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ADU Solutions for Aging in Place in Glendale
Remaining in their own homes gives many older adults in California the comfort and independence they prefer over moving to a senior care facility. The challenge lies in finding ways to offer the necessary support without raising monthly expenses and, at the same time, possibly boosting their property’s value. This article offers an easy solution to address these needs.
ADUs are an excellent option for adding extra living space to your family’s property. These compact, independent units can be customized with features that ensure safety and meet the needs of seniors, providing an affordable and lasting housing solution. They allow seniors to stay connected to their community and can be adjusted over time to accommodate changing needs.
Understanding ADUs and their Benefits for Aging in Place in Glendale
What is an ADU?
An Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is a small home located on the same property as a larger main house. These units, often called granny flats or in-law suites, typically include essential amenities such as a bedroom, bathroom, and kitchen. They can be built as a separate structure, attached to the main house, or created by converting an existing space like a garage.
Benefits of ADUs for Aging in Place
Adaptable: If a senior no longer occupies the ADU, it can serve other family members or be rented out for extra income.
Cost-Effective: Constructing an ADU tends to cost less than moving into a retirement home, offering families a budget-friendly alternative.
Close to Loved Ones: ADUs enable seniors to stay near family while maintaining their independence, with support close by if needed.
Senior-Friendly: ADUs can be customized with features like wider doorways, step-free floors, and slip-resistant surfaces, ensuring a safe and comfortable environment for aging adults.
Not sure which ADU option is right for you or your property?
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How do you improve the property to fit your elderly parent?
Creating a safe and comfortable space for an aging parent, particularly if they face memory challenges, can make their daily life easier and more enjoyable. Simple adjustments, such as using labels or reorganizing furniture to eliminate clutter, can help them navigate the home with less confusion.
A practical solution is to set up a single-level area with essential features like a bedroom, bathroom, and comfortable seating. Ensure the space has good lighting, install handrails where necessary, and opt for furniture with smooth, rounded edges to minimize injury risks. In the kitchen, using open shelving or transparent cabinet doors can make items easier to locate.
For extra security, you might add motion-sensor lights or smart home devices that provide alerts in case of emergencies. These improvements not only support your parent’s independence but also reassure you that they are safe and nearby.
What are the economics of building an ADU for the aging-in-place scenario?
For older couples who have already paid off their mortgage, using a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) to fund an ADU can be a financially smart choice. Once the ADU is built and your parents move in, renting out the main house could generate enough income to cover the HELOC payments. The key is ensuring the main house's rent is sufficient to cover the loan.
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. A 1,200 sq. ft. ADU in Glendale specifically in the Woodbury neighborhood is $520,680. A loan with a 6.5% interest rate, requires a monthly payment of $3,291. 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 $840,000 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 Glendale
Where can ADUs be built?
ADUs can be built only on properties designated for residential or mixed-use purposes.
What is the maximum size and height of an ADU in a single-family zone?
In Glendale, an ADU on a single-family lot can be up to 1,000 square feet in size and 25 feet in height.
What is the maximum size and height of an ADU in a multi-family zone?
For multi-family properties in Glendale, ADUs are also restricted to a maximum of 1,000 square feet but can only be 20 feet tall.
What is the minimum setback for an ADU?
The minimum setback for an ADU in Glendale is 4 feet from the property lines.
What are the safety regulations for an ADU?
Fire sprinklers are required for ADUs if they are already required for the main residence. Adding an ADU doesn’t mean sprinklers should also be installed in the main building unless otherwise necessary.
Is independent access from the main house required?
Although Glendale’s rules don’t specifically address this, most cities generally require an ADU to have a separate entrance from the main home.
What should be considered when designing an ADU for seniors?
Designing an ADU for seniors should include accessibility features such as ramps, handrails, and wider doorways. Some of these additions may need special permits.
Can you use a mobile structure as an ADU?
No, mobile homes cannot serve as ADUs since they don’t have permanent foundations. ADUs should meet California's construction standards and be built on stable foundations.
How fast can you build an ADU?
Construction typically takes around 3 to 6 months, depending on factors such as obtaining permits, finalizing the design, and preparing the site.
What are the rules for ADU ownership in Glendale?
Is the property owner required to live in the main house?
The Glendale Municipal Code does not specify if the property owner should live in the main house.
What are the rental regulations for an ADU?
While Glendale doesn’t explicitly mention it, ADUs are commonly limited to rentals lasting at least 30 days.
What permits are needed for an ADU?
A building permit is necessary for constructing an ADU.
Resources and Where to Start in Glendale
To get started, Glendale residents can reach out to the Glendale 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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