Your Backyard Could Be
Working Harder.
CottageSmith builds custom ADUs across metro Atlanta. The Truth and Lending team at Highland Mortgage helps you finance them — with programs built for homeowners, investors, and everyone in between.
ADU Financing Options We Offer
Every situation is different. Here are the programs we can put to work for you — all originated directly by our team.
HomeStyle® Renovation
Purchase or refinance with construction costs rolled into a single loan. Based on the after-improved value of your home — so you're borrowing against what it will be worth, not what it is today. One closing, one loan.
Cash-Out Refinance
Borrow against the equity in your primary residence or investment property. Use proceeds to build, convert, or finish your ADU — no renovation escrow, no draw process, just clean access to your equity.
HELOC
A line of credit secured by your existing equity. Popular for detached ADUs and garage conversions — draw only what you need, when you need it. Especially strong for high-credit borrowers.
Non-QM / Alt-Doc
Bank statement and no-ratio programs that work when tax returns or DTI ratios make conventional financing a dead end. Can be paired with a cash-out refi or used when the ADU build is already underway.
Bridge Loan
Not a construction loan, but a powerful tactical tool. Free up capital while planning your ADU build — short-term, interest-only, designed to bridge a gap rather than fund construction directly.
Counting ADU Rental Income? We Can Help With That Too.
When structured correctly, projected ADU rental income can be used to qualify — expanding what you're able to borrow.
- Fannie Mae HomeReady® allows ADU rental income (income caps apply at ≤80% AMI)
- Freddie Mac allows ADU income on 1-unit owner-occupied properties
- Ask us how rental income could improve your qualifying numbers
Expert on Both Sides
of Your Project
CottageSmith and the Truth and Lending team bring focused expertise to every step — so you're never navigating the build or the financing alone.
Atlanta's custom ADU builder — handling everything from design and permitting to construction and delivery. On time. On budget. No surprises.
- Custom designs for your lot and lifestyle
- Full permitting and project management
- High-quality materials and craftsmanship
- Serving metro Atlanta since 2024
A locally owned, people-first mortgage team based in Decatur, GA. We walk you through every option so you know exactly what's possible before you commit to anything.
- Multiple ADU loan programs in-house
- Solutions for homeowners, investors & self-employed
- Can use projected rental income to qualify
- Independent & Employee Owned
Ready to See What's
Possible on Your Property?
Start an application to check your numbers, or schedule a call with our team — no pressure, no commitment, just a clear picture of your options.