WILMINGTON — A new local business is changing the way Wilmington residents think about housing and investments, by turning backyard space into flexibility and income.
Wilmington ADU Solutions (a 1 OAK Construction company) specializes in designing and constructing Accessory Dwelling Units, or ADUs. An ADU is a small, self-contained home, built on existing residential lot. They can serve a wide range of purposes—from rental income to aging-in-place suites and backyard guest cottages.
“There’s a growing demand for housing that’s flexible, affordable, and meets the needs of today’s families,” said Kevin Geer, general manager of Wilmington ADU Solutions. “ADUs offer a simple, smart solution—whether you need extra space for guests or in-laws, want to support adult children who can’t afford to buy in this market, or are looking for an affordable way to invest in a short-term rental.”
The company offers a simplified, fixed-price model with pre-designed floorplans ranging from a 250-square-foot studio to an 800-square-foot two-bedroom unit (with a 1,200 square foot unit in the works). Each model includes a full kitchen, bathroom, and modern finishes, with options for upgrades like covered porches or outdoor kitchens.
You can choose between three different styles: Natural Modern, Coastal and Farmhouse. “We’ve even put together fully furnished packages, from coffee machines to beds and everything in between” said Isabelle Hayden, Wilmington ADU Solutions in house designer. “We want the spaces to feel cohesive and comfortable, which makes the turnkey experience seamless.”
After building multiple custom ADU’s, Travis Morris, Owner of Wilmington ADU Solution, saw an opportunity to streamline the process and make it more accessible to everyday homeowners. “Our goal is to make it easy for people to add a livable, beautiful space to their property,” said Morris. “We’ve already taken care of the design, the permitting strategy, and the construction timeline—so everything runs smoothly.”
The launch of Wilmington ADU Solutions comes at a time when interest in ADUs is growing across the state. With increasing housing costs, shifting family structures, and recent updates to local zoning laws, homeowners are exploring new ways to maximize their property value and living space.
New Hanover County, like many other areas in North Carolina, has loosened regulations on backyard units in an effort to expand the housing supply. This makes it easier for homeowners to build ADUs as long-term rentals, short-term guest spaces, or private accommodations for aging parents or adult children.
Wilmington ADU Solutions is currently building in New Hanover, Brunswick, and Pender counties. The team’s typical process includes a quick planning and sales period, a short lead time to begin work, and as little as a 90-day construction window.
“We’ve created a system that works for both busy homeowners and the communities they live in,” said Geer. “ADUs offer housing that’s practical, beautiful, and neighborhood-friendly.”
The company’s clean design aesthetic and clear price points make the units attractive to a broad audience. Each model is tailored to suit the Wilmington lifestyle, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern efficiency.
As the city grows and evolves, Wilmington ADU Solutions sees itself playing a role in how that growth takes shape—by helping people create more livable space on the land they already own.
“Backyard housing isn’t just a trend,” said Morris. “It’s a long-term solution to real problems—and we’re proud to bring it to Wilmington.”
Content is sponsored by Wilmington ADU.
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