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ADU Solutions for Aging in Place in La Verne
ADUs can provide a great solution for older adults in California who want to stay in their homes as they age. It allows them to maintain their independence while staying close to family. The challenge is finding a way to make this work without adding extra costs, while also improving safety and increasing the property's value. This article looks at how this can be achieved.
Building an ADU on your property is a great way to add extra living space. These smaller homes can be designed to be safe and comfortable for seniors. They offer an affordable, lasting option that lets older adults stay nearby while adapting to their needs as they get older.
Understanding ADUs and their Benefits for Aging in Place in La Verne
What is an ADU?
An ADU or Accessory Dwelling Unit is a smaller home built on the same lot as your main house. It could be a separate structure, attached to the main house, or even a converted space like a garage. These units come with essential living areas such as a bedroom, kitchen, and bathroom, making them perfect for independent living.
Benefits of ADUs for Aging in Place
Affordable Option. ADUs offer an affordable choice compared to moving into a retirement home. They also help save money by allowing families to live on the same property instead of having separate homes.
Built for Safety and Comfort. ADUs can be designed with features like ramps, wider doors, handrails, and non-slip floors, making them safer and easier for older adults to navigate.
Close to Loved Ones. These units allow seniors to live near family in a familiar space, avoiding the stress of relocating far from home.
Adaptable for Changing Needs. ADUs are flexible and can be updated as needs change. They can provide space for caregivers, accommodate family members, or even be rented out in the future, making them a smart long-term investment.
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?
Making a few easy changes around the house can help your aging parent feel safer and more comfortable, especially if they have memory challenges. For example, labeling common items or clearing out unnecessary furniture can help them find things easily and move around without tripping hazards.
You could set up a space on a one-level ADU that includes a bedroom, bathroom, and a cozy area to relax. Be sure the area is bright, add handrails in key places, and choose furniture with soft, rounded corners to prevent accidents. In the kitchen, open shelving or cabinets with clear doors can make it simpler for them to spot what they need.
To improve safety, you might install motion-sensor lights or use smart devices that can alert you in case of an emergency. These changes will help your parent stay independent while ensuring they are close to family and safe at home.
What are the economics of building an ADU for the aging-in-place scenario?
For older couples who no longer have a mortgage, taking out a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) to build an ADU can be a practical option. After the ADU is finished and the parents move into it, the main house can be rented out. The income from renting the house might be enough to pay off the loan, making it a cost-effective solution. The important part is ensuring the rent from the main house is high enough to cover the loan payments.
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 La Verne is $529,764. A loan that has a 6.5% interest rate, requires a monthly payment of $3,349. 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 $660,000 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 La Verne
Where can ADUs be built?
ADUs can be built on properties with the following zones: A-1, PR-1/5, PR-1D, PR-2D, PR-3D, PR-4.5D, PR-5D, PR-6A, PR-7A, PR-7.5A, PR-8A, PR-10A, PR-15A and C-P-D.
What is the maximum size and height of an ADU in a single-family zone?
In La Verne, ADUs on single-family properties can be as large as 1,000 square feet and up to 25 feet tall.
What is the maximum size and height of an ADU in a multi-family zone?
On multi-family properties in La Verne, ADUs can also be up to 1,000 square feet and 25 feet tall.
What is the minimum setback for an ADU?
The minimum setback for an ADU in La Verne is 4 feet from the property lines.
What are the safety regulations for an ADU?
If the main house has fire sprinklers, they should be included in the ADU as well. However, building an ADU does not require the main house to install sprinklers if they aren't already needed.
Is independent access from the main house required?
Yes, an ADU should have its entrance separate from the main house.
What should be considered when designing an ADU for seniors?
In La Verne, ADUs for seniors might need special design features like ramps or handrails, and possibly additional permits for accessibility.
Can you use a mobile structure as an ADU?
Mobile homes cannot be used as ADUs because they lack permanent foundations. ADUs should be built on solid, long-lasting foundations that meet local standards.
How fast can you build an ADU?
Building an ADU usually takes 3 to 6 months, depending on the complexity of the project and required permits.
What are the rules for ADU ownership in La Verne?
Is the property owner required to live in the main house?
The city will not enforce any rules about the property owner needing to live in either the main house or the ADU until January 1, 2025. Units approved between January 1, 2020, and January 1, 2025, are not required to have the owner living on the property.
What are the rental regulations for an ADU?
ADUs can only be rented out for a minimum of 30 days at a time.
What permits are needed for an ADU?
To build or convert an ADU, you'll need a building permit. This includes approvals for things like construction, plumbing, electrical, and other necessary systems.
Resources and Where to Start in La Verne
To get started, La Verne residents can reach out to the La Verne 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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