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ADU Solutions for Aging in Place in Downey
Assisted living facilities are not the preferred option for many elderlies in California, who often choose to stay in their own homes and communities. The main concern is how to maintain their independence without raising expenses, while still receiving the support they need and potentially increasing the value of their home. This article presents a simple solution to meet these needs.
Building an additional living area on your property is a great way to create more space. It’s an affordable option for seniors who want to stay close to family while maintaining their independence. As time goes on, the area can be repurposed to serve different needs.
Understanding ADUs and their Benefits for Aging in Place in Downey
What is an ADU?
An ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) is a small living space built on the same property as a main home. These are sometimes called granny flats or in-law units and include basic amenities like a bedroom, bathroom, and kitchen. They can either be attached to the main home, detached, or by converting an existing space.
Benefits of ADUs for Aging in Place
Adaptable Space: If the ADU is no longer needed for a senior, it can be used by other family members or rented out for extra income.
Affordable Option: Building an ADU is often less expensive than moving into a retirement facility, making it a practical choice for families.
Close to Family: ADUs offer seniors the chance to live near loved ones while still enjoying their independence, with help available when necessary.
Easier to Use: ADUs can be designed to meet the needs of seniors, with wider doors, one-story layouts, and non-slip floors for added safety.
Not sure which ADU option is right for you or your property?
Cali ADU Design + Build
How do you improve the property to fit your elderly parent?
Improving your home to make it safer and more comfortable for an elderly parent, especially if they have memory issues, can help them feel more secure and enjoy daily activities. Small changes like labeling items or rearranging furniture to reduce clutter can make it easier for them to navigate and avoid confusion.
A simple, one-story space with a bedroom, bathroom, and comfortable sitting area is a great idea. Make sure the area is well-lit, add handrails where needed, and choose furniture with soft, rounded corners to reduce the risk of injury. In the kitchen, open shelves or clear cabinets can help make things easier to find.
For extra safety, consider adding motion-sensor lights or smart devices that can alert you if something goes wrong. These adjustments help your parent maintain their independence while giving you peace of mind knowing they're safe and nearby.
What are the economics of building an ADU for the aging-in-place scenario?
If older couples have already paid off their homes, this can provide a financial advantage. In such cases, using a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) could fund the construction of an ADU. After the ADU is ready and your parents move in, renting out the main house could generate income to repay the HELOC. The important part is making sure the rent from the main house is enough to cover the loan payments. While it might seem complicated, breaking it down with a simple example can show how it could be manageable.
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 Downey is $518,748. A loan that has a 6.5% interest rate, requires a monthly payment of $3,279. Ideally, you could rent the main house with at least the same amount as your payments for the HELOC. This way you'll break even on your monthly expenses, while you're having 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 $720,000 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 Downey
Where can ADUs be built?
ADUs are allowed on properties designated for single-family or multi-family homes.
What is the maximum size and height of an ADU in a single-family zone?
In Downey, an ADU in a single-family zone can be up to 1,000 square feet and no higher than 20 feet.
What is the maximum size and height of an ADU in a multi-family zone?
For multi-family zones in Downey, it has a maximum of 1,000 square feet and a height of 25 feet.
What is the minimum setback for an ADU?
The minimum setback for an ADU in Downey is 4 feet from the property lines.
What are the safety regulations for an ADU?
If the main home has a sprinkler system, the ADU should also have one.
Is independent access from the main house required?
Yes, the ADU should have a separate entry that is not connected to the main house.
What should be considered when designing an ADU for seniors?
For seniors, it’s important to add features like ramps, handrails, and wider doorways to make the space easier to navigate. Some of these changes might need additional permits.
Can you use a mobile structure as an ADU?
No, mobile homes cannot be used as ADUs because they lack permanent foundations. ADUs should be built on stable, permanent foundations that comply with California's building standards.
How fast can you build an ADU?
Building an ADU generally takes between 3 to 6 months, depending on factors like permits, design, and site conditions.
What are the rules for ADU ownership in Downey?
Is the property owner required to live in the main house?
Yes, at least one of the homes on the property should be lived in by the owner.
What are the rental regulations for an ADU?
Short-term rentals (less than 30 days) are not allowed in either the main home or the ADU.
What permits are needed for an ADU?
The property owner should get all necessary building permits and inspections before the ADU can be occupied.
Resources and Where to Start in Downey
To get started, Downey residents can reach out to the Downey 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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