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ADU Solutions for Aging in Place in Bell Gardens

Aging in place is a common choice for many older Californians who want to stay in their own homes and neighborhoods instead of moving to assisted living or retirement communities. The challenge is finding a way to make this possible without adding extra monthly costs while ensuring someone can check in on your parents and also increase the property's value. This article provides a solution that can help you achieve all of this.

ADUs are an excellent option for creating extra living space on your property. These compact, separate units can be customized to meet the needs of older adults, offering a cost-effective and long-lasting way for them to stay near family while living independently. Plus, they can be adapted for different purposes later on if needed.

Understanding ADUs and their Benefits for Aging in Place in Bell Gardens

What is an ADU?

An ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) is a small, separate living space on the same property as a main house. Also known as granny flats, in-law units, or backyard cottages, it is fully equipped with a kitchen, bathroom, and living areas. ADUs can be built as attached, detached, or by converting an existing space in the main house.

Benefits of ADUs for Aging in Place

1. Proximity to Family. Having an ADU on a family member's property lets older adults stay independent while being close enough to enjoy regular family support and interaction.

2. More Cost-Effective Than Moving to Assisted Living. Building an ADU tends to be more affordable than moving into a senior care facility, and it helps families stay together without needing extra housing.

3. Safety and Ease. ADUs can be tailored with features like wider doors, single-story layouts, and slip-resistant flooring, all of which are beneficial for older adults, especially those with mobility issues.

4. Future Flexibility. ADUs can easily be adapted in the future. If the senior no longer needs the space, it can be rented out for income or used by other family members or caregivers, ensuring its value over time.

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?

Begin by assessing your parent's current needs and how they might become in the future. Consider their mobility and what changes could help them live comfortably and safely.

If your parent is still independent but struggles with stairs, setting up a single-story living space might be a good option. This could include a bedroom, bathroom, kitchen, and living area all on the same level, making it easier for them to get around.

Rather than making major changes to your existing home, you could build a separate living area, like an ADU. Whether attached to the main house or as a stand-alone unit, an ADU gives your parent their own space while keeping them close.

If you choose to move out, you could rent the main house to a family who can help care for your parent. Although this might slightly reduce rental income, it provides reassurance knowing someone is nearby to offer support when needed.

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

For older homeowners who have paid off their mortgage, building an ADU can be a cost-effective option. If you’re in this situation, you could consider using 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 could rent out the main house. The rental income from the house could help cover the payments for the HELOC. While this may sound complicated, it can be a smart way to manage the costs and make it more affordable in the long run.

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 Bell Gardens 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 Bell Gardens

Where can ADUs be built?

ADUs are allowed in residential and mixed-use zones.

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

In Bell Gardens' single-family zones, an ADU can be up to 1,000 square feet and may reach a height of 25 feet.

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

For multi-family zones in Bell Gardens, ADUs can also be as large as 1,000 square feet and up to 25 feet high.

What is the minimum setback for an ADU?

The minimum setback for an ADU in Bell Gardens is 4 feet from the property lines.

What are the safety regulations for an ADU?

While Bell Gardens does not specify, generally, if the main house has fire sprinklers, they are also needed in the ADU.

Is independent access from the main house required?

Yes, an ADU should have its exterior entrance separate from the main house.

What should be considered when designing an ADU for seniors?

ADUs designed for seniors should include ramps, handrails, or wider doorways to ensure accessibility, which may require specific permits.

Can you use a mobile structure as an ADU?

No, mobile homes are not approved for use as ADUs. ADUs must be permanent structures built on a stable foundation, following the California Building or Residential Code.

How fast can you build an ADU?

An ADU project usually takes about 3 to 6 months to complete, depending on permit processes, design, and construction conditions.

What are the rules for ADU ownership in Bell Gardens?

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

Starting January 1, 2025, property owners should live on-site if they build an ADU. This means they need to make either the main house or the ADU their primary, permanent residence. If they fail to do so, their ADU permit could be revoked.

What are the rental regulations for an ADU?

An ADU can be rented out independently from the main house, but it should be leased for a minimum of 31 days in a row.

What permits are needed for an ADU?

Constructing an ADU requires both an ADU permit or a building permit. The ADU should comply with Bell Gardens' development rules, and if it meets all guidelines, the community development director (or a designated representative) will approve the permit within 60 days.

Resources and Where to Start in Bell Gardens

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

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