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ADU Solutions for Aging in Place in Baldwin Park

Many older adults in California want to stay in their own homes as they age because it's more comfortable and familiar, and it allows them to maintain their independence. The challenge is finding a way to do this without adding extra monthly costs, while also having someone nearby to help and ensuring the property’s value increases. We’ve found a solution to meet these needs, which we explain in this article.

ADUs are a great way to add extra, flexible living space to your property. These small, separate units can be designed with features that make them safer and easier for older adults to use, offering an affordable long-term solution while keeping them close to family and friends. They can also be adapted for different uses in the future.

Understanding ADUs and their Benefits for Aging in Place in Baldwin Park

What is an ADU?

An ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) is a small living space that includes everything needed for a home, like a kitchen, bathroom, and living area. It’s built on the same property as a main house and is also called a granny flat or in-law suite. ADUs can be attached to the main house, built as a detached structure, or even created by converting part of the house.

Benefits of ADUs for Aging in Place

1. Staying Close to Family. For older adults, being near loved ones is important. Having an ADU on a family member’s property allows them to maintain their independence while staying close to family for support and connection.

2. More Affordable Than Moving to a Retirement Home. Building an ADU is often more affordable than moving to a senior living facility. It also helps families live together, cutting down on the need for extra housing.

3. Safety and Convenience. ADUs can be designed with features that make daily tasks easier for older adults, like wider doorways, single-level layouts, and slip-resistant floors. These designs are especially helpful for those with mobility issues.

4. Flexibility for the Future ADUs are flexible. If the senior no longer needs to live there, the space can be rented out for extra income or used by other family members or caregivers, making it a valuable long-term investment.

Not sure which ADU option is right for you or your property?

Cali ADU Design + Build

How to improve the property to fit your elderly parent?

Start by thinking about your parent’s current needs and how they might change in the future. Consider how they move around and what they might need to stay comfortable and safe.

If your parent is fairly independent but struggles with stairs, setting up a living space all on one level could be a good option. This could include a bedroom, bathroom, kitchen, and living area, all on the same floor for easier access.

Instead of making big changes to your current home, you could build a separate living unit, like an ADU. Whether it’s attached to the main house or a separate structure, an ADU gives your parent their own space while still being close to you.

If you decide to move out, you could rent the main house to a family who can help look after your parent. While this might lower rental income a little, it offers peace of mind knowing someone is nearby to assist if needed.

What are the economics of building an ADU for the aging-in-place scenario?

For many senior homeowners who no longer have a mortgage, adding an ADU can be a feasible financial option. If you're in this situation, you might use a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) to fund the construction of the ADU. Once the ADU is built and your parents move in, you can rent out the main house and use the rental income to pay off the HELOC. The goal is to make sure the rental income from the main house covers the HELOC payments. While it may seem like a complicated plan, it can be an effective way to manage the costs.

Let's consider that your parents would be happy to live in a 2 bedroom with 2 bath ADU. The size for such an ADU is approx. 1,200 sq. ft. The cost of a 1,200 sq. ft. ADU in Baldwin Park is $515,244. A loan that has a 6.5% interest rate, requires a monthly payment of $3,256. Ideally, you could rent the main house with at least the same amount as your payments for the HELOC. This way you will break even on your monthly expenses, while you have someone keeping an eye on your parents and increasing the value of this property.

Besides providing the right living spaces for your parents at potentially break-even costs per month, this ADU could add around $540,000 to the property’s market value if you decide to sell.

ADUs can increase the value of your property. Learn how much they could add.

ADU design restrictions in Baldwin Park

Where can ADUs be built?

ADUs can be built on properties in both residential areas and mixed-use zones.

What is the maximum size and height of an ADU in a single-family zone?

In Baldwin Park's single-family areas, an ADU can be up to 1,200 square feet and as tall as 18 feet.

What is the maximum size and height of an ADU in a multi-family zone?

In Baldwin Park's multi-family zones, the maximum size and height are also 1,200 square feet and 18 feet tall.

What is the minimum setback for an ADU?

The minimum setback for an ADU in Baldwin Park is 4 feet from the property lines.

What are the safety regulations for an ADU?

If the main house has fire sprinklers, the ADU will also need them.

Is independent access from the main house required?

While Baldwin Park Municipal Code doesn't specifically mention it, in most cities, an ADU should have its own separate entrance from the main house.

What should be considered when designing an ADU for seniors?

For elderly residents, consider adding features like ramps, handrails, or easy-to-access doors, which may require special permits.

Can you use a mobile structure as an ADU?

No, an ADU should have a permanent foundation and meet building codes. Mobile homes or temporary units are not allowed.

How fast can you build an ADU?

Building an ADU usually takes around 3 to 6 months, depending on the design, permits, and the site.

What are the rules for ADU ownership in Baldwin Park?

Is the property owner required to live in the main house?

Yes, the property owner should live either in the main house or the accessory dwelling unit (ADU) at all times. However, if the ADU was approved between January 1, 2020, and December 31, 2024, and meets certain conditions, the owner doesn't need to live in the main house or ADU.

What are the rental regulations for an ADU?

An ADU cannot be rented out for less than 30 days. If the owner rents out the ADU, they should have a valid business license.

What permits are needed for an ADU?

To build or convert an ADU, you typically need a permit. A standard building permit covers construction, plumbing, electrical, and mechanical work. However, if the ADU doesn't fit specific criteria, you might need a special ADU permit. Once permits are approved, you should follow all safety and design requirements. If you do not meet the rules, the city may revoke the permits.

Resources and Where to Start in Baldwin Park

To get started, Baldwin Park residents can reach out to the Baldwin Park City Planning Department for ADU guidelines and zoning details.

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