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The Best Accessory Dwelling Unit Builders in Austin, Texas

11 Min Read
Photo for ILCOR Custom Builders

Last updated on August 28th, 2024 at 01:56 am

When building an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) in Austin, Texas, navigating the process can seem daunting. The city’s robust real estate market, with a median home value of $548,654, means that residential construction projects often have a hefty price tag. On average, homeowners can expect to spend between $200,000 and $550,000 on an ADU, with high-end projects potentially exceeding $1.05 million depending on the complexity and materials used. These projects typically take up to 32 weeks to complete. However, delays are not uncommon due to the unpredictable nature of construction.

Austin, home to approximately 974,447 people, offers a thriving environment for those looking to add an ADU to their property. With a rich cultural scene and a booming economy, the demand for flexible housing solutions is rising. This has led to many contractors specializing in ADUs, giving homeowners a wide range of options. The average cost of a construction project in the city has hovered around $2,843.66 per square foot over the past two years, underscoring the importance of homeowners’ selecting a reliable contractor to ensure their project stays within budget and meets their expectations.

Finding the right ADU builder in Austin is essential for a smooth and successful project. A good contractor can help you navigate local regulations, manage timelines, and avoid costly mistakes, ultimately making the difference between a stress-free experience and a construction nightmare. Whether adding a rental unit or creating a space for family, our guide to the best ADU builders Austin TX will help you find a professional who can bring your vision to life.


Overview: The Best Accessory Dwelling Unit Builders in Austin, Texas

Contractor

Average Customer Satisfaction

Service Rating Score

Total Number of Reviews

Complaint Percentage

Mosier Luxury Homes

5.0

5

31

0.2%

Alchemy Builders

5.0

5

60

0.1%

Green Brick Builders

5.0

5

12

0.4%

Camelot Custom Homes Inc.

4.9

5

18

0.3%

Soledad Builders, LLC

4.9

5

20

0.3%

Oliver Custom Homes

4.9

5

21

0.3%

ILCOR Custom Builders

4.9

5

3

0.9%

Small House Solutions

4.9

5

78

2.5%

Escarpment Construction LLC

4.9

5

2

1.0%

Gladius Construction & Design

4.8

5

33

5.5%

See Ranking Methodology at the bottom of this article to learn more. 


Mosier Luxury Homes

1006 W 31st Street, Austin, TX 78705

  Mosier Luxury Homes

Year Established

2015

Services Provided

Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), Custom Home, Remodel, Interior/Exterior Design

Areas Served

Austin, Bee Cave, Lost Creek, Rollingwood, West Lake Hills

Notable Projects

New 1-story, 3 bedroom, 3.5 bathroom single family residence with attached garage | 4301 Prickly Pear Dr, Austin, TX, 78731
No valuation details

What Customers Are Saying

Responsive to Questions, Detail Oriented, Organized

Average Customer Satisfaction

5 (31 reviews)

Service Rating Score

5

Complaint Percentage

0.2%

Mosier Luxury Homes has helped Central and South Austin create energy-efficient homes. With a deep background in construction, Amy and Adam Mosier lead this team of skilled builders. It is a member of the Home Builders Association (HBA) of Greater Austin, Austin Energy Green Building, and the Texas Association of Builders. This Austin adu builder is accredited by the BBB.

The team is well-versed in creating homes where design meets functionality. Its homes are not just memorable; they provide a better quality of living because of their sustainability. The Mid-Century modern home in the North Loop neighborhood perfectly illustrates this. It features a high-end design completed through energy-efficient construction. Its location offers homeowners accessibility to eclectic restaurants, shops, and the University of Texas.


Alchemy Builders

108 Chicon Street, Austin, TX 78702

  Alchemy Builders

Year Established

2014

Services Provided

Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), Full Service Remodels, Renovations, New Construction

Areas Served

Austin, Barton Creek, Lost Creek, Rollingwood, Sunset Valley, West Lake Hills

Notable Projects

New construction of a two-story single family residence 3/2.5 with attached garage and covered porch | 1203 Bouldin Ave, Austin, TX, 78704
$400,000.00

What Customers Are Saying

Good Communication, Quality Work, Professionalism, Responsive, On Schedule, Efficient, Fast

Average Customer Satisfaction

5 (60 reviews)

Service Rating Score

5

Complaint Percentage

0.1%

Alchemy Builders has been building some of Austin’s most recognizable homes. Principal Taylor Jackson founded Alchemy Builders based on his extensive background in construction and management. The firm’s excellence in construction has been featured in many articles including Austin Business Journal and Dwell Magazine.

One of the firm’s notable homes—featured in Dwell Magazine—was completed in collaboration with ICON 3D and Logan Architecture. It is a revolutionary home that employed 3D technology printing in addition to its construction work. The house is designed and built to be both desirable and recognizable.


Green Brick Builders

7301 Ranch Road, FM 620N, Suite #155/133, Austin, TX 78726

  Green Brick Builders

Year Established

2018

Services Provided

Accessory Dwelling Units, Renovation, Restoration

Areas Served

Austin, Barton Creek, Bear Creek, Bee Cave, Buda, Mountain City, Pflugerville, Rollingwood, Sunset Valley, West Lake Hills, Lakeway, Steiner Ranch

What Customers Are Saying

Patient, Helpful, Within Budget

Average Customer Satisfaction

5 (13 reviews)

Service Rating Score

5

Complaint Percentage

0.4%

Green Brick Builders is one of Austin’s leaders in the quality design/build of ADUs and home renovations. The firm is focused on green building and uses several sustainable materials in its projects. Skilled builders, designers, and a focused management team lead the firm’s operations.

The firm’s portfolio features ADUs and small offices in various styles, including modern and Craftsman. The Harrington Avenue residence is a perfect illustration of the firm’s work. It features a charming exterior that is perfect for compact living.


Camelot Custom Homes Inc.

12400 Hwy. 71 West, Suite #350-404, Austin, TX 78738

  Camelot Custom Homes Inc.

Year Established

2004

Services Provided

Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), Residential Projects, Custom Homes, Commercial Projects

Areas Served

Austin, East Austin , Lakeway, Tarrytown, Pemberton, West Lake Hills, Rollingwood, Castle Hill, Clarksville, Crestvie, Allendale, Dripping Springs, Wimberley, Lakeway, South Lake Travis, Bee Cave

Notable Project

New 1-story ADU | 1207 Travis Heights Blvd, Austin, TX, 78704
$150,000.00

What Customers Are Saying

On Time, High Quality, Nice to Work With, Budget Conscience

Average Customer Satisfaction

4.9 (18 reviews)

Service Rating Score

5

Complaint Percentage

0.3%

Camelot Custom Homes Inc. is an award-winning construction and remodeling firm. Seasoned builder Paul Streeter heads the team’s processes and projects. Under his management, the firm has grown its clientele and expanded its services. Clara Oliver joins him in actively collaborating with architects and designers in the city. Today, the team has the knowledge to work on energy-efficient homes, ADUs, custom homes, and home remodels.

The firm presents its clients with an efficient three-step process that starts with a phone call and ends with homes delivered on time and within budget. One of the firm’s home additions is located in Castle Hill. This home received a contemporary remodel from the firm including the addition and extension of a sunroom leading to the outdoor pool. It features a large screened-in back porch with a roof extension for an extended rooftop space.


Soledad Builders, LLC

1004 Mo-Pac Cir., Suite #201, Austin, TX 78746

  Soledad Builders, LLC

Year Established

2003

Services Provided

Accessory Dwelling Units, Green Home Building, Remodeling

Areas Served

Austin, Barton Creek, Bear Creek, Bee Cave, Lakeway, Lost Creek, Rollingwood, Shady Hollow, Sunset Valley, The Hills, West Lake Hills, Dripping Springs, Buda

Notable Project

New single story accessory dwelling - caretakers house - 2 bed, 1.5 bathroom, with private drive, attached garage and covered porch | 10211 David Moore Dr, Austin, TX, 78748
$150,000.00

What Customers Are Saying

Attention to Detail, Competent, Professional, On Time, On Budget, Pleasant to Work With

Average Customer Satisfaction

4.9 (20 reviews)

Service Rating Score

5

Complaint Percentage

0.3%

Kelly Molak and Marc Molak co-founded Soledad Builders banking on their extensive expertise in construction. These leaders brought together a team of skilled and passionate professionals. The firm focuses on creating high-end homes and ADUs that meet green energy standards. Most of its clientele have praised the firm’s attention to detail and superior quality of work. This Austin adu was featured in an article from the Austin Business Journal.

As a member of many home-building associations, the firm upholds high building standards. One of the firm’s noteworthy projects is the Austin remodel and addition. It features a stunning exterior displaying a South Congress cottage. The addition is home to a bathroom, a living area, and a bedroom.


Oliver Custom Homes

11506 Pradera Drive, Austin, TX 78759

  Oliver Custom Homes

Year Established

1985

Services Provided

Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), Custom Home, Energy Efficient Homes

Areas Served

Austin, Barton Creek, Bee Cave, Brushy Creek, Cedar Park, Jollyville, Lost Creek, Mc Neil, Pflugerville, Rollingwood, Round Rock, Sunset Valley, Volente, Wells Branch, West Lake Hills, Windemere

Notable Project

New single family residence with attached guest house | 8503 Andes Cv, Austin, TX, 78759
$900,000.00

What Customers Are Saying

On Time, Close to the Cost Estimated, Attention to Detail

Average Customer Satisfaction

4.9 (21 reviews)

Service Rating Score

5

Complaint Percentage

0.3%

Oliver Custom Homes is a full-service construction firm owned by brothers Paul and Matt Oliver. The brothers have worked and collaborated with some of Austin’s most recognized architects and share a combined expertise of over 50 years. This wealth of knowledge trickles down to its team of skilled builders, who continuously craft remarkable homes. This adu Austin was featured in an article from Architect Magazine.

Excellent work rarely goes unnoticed, and Oliver Custom Homes has been recognized with an abundance of positive client feedback and magazine features in Curbed Austin, Home Design & Decor, and Builder Online Magazine. One of its notable homes is the West Lake Pool House. It features a compact yet spacious pool house complete with a dining area, bathroom, living area, and kitchen.


ILCOR Custom Builders

12112 Anderson Mill Road, Austin, TX 78726

  ILCOR Custom Builders

Year Established

1963

Services Provided

Accessory Dwelling Units , Residential Homes, Commerical Homes, Modular Homesl ,Home Remodels

Areas Served

Austin, Bee Cave, Brushy Creek, Cedar Park, Hudson Bend, Jollyville, Jonestown, Lago Vista, Lakeway, Leander, Lost Creek, Mc Neil, Pflugerville, Point Venture, Round Rock, The Hills, Volente, Wells Branch, West Lake Hills, Barton Creek, Bear Creek, Buda, Creedmoor, Hays, Manchaca, Mountain City, Mustang Ridge, Onion Creek, Rollingwood, San Leanna, Shady Hollow, Sunset Valley, Anderson Mill

Notable Project

New one-story residence w/ attached covered porch & attached storage building | 6108 Langham St, Austin, TX, 78741
$75,000.00

What Customers Are Saying

Responsive, Friendly, On Budget

Average Customer Satisfaction

4.9 (3 reviews)

Service Rating Score

5

Complaint Percentage

0.9%

ILCOR Custom Builders is one of Texas’ leading construction firms, specializing in custom homes, commercial, and modular design/build projects. Since its inception, ILCOR has dedicated itself to creating well-built and memorable spaces. Kathleen Kelly Wimbish leads the firm, which is backed by a team of great leaders who help her manage the firm and its projects.

The team has designed and built many structures that clients love. ILCOR’s portfolio has various sizes and styles, including contemporary, traditional, and farmhouse homes. One of the firm’s notable projects is the Grandview Modern custom design/build home right in the heart of Austin.


Small House Solutions

4005 W Parmer Lane, Austin, TX 78727

  Small House Solutions

Year Established

2016

Services Provided

Accessory Dwelling Units, Tiny House on Wheels, Park Models, Single Family Residential, Accessory Structures

Areas Served

Austin, San Antonio, Houston, Williamson County, Travis County, Burnet County, San Marcos

Notable Project

New 2-story secondary dwelling with attached carport | 4608 Gonzales St, Austin, TX, 78702
$77,000.00

What Customers Are Saying

Responsive, Within Budget, Great to Work With, Detail-Oriented

Average Customer Satisfaction

4.9 (78 reviews)

Service Rating Score

5

Complaint Percentage

2.5%

ADUs, tiny homes, park models, and accessory structures are just some of the many building products Small House Solutions offer. Small House Solutions provides homeowners with affordable home solutions that are fit for compact living. Jason Kahle leads the firm and his wide expertise in construction and management has helped him bring together a team of skilled professionals. That team includes design/build leaders collaborating through complex home projects.

The firm’s portfolio includes homes built and designed all over Texas. Its works are available in various styles, including Craftsman, Farmhouse, and Contemporary. One notable ADU is the Helotes Ranch home. The 700-square-foot home features a charming design with a bathroom, bedroom, breakfast nook, kitchen, and spacious covered patio.


Escarpment Construction LLC

P.O. Box 300012, Austin, TX 78703

  Escarpment Construction LLC

Year Established

1997

Services Provided

Accessory Dwelling Units, Custom Homes, Remodel/Addition

Areas Served

Austin

What Customers Are Saying

Timely, Responsive, Budget Conscious

Average Customer Satisfaction

4.9 (2 reviews)

Service Rating Score

5

Complaint Percentage

1.0%

Creativity, sustainability, and quality have defined Escarpment Construction’s work. Led by Warren Spain, the team has completed many projects in Austin’s most desirable neighborhoods. His passion for homes that bring families together has shaped the firm’s services. Projects are carefully crafted, delivered on time, and made to be an oasis amid busy city life.

Escarpment Construction’s portfolio features both custom homes and ADUs. The team is well-versed in building accessory dwelling units that generate new, affordable living spaces. Working with several ADUs has helped the firm create and streamline designs that quickly get approved for building permits.


Gladius Construction & Design

9901 Brodie Lane, Austin, TX 78748

  Gladius Construction & Design

Year Established

2001

Services Provided

In-Laws & Adu's, Bathrooms, Kitchens , Whole Home & Additions, Outdoor Living, Tenant Improvement

Areas Served

Austin, Barton Creek, Bear Creek, Bee Cave, Buda, Creedmoor, Hays, Lost Creek, Manchaca, Mountain City, Mustang Ridge, Onion Creek, Rollingwood, San Leanna, Shady Hollow, Sunset Valley, West Lake Hills

What Customers Are Saying

Professional, In Budget, Highly Skilled, Craftsmanship

Average Customer Satisfaction

4.8 (33 reviews)

Service Rating Score

5

Complaint Percentage

5.5%

Gladius Construction & Design has over 20 years of experience in general construction. Since its inception, this adu builders Austin has worked with some of Austin’s best architects and high-profile clients. The firm guides its clients through clear construction steps from initial consultation to moving in.

The team, comprising skilled designers and builders, creates homes highlighting contemporary and rustic styles. Its specializations include Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), home remodels, and other improvements. One of its great projects is this rustic home remodel in Austin. It features the firm’s attention to detail and ability to assemble a cohesive design flowing from one area to another.


Ranking Methodology

To evaluate the performance of contractors, our methodology employs a systematic approach that considers various factors contributing to customer experience and satisfaction. We focused on assessing the accessory dweling unit builders in the Austin area. The methodology involves assigning weightings to specific categories based on their significance in determining customer service quality. Here’s the breakdown of the categories and their respective weightings:

  • Average Customer Satisfaction (35%): This metric represents the average rating given by customers across the same review platforms as the Average Customer Satisfaction Score. A higher average rating indicates greater overall satisfaction with the service provided.
  • Service Rating Score (25%): We analyze the ratio of high (4-5 stars) to low (1-2 stars) ratings for each business across multiple review platforms: Google, Houzz, and Yelp. A higher percentage of positive reviews contributes to a higher score, reflecting better customer satisfaction.
  • Complaint Percentage (25%): We analyze the ratio of complaints to total reviews for each business. A lower complaints ratio indicates better service quality and results in a higher score.
  • Business Hours and Availability (10%): The operating hours of each business are assessed to gauge accessibility. Companies with extended operating hours are awarded a higher score, as they offer greater convenience to customers.
  • License Status (5%): We verify the licensing status of each contractor with their local licensing board to ensure legal compliance. Companies with valid licenses receive a higher score, reflecting professionalism and adherence to regulations.
  • Total Score: We determined the overall rating for every contractor by calculating a weighted average, with the category weight determining the amount the subscore contributed to the total score 

Additional Note: Service Rating Score, Average Customer Satisfaction, and Complaint Percentage are calculated with a Bayesian estimate to account for if the contractor has a low number of total reviews. A Bayesian average is a statistical method used to calculate the average of a set of data points while taking into account prior information or beliefs about the distribution of the data. It combines the observed data with a prior distribution to generate a more accurate estimate of the true average.


Author

  • Brooke Adams

    Brooke is a Deputy Editor at Home Builder Digest with around five years of professional experience as a writer and editor in the construction and home improvement space. Her expertise covers a wide range of topics including addition construction, home remodeling, and landscape design. Brooke has a Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, and she also brings extensive experience as a project manager for a top construction firm, overseeing multi-million dollar projects. Additionally, she is certified in LEED and OSHA safety standards. Expertise: Addition Construction, Home Remodeling, Landscape Design Key Highlights: Over 5 years of experience writing and editing in the construction space, Deputy Editor at HomeBuilderDigest Education: Syracuse University, Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering; Certificates in Public Relations and Social Media