In Maine’s tight real estate market, properties with in-law apartments or accessory dwelling units (ADUs) offer housing options in unexpected places. They can be rented out for additional income or provide separate spaces for older children, aging parents or live-in caregivers — an increasing need given Maine’s aging population.
State lawmakers are considering a bill to encourage ADU construction and increase housing density. The third ADU-related bill in four years, it’s intended to fix or clarify recent laws and address concerns about local zoning control.
Maine has allowed up to two ADUs to be built on every single-family lot statewide since 2023, but some municipalities are still updating their ordinances to comply.
Here’s a look at three ADU options across Maine that are already on the market.
New luxury condo with in-law or caregiver suite
Location: South Portland, Cumberland County
Listing price: $947,872
Year built: Under construction
Size: 2,350 square feet
Price per square foot: $383
Taxes: $7,264 per year (estimated), plus $479 monthly homeowner’s association fee
This three-level townhouse is part of a 20-unit condominium project that’s under construction near Willard Beach. On the ground floor, an efficiency suite includes kitchenette, full bathroom and private patio for a caregiver, in-law or guest. There’s also a one-car garage and an elevator to the upper floors. The second floor has an open-concept layout including a living room with a small deck, kitchen, dining area, office and half-bathroom. On the top floor, there’s a primary bedroom with ensuite bathroom and private deck, guest bedroom, full bathroom and laundry room.
Contact: Anne Ross-Murray, F.O. Bailey Real Estate, 207-831-5238
Single-family Colonial with in-law potential
Location: Lewiston, Androscoggin County
Listing price: $425,000
Year built: 1939
Size: 1,936 square feet
Price per square foot: $220
Taxes: $4,079 per year
This three-bedroom Colonial includes a 365-square-foot bonus area — most recently used as a hair salon — that could be converted into an in-law suite. The house includes a kitchen with granite countertops and maple cabinets, and a living room with fireplace and crown moldings. All three bedrooms are upstairs with one full bathroom. Two half-bathrooms are downstairs, including one in the bonus area. Outdoor features include a one-car garage, backyard deck and patio, and above-ground pool.
Contact: Ashley Brodeur Leuluai, Legacy Realty, 207-712-9900
Waterfront home offers shared living options
Location: West Gardiner, Kennebec County
Listing price: $525,000
Year built: 1977
Size: 3,616 square feet
Price per square foot: $145
Taxes: $3,201 per year
This homes sits on 2.72 wooded acres overlooking Cobbosseecontee Stream. On the lower level is a walk-out apartment for in-laws, tenants or guests. It includes two bedrooms, two full baths, a kitchenette and living room. The upper level has a large kitchen and living room with sunset views of the stream, three bedrooms and two full bathrooms. A large bonus room has a sliding glass door that’s ready for a future deck and 295 feet of stream frontage provides access for kayaking and fishing.
Contact: Michael Navarro, Elevate Maine Realty, 207-203-9022
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