CLEVELAND HEIGHTS, OHIO
The Quiet Zoning Change
That Can Keep Families Together
ADUs — accessory dwelling units often known as carriage houses, backyard cottages, or in-law suites — give Heights homeowners a way to house aging parents, adult kids, or a caregiver. Once the zoning is approved.
BEFORE
AFTER
Your aging garage could become a carriage house — a home for family, a source of income, or both.
10,338
Homes with detached garages in Cleveland Heights
4,508
With 2-car garages 30+ years old
$136M
Potential construction value from 1,000 conversions
2,946
Local jobs supported
OUR STORY
15 Years of Research. One Mission.
Cynthia Trotta, Nono, Chris Trotta
My husband Chris introduced me to the idea of converting garages into carriage houses 15 years ago. What started as a family project became an obsession — with the data, the zoning, the financing, and the potential to change how American families think about housing.
My 92-year-old dad could be the first resident — if Cleveland Heights makes it possible.
This year, it’s not just theory, it’s personal. My father, Nono, is 92. He’s sharp, independent, and determined to stay that way. We want to convert our garage into a carriage house — a safe, beautiful space 30 feet from our back door. No nursing home. No loss of dignity. Just family, close.
But here’s the thing: Cleveland Heights doesn’t allow it yet.
The city is actively developing ADU zoning with the Cuyahoga County Planning Commission. Five pre-approved carriage house designs were selected through an AARP-funded competition in 2024. Draft amendments have been written. The framework is there.
What’s needed now is community support. Neighbors showing up. Voices saying: yes, this makes sense for our city.
My dad could be the first resident of our carriage house. Help us make that happen.
Show Up When It Counts
Cleveland Heights is developing ADU zoning right now. A community meeting will give residents one more chance to weigh in. Sign up and we’ll let you know when it’s scheduled — because the people who show up are the ones who shape the policy.
Email Me Updates on Cleveland Heights ADU Zoning
In 2024: Massachusetts legalized ADUs up to 900 square feet, by right for single-family homes. No special permits. No zoning board hearings. Within a year, over 1,600 families filed ADU applications.
WHY CARRIAGE HOUSES
One Garage. Three Ways to Build Wealth.
Most homeowners are sitting on $140K–$195K of untapped value. Your aging garage could become your family’s most powerful financial asset.
🏠
Multigenerational Living
Keep aging parents close without losing anyone’s independence. A carriage house gives your family dignity, proximity, and peace of mind.
💰
Rental Income
Turn a structure you’re already maintaining into $1,100–$1,600/month. With Fannie Mae’s new rules, that income counts toward your mortgage.
📈
Property Appreciation
ADUs add 20–35% to your home’s assessed value. A $160K build on a $250K property could push your total to $360K+.
2011
Chris introduces the carriage house concept
2024
Cleveland Heights ran an AARP-funded ADU design competition
2025
Fannie Mae allows ADU rental income for mortgage qualification
2026
Our build begins. Dad moves in. The movement goes public.
FREE CALCULATOR
How Much Will Your Carriage House Actually Cost?
No guessing. No generic national averages. Enter your city, your garage type, and your build goals — get real numbers in 60 seconds.
Your Location
Cleveland Heights, OH
Garage Type
2-Car Detached
Estimated Build Cost
$160,000
Monthly Rental Income
$1,350
Home Value Increase
+$56,000
✓ Personalized cost estimate for your city and region
✓ Three build tiers: bare minimum, standard, and upscale
✓ ROI, payback period, and rental income projections
✓ Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac financing options
✓ Line-by-line cost breakdown (with email)