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ADU Solutions for Aging in Place in San Gabriel
Many seniors in California choose to stay in their own homes and familiar neighborhoods for the comfort and independence it provides, instead of moving to an assisted living facility. The challenge is finding an affordable way to make this possible, while also ensuring they have the support they need and increasing the value of their property. This article explores an easy solution to address these concerns.
Building an ADU on your property provides a cozy and secure space that meets specific needs. These compact homes offer an affordable option for seniors, letting them remain near family and easily adapt to life’s changes.
Understanding ADUs and their Benefits for Aging in Place in San Gabriel
What is an ADU?
An ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) is a small, independent living area located on the same property as the main home. It can be a separate building, an extension of the house, or even a converted garage. These units typically include everything needed for comfortable living, like a bedroom, kitchen, and bathroom, providing seniors with their own space while staying close to family.
Benefits of ADUs for Aging in Place
1. Adapts to Changing Needs:
ADUs can be used for family members or caregivers and can even be rented out later, offering flexibility as life circumstances change.
2. Staying Close to Family:
Living near loved ones allows seniors to remain independent while having emotional support and staying in a familiar environment.
3. Cost-Effective Option:
Building an ADU is often less expensive than moving to a retirement home, and it allows families to share the costs.
4. Safety Features:
Design elements like ramps, wider doorways, and non-slip flooring make ADUs safer and more accessible for older adults.
Not sure which ADU option is right for you or your property?
Leonard ADU Garage Conversion
How do you improve the property to fit your elderly parent?
Building a dedicated space for your elderly parent allows them to maintain their independence while staying close to the family. Staying connected socially is essential for their health, so it's key to design a living space that provides both privacy and opportunities for family time.
An ADU creates a private living area right next to your home, so it’s easy for the family to drop by or help out. A cozy dining or living room can make a great spot for togetherness, and a porch or garden can offer a peaceful space to unwind.
To enhance safety and comfort, consider adding features like ramps, bright lights, and furniture that’s easy to move around.
By placing the ADU near your home, your parent has their own space but remain within reach of family support, helping them feel independent yet cared for.
What are the economics of building an ADU for the aging-in-place scenario?
The good news, many older couples have already paid off their homes, giving them more options financially. If that’s your case, you could use a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) to finance building an ADU. After the ADU is ready and your parents move in, renting out the main house could help cover the HELOC payments. The key is making sure the rent from the main house is enough to handle those payments. While it might seem a little challenging, this method can help you calculate your costs and expected income.
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 San Gabriel is $520,632. A loan that has 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 $600,000 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 San Gabriel
Where can ADUs be built?
ADUs can be built on properties that are zoned for either single-family homes or multi-family buildings.
What is the maximum size and height of an ADU in a single-family zone?
In single-family areas, ADUs can be as large as 1,000 square feet and can be up to 16 feet tall.
What is the maximum size and height of an ADU in a multi-family zone?
In multi-family areas, ADUs can also be up to 1,000 square feet in size and 16 feet in height.
What is the minimum setback for an ADU?
The minimum setback for an ADU in San Gabriel is 4 feet.
What are the safety regulations for an ADU?
If the primary home requires fire sprinklers, the ADU will also need them. However, adding an ADU doesn’t automatically require sprinklers in the main home.
Is independent access from the main house required?
Yes, the ADU must have its own exterior entrance separate from the main house.
What should be considered when designing an ADU for seniors?
To make the ADU more senior-friendly, consider adding ramps, wider doors, and handrails. You may need extra permits for these modifications.
Can you use a mobile structure as an ADU?
No, mobile homes aren’t suitable for ADUs because they are supported by temporary structures. ADUs should be built on a permanent foundation and comply with the California Building or Residential Codes.
How fast can you build an ADU?
Building an ADU usually takes between three and six months, including the time needed for permits and construction.
What are the rules for ADU ownership in San Gabriel?
Is the property owner required to live in the main house?
The San Gabriel Municipal Code doesn’t state whether the property owner should live in the main house.
What are the rental regulations for an ADU?
ADUs can be rented. However, the rental period should be longer than 30 days.
What permits are needed for an ADU?
To build or convert an ADU, you’ll need a building permit. This covers approval for any changes to the building structure, plumbing, and electrical work.
Resources and Where to Start in San Gabriel
To get started, San Gabriel residents can reach out to the San Gabriel 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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