Do you use your garage as a garage?
Most people I know don’t! Of course in southern California it might be easier to leave your car outside compared to Buffalo, New York when you get a four foot dump of snow! But with the cost of building and the increased need for “flex” space, many people use their garages for offices, art studios, gyms or man/woman caves.
ADU (accessory dwelling unit) is becoming a popular term nationwide as states, towns and cities look at changing zoning regulations to provide for more affordable housing.