Mayor Zohran Mamdani has introduced a new initiative designed to help homeowners remain in their neighborhoods while generating additional income by building accessory dwelling units (ADUs).
Central to this effort is the “ADU for You” website, which offers a comprehensive guidebook, a growing library of pre-approved building plans, and tools for assessing site feasibility and estimating costs. These resources aim to simplify what is often a complicated process, helping residents navigate zoning, permitting, and financing when adding units such as backyard cottages or in-law apartments.
The city is also reopening applications for the Plus One ADU program, which provides both financial and technical support. Backed by city funding and grants from New York State Homes and Community Renewal and operated with Restored Homes HDFC, the program offers up to $395,000 per homeowner. Since its initial launch drew over 1,300 applications in just two weeks, demand has proven strong…