desirable neighborhoods see higher ADU premiums

Florida's favorable tax treatment preserves these gains. The state's property tax exemption for residential solar devices excludes the added value from property tax assessments, while homestead exemptions remain intact when adding ADUs for family use.

Long-term wealth building potential reaches $600,000-$1,000,000 over 20 years through combined rental income, property appreciation, and tax savings. A $150,000 ADU investment generating $2,000 monthly rent produces:

• Rental income: $480,000 over 20 years (minus operating expenses)

• Property appreciation: $200,000-$300,000

• Tax benefits: $50,000-$100,000 in depreciation and deduction savings

• Total returns: 300-500% effective ROI

Accessory Dwelling Units for Sale: Prefab vs. Custom Options

Broward County homeowners can choose between turnkey prefab ADUs or custom-built units designed specifically for their properties. Each approach offers distinct advantages in cost, timeline, and customization potential.

Where to Find ADU Suppliers in Florida

Prefab ADU manufacturers provide complete packages with factory pricing, standardized designs, and proven installation processes. These turnkey solutions include:

• Complete construction drawings and engineering

• Factory-built core with MEP systems installed

• All materials and components for on-site assembly

• Permitting support and code compliance documentation

• Warranty coverage on structural and mechanical systems

Mesocore's Model E ADU exemplifies the prefab approach with $129,000 factory MSRP covering:

• 410 square foot 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom layout

• Robotically welded hurricane-rated steel core

• 6-KW solar system with 14 PV panels and dual lithium-ion batteries

• Five hurricane impact windows and full-lite impact door

• LP® Smart Side® cedar vertical siding with brushed smooth trim

• Complete kitchen with induction cooktop, microwave/convection oven, refrigerator with ice maker, Fisher Paykel drawer dishwasher, and stainless steel sink

• Full bathroom with 3'x3' shower, vanity, and fixtures

• Lioher® cabinets and Wilsonart® Thinscape® countertops

• Luxury vinyl plank flooring throughout

• Ductless Amana heat pump/AC with HEPA air circulation

• Combo washer/dryer with dedicated hookups

• All electrical wiring, panel, and LED lighting factory-installed

• 50-gallon electric water heater

• Swing-up prefabricated roof with TPO membrane

Custom-built ADUs offer unlimited design flexibility but require coordinating architects, engineers, contractors, and permitting independently.

Evaluating ADU Quality and Certifications

Quality indicators for ADU suppliers include:

Building Code Compliance:

• IBC (International Building Code) approval

• Florida DBPR modular home registration

• HVHZ certification for Miami-Dade and Broward

• Third-party inspection agency certification (Intertek, ICC-ES)

Structural Standards:

• HVHZ wind rating documentation

• Hurricane impact window/door test reports

• Foundation engineering for local soil conditions

• Tie-down and anchoring specifications

Energy Efficiency:

• Energy Star appliances

• High R-value insulation systems

• Solar-ready or integrated solar systems

• Efficient HVAC equipment with SEER ratings

Warranty Coverage:

• Structural warranty (typically 10+ years)

• Mechanical systems warranty (1-5 years)

• Appliance manufacturer warranties

• Workmanship guarantees

Mesocore's certifications include IBC approval, Florida DBPR registration, HVHZ compliance for Broward County, and Intertek certification of factory-installed MEP systems. The robotically welded steel core provides structural integrity exceeding wood-framed construction, while meeting or surpassing all Florida hurricane code requirements.

Factory tours of the Palm Beach showroom allow prospective buyers to inspect construction quality, MEP installations, and finish materials before committing to purchases.

Hurricane-Rated ADU Construction: Why It Matters in Broward County

Broward County's location in Florida's High Velocity Hurricane Zone subjects all residential construction to the state's most rigorous wind and impact standards. ADUs must meet the same requirements as primary residences to receive building permits and certificates of occupancy.

What HVHZ Certification Requires

HVHZ standards mandate design to applicable ASCE 7 wind speeds with approved impact protection for structural systems, with all components tested and approved for extreme conditions:

Structural Requirements:

• Engineered tie-down systems anchoring buildings to foundations

• Reinforced connections at all wall-to-roof and wall-to-foundation joints

• Continuous load paths transferring forces from roof to foundation

• Bracing and shear wall systems resisting lateral wind loads

Envelope Protection:

• Impact-resistant windows and doors tested with 9-pound, 6-foot 2x4 lumber projectiles

• Secondary water barriers beneath all roof coverings

• Sealed building envelopes preventing water intrusion

• Corrosion-resistant fasteners and connectors

Product Approvals:

• Miami-Dade Notice of Acceptance (NOA) for all exterior products

• Florida Product Approval with HVHZ endorsement

• Test reports demonstrating compliance with TAS 201, 202, 203 standards

• Manufacturer certifications for wind uplift resistance

Mesocore's Model E ADU achieves HVHZ compliance through robotically welded steel core construction that exceeds wood-frame strength. The factory-installed hurricane impact windows and full-lite impact door carry all required certifications, while the swing-up roof system with TPO membrane creates a sealed, wind-resistant envelope.

All MEP systems install in the factory under Intertek supervision before shipping, ensuring proper mounting and securing that might be compromised during field installation under time pressure.

Insurance Savings with Hurricane-Rated ADUs

Florida homeowners insurance costs average $11,759 annually statewide, with Broward County rates among the state's highest due to coastal exposure. Adding an ADU increases dwelling coverage requirements and proportionally raises premiums.

However, HVHZ-certified construction qualifies for mitigation discounts:

• Impact-resistant windows/doors: 10-15% premium reduction

• Hurricane-rated roof systems: 15-20% discount

• Proper tie-downs and reinforcements: 5-10% savings

• Combined fortification: up to 45% total premium reduction

Insurance companies verify HVHZ compliance through:

• Building department permit documentation

• Product approval certificates

• Wind mitigation inspection reports

• Structural engineering certifications

Properly documented hurricane-rated ADUs not only reduce insurance costs but also improve coverage availability. Many Florida insurers now limit policies in coastal areas—HVHZ-compliant structures have better access to competitive quotes.

The HVHZ wind rating also protects investment value. Permitting violations in Florida can result in fines ranging from $1,000 per day for first violations to $5,000 per day for repeat violations, with one-time fines up to $15,000 for irreparable violations, while unpermitted structures may require removal or expensive after-the-fact permitting. HVHZ-certified ADUs maintain full legal status and resale value.

Steps to Finance and Build Your ADU in Broward County

Successfully completing a Broward County ADU project requires coordinating financing, permitting, site preparation, and construction in proper sequence. Understanding the process prevents costly delays and budget overruns.

Timeline from Concept to Move-In

Phase 1: Feasibility and Pre-Planning (2-4 weeks)

• Confirm property zoning and setback requirements

• Obtain site plan feasibility analysis ($200 refundable)

• Verify utility availability and connection points

• Research HOA restrictions if applicable

• Determine optimal ADU size and placement

Phase 2: Financing Pre-Qualification (1-2 weeks)

• Calculate total project budget including soft costs

• Review financing options (construction loan, HELOC, personal loan)

• Submit loan applications with required documentation

• Obtain pre-approval letters showing borrowing capacity

• Lock interest rates if proceeding immediately

Phase 3: Design Selection and Permitting (4-12 weeks)

• Finalize ADU design and finish selections

• Order engineered construction drawings

• Submit permit applications with fees

• Respond to plan review comments if required

• Obtain approved building permits

Phase 4: Site Preparation (2-4 weeks)

• Clear and grade building site

• Install foundation (piers or slab)

• Rough-in utility connections to property line

• Schedule delivery and crane services if needed

• Prepare staging areas for materials

Phase 5: ADU Installation and Assembly (1-8 weeks)

• Receive modular core or begin framing

• Complete structural assembly and weatherproofing

• Connect utilities and install systems

• Install finishes, paint, and flooring

• Complete punch list items

Phase 6: Inspections and Occupancy (1-3 weeks)

• Schedule required building inspections

• Complete corrections if needed

• Obtain certificate of occupancy

• Set up utility accounts

• Move in or begin tenant screening

Mesocore's installation process compresses Phase 5 to as little as 10 days after foundation completion. The factory-built core with pre-installed MEP systems eliminates rough-in inspection delays in jurisdictions that accept Intertek factory certifications, accelerating the path to occupancy.

Working with a General Contractor in Broward

Licensed general contractors coordinate site work, foundation installation, utility connections, and final assembly. Florida requires contractors to hold state licenses or local certifications depending on project scope and value.

Essential contractor qualifications include:

• Active Florida contractor license (verify at MyFloridaLicense.com)

• General liability insurance ($1M+ coverage)

• Workers compensation insurance

• Local references on similar ADU projects

• Familiarity with Broward County permitting

Contractor responsibilities typically include:

• Site preparation and foundation installation

• Coordinating utility connections

• Assembling prefab components per manufacturer instructions

• Installing finishes not completed in factory (paint, decks)

• Managing inspection schedules

• Obtaining certificate of occupancy

Clear scope-of-work documentation prevents disputes over responsibilities between the ADU manufacturer, contractor, and property owner. Mesocore provides detailed installation manuals and optional on-site technical support to ensure proper assembly of their modular systems.

Many Broward County areas have authorized Mesocore dealers who manage the complete build-out and permitting process, offering turnkey solutions where homeowners receive finished, occupancy-ready ADUs with single-point accountability.

Conclusion

An ADU in Broward County isn’t just extra space — it’s an income-producing asset. Strong rental demand, high average monthly rents, and limited inventory in South Florida mean a properly built ADU can often pay for itself within 5-7 years, then generate consistent cash flow while adding six figures to your property value. It’s one of the few ways a single-family homeowner can create new housing and long-term equity on the same lot.

But Broward is not a casual build market. You’re in a High Velocity Hurricane Zone, which means strict wind, impact, and permitting requirements that affect design, cost, insurance, and inspection. The fastest, lowest-friction path is to plan in the right order — confirm zoning, line up financing, submit engineered HVHZ-compliant plans, and work with a builder who knows Broward County inspectors. Prefab, hurricane-rated modular units with factory-installed MEP systems can shorten timelines and get you to rental income faster, as long as they’re fully code-compliant and documented.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Broward County ADU cost, and what drives the price?

Most 400–600 sq ft turnkey ADUs run about $120,000–$250,000. Costs swing with site prep (foundation, grading, utility tie-ins), HVHZ hurricane requirements, finishes, and permit/impact fees (often $1,500–$8,000).

What zoning and permitting rules should I expect?

Rules are set city-by-city in Broward, so lot size, maximum ADU square footage, setbacks, parking, and owner-occupancy can vary. Plan on submitting engineered, HVHZ-compliant drawings and product approvals; typical permit review runs 4–12 weeks with possible corrections.

Prefab vs. site-built—what’s faster in Broward?

Prefab modular units with factory-installed MEPs can compress on-site assembly to 10–30 days after the foundation, while traditional builds often take 6–12 months. In some jurisdictions, third-party factory certifications can reduce or eliminate rough-in inspections, further speeding timelines.

What financing options are common for ADUs here?

Homeowners often use HELOCs, construction-to-perm loans, cash-out refis, or specialized ADU/personal loans. FHA 203(k) can count projected ADU rent (typically 75% for existing units, 50% for new builds) toward qualification, which can boost borrowing power.

What rental income and ROI can I realistically expect?

Small ADUs in South Florida commonly lease for $1,800–$2,500/month, supporting 10–12% annual ROI on cost-effective projects. Solar can lower utility bills and may qualify for the 30% federal Residential Clean Energy Credit (subject to IRS rules), but note that many Broward cities still require utility connections even if your ADU is technically off-grid capable.