Thinking about an accessory dwelling unit for a family member, a rental, or more room to live? Appena Properties, LLC is a family-owned general contractor based in Holliston, MA, run by Tarciso and Hellem. We help homeowners in Holliston and nearby MetroWest towns such as Framingham, Ashland, Hopkinton, Medway, Sherborn, and Milford plan and build ADUs with the same integrity and precision we bring to every home build, addition, and remodel.
Massachusetts now allows one ADU by right in single-family zoning districts, which has many homeowners asking what is possible on their own lot. We work closely with you from the first conversation and the initial planning phase so the design fits your property, your budget, and your goals, whether that means a detached backyard unit, a unit attached to the house, or converting space you already have.
Our team handles the phases that turn a plan into a finished, livable space: completed foundations, framing, foam insulation, blueboard hanging, wall plastering, vinyl siding installation, and flooring. Our goal is a modern, energy-efficient home suited to your unique needs, built to last.
Throughout your project you get responsive, personalized service, honest communication, and an experienced professional team with attention to detail. We follow a simple process: a consultation where we listen to your ideas, planning and design where we work out every detail, construction with precision and care, and completion, when we hand you a space you'll love. We support our design and building services with a full construction materials and workmanship guarantee.
If you're weighing an ADU in Holliston or anywhere in MetroWest, reach out to Tarciso or Hellem for a free estimate. We'll walk your property, talk through your options, and help you understand the next steps with your town.
Let’s Plan Your ADU
Call or email for a free estimate on your Holliston or MetroWest ADU project. Appena Properties, LLC, based in Holliston, MA.
Tarciso: (774) 615-9861 | Hellem: (774) 615-6567 | contact@appenaproperties.com
Frequently Asked Questions
Are ADUs allowed in Holliston and other Massachusetts towns?
Under the Affordable Homes Act, signed in 2024, Massachusetts allows one accessory dwelling unit by right in single-family zoning districts. The by-right rule took effect February 2, 2025. That means no special permit is needed for a qualifying “protected use” ADU, though towns can still apply reasonable rules such as setbacks, height, site plan review, and Title V septic requirements.
How big can a by-right ADU be in Massachusetts?
Under state law, a protected-use ADU can be no larger than half the gross floor area of the main home or 900 square feet, whichever is smaller. It must be self-contained, with its own sleeping, cooking, and bathroom facilities and a separate entrance. A town may choose to allow larger units.
Do I need a permit to build an ADU?
Yes. Even a by-right ADU needs a building permit and has to meet the state building, energy, fire, plumbing, electrical, and septic codes. Permits go through your town's building department, which can explain its local rules and application process.
Do I have to live on the property to have an ADU?
For a protected-use ADU in a single-family zoning district, state law says towns cannot require that the owner live in the main home or the ADU. Towns may restrict or prohibit short-term rentals.
Can an ADU be attached to my house or does it have to be detached?
An ADU can be a separate backyard building, attached to the home, or created inside existing space, as long as it meets the requirements, including a separate entrance. The best option depends on your lot, your home, and local dimensional rules. We'll talk it through with you during the consultation.
How do I get started with Appena on an ADU?
Call Tarciso at (774) 615-9861 or Hellem at (774) 615-6567, or email contact@appenaproperties.com, to set up a free estimate. We'll listen to your ideas, look at your property, and help you plan the next steps.