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ADU Solutions for Aging in Place in Bellflower
Aging in place is a popular choice for many older Californians who want to remain in the comfort of their own homes and neighborhoods instead of moving to a retirement facility. The main challenge is finding a way to make this arrangement sustainable without adding to monthly expenses, while also ensuring someone can be around to check on your parents and increase the property’s value. This article offers a helpful solution to meet all these goals.
ADUs are a great way to add extra living space to your property. These small, independent units can be tailored to suit the needs of older adults, providing an affordable and practical solution for them to remain close to family while maintaining their independence. Additionally, these units can be easily repurposed for other uses in the future if necessary.
Understanding ADUs and their Benefits for Aging in Place in Bellflower
What is an ADU?
An ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) is a small living space located on the same property as the main house. Often referred to as granny flats, in-law suites, or backyard cottages, these units include a kitchen, bathroom, and living area. They can either be attached to the main house, built as a separate structure, or created by converting an existing space in the home.
Benefits of ADUs for Aging in Place
1. Close to Family. Having an ADU on a relative’s property lets older adults keep their independence while being close to family for support and companionship.
2. More Affordable Than Senior Housing. Building an ADU is often less expensive than moving into an assisted living facility, allowing families to stay together without the need for extra housing.
3. Safety and Comfort. ADUs can be designed with helpful features like wide doorways, single-level layouts, and non-slip floors, making them safer and easier for seniors, particularly those with mobility issues.
4. Flexible for the Future. ADUs offer flexibility for the future. If the senior no longer needs the space, it can be rented out for extra income or used by other family members, ensuring the space remains valuable 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?
Start by thinking about your parent's current needs and how those might change as time goes on. Pay attention to their mobility and what adjustments could help them stay comfortable and safe.
If your parent is still independent but finds stairs challenging, creating a single-level living space could be a good solution. This could have everything they need, like a bedroom, bathroom, kitchen, and living room, all on the same floor, making it easier for them to move around.
Instead of making big changes to your existing home, you might consider adding a separate living unit, like an ADU. Whether it's connected to the main house or a standalone structure, an ADU gives your parent their own space but keeps them close.
If you decide to move out, renting out the main house to a family that can help take care of your parent might be an option. While this could slightly reduce rental income, it provides peace of mind knowing there’s someone nearby to assist if 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 Bellflower is $522,240. A loan that has a 6.5% interest rate, requires a monthly payment of $3,300. 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 $955,200 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 Bellflower
Where can ADUs be built?
ADUs are allowed in certain zones, including SF, A-E, and R-1.
What is the maximum size and height of an ADU in a single-family zone?
In Bellflower's single-family areas, ADUs can be as large as 1,200 square feet and up to 18 feet tall.
What is the maximum size and height of an ADU in a multi-family zone?
In multi-family zones in Bellflower, ADUs can be up to 1,200 square feet and 16 feet tall.
What is the minimum setback for an ADU?
The minimum setback for an ADU in Bellflower is 4 feet from the property lines.
What are the safety regulations for an ADU?
All ADUs should follow building, fire, and safety codes. Fire sprinklers are only required if they are also required in the main house.
Is independent access from the main house required?
Yes, an ADU should have its own exterior access, separate from the main house.
What should be considered when designing an ADU for seniors?
ADUs for seniors should include features like ramps, handrails, or wider doorways for better accessibility, which may require special permits.
Can you use a mobile structure as an ADU?
No, mobile homes cannot be used as ADUs. ADUs should be permanent, built on a solid foundation, and follow building codes.
How fast can you build an ADU?
Building an ADU usually takes between 3 and 6 months, depending on the permit process, design, and construction conditions.
What are the rules for ADU ownership in Bellflower?
Is the property owner required to live in the main house?
Yes, after January 1, 2025, the property owner should live in either the main house or the ADU as their primary home. If this rule is violated, the ADU permit will be revoked.
What are the rental regulations for an ADU?
The ADU should be rented for at least 30 days or longer.
What permits are needed for an ADU?
To build an ADU, you need an ADU permit or a building permit. The ADU should follow Bellflower's development guidelines, and if everything is in order, the permit will be approved by the community development director or their representative within 60 days.
Resources and Where to Start in Bellflower
To get started, Bellflower residents can reach out to the Bellflower City Planning Department for ADU guidelines and zoning details.
ADU Analysis shows the maximum ADU size for the best return on your property.
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