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ADU Solutions for Aging in Place in San Marino
A lot of older adults in California prefer to remain in their own homes and communities because it offers them comfort and independence, rather than relocating to a care facility. The challenge is finding an affordable way to make this work while ensuring they have the necessary support and enhancing their home’s value. This article presents a simple solution to meet these needs.
ADUs provide a smart solution by adding safe and customizable living spaces to your family's property. These compact, standalone units can be tailored to meet the specific needs of seniors, with safety features and adaptable designs. They offer a cost-effective, long-term housing option that keeps seniors close to their community and provides flexibility for future needs.
Understanding ADUs and their Benefits for Aging in Place in San Marino
What is an ADU?
An ADU, or Accessory Dwelling Unit, is a small, separate living space located on the same property as a main house. Also known as granny flats, in-law units, or backyard cottages, an ADU comes with its own kitchen, bathroom, and living area. These units can be built as a separate structure, attached to the main house, or by converting existing space within the main house.
Benefits of ADUs for Aging in Place
Close to Family and Support
Moving away from one’s long-time home can be very difficult for seniors, as it often means leaving behind friends and familiar social connections. Having an ADU on the same property allows seniors to live independently while still being close to family members who can offer support when needed. This set-up provides comfort and security for both seniors and their families.
Cost-Effective
Building an ADU is often a more affordable option compared to moving into a retirement home. It also allows families to save money by keeping multiple generations close together without the need for additional properties.
Customizable for Safety and Accessibility
ADUs can be designed with features like single-story layouts, wider doorways, grab bars, and non-slip flooring to make daily activities safer and more accessible for seniors with limited mobility.
Long-Term Flexibility
ADUs offer flexible living space options. They can be used by family members or caregivers or even rented out to generate extra income if they’re no longer needed for senior living. This adaptability makes them a smart investment for the future.
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?
As people age, they may struggle with feelings of loneliness due to losing friends, family, or social opportunities. This can negatively affect both their mental and physical health. When making changes to your property for an elderly parent, it's essential to address their physical needs while also making sure they can stay socially connected.
An ADU offers a private living space with its own entrance, but since it’s on the same property as the main house, it provides easy access to family support and interaction. To help reduce isolation, create spaces that encourage socializing, like a comfortable living room or a small dining area for family gatherings. Adding outdoor spaces like a porch or garden gives your parent a chance to engage with neighbors or enjoy nature.
Consider mobility issues when planning the ADU, as they can affect your parent’s ability to socialize. Features like ramps, better lighting, and easy-to-access seating can help your parent move around comfortably and interact with others more easily, whether indoors or outside.
With the ADU close by, your parent can enjoy independence while still being part of family life, which helps prevent loneliness. This combination of privacy, accessibility, and ease of movement supports their overall health and happiness.
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 Marino is $522,648. A loan that has a 6.5% interest rate, requires a monthly payment of $3,303. 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 $1,080,000 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 Marino
Where can ADUs be built?
ADUs can be constructed on properties zoned for residential purposes.
What is the maximum size and height of an ADU in a single-family zone?
In areas designated for single-family homes, ADUs can be up to 1,000 square feet in size and can be as tall as 16 feet.
What is the maximum size and height of an ADU in a multi-family zone?
San Marino does not allow ADUs on multi-family properties.
What is the minimum setback for an ADU?
The minimum setback for an ADU in San Marino is 4 feet.
What are the safety regulations for an ADU?
If the main house has fire sprinklers or alarms, these should also be installed in the ADU. If the main house needs these before occupancy, the ADU will also require them.
Is independent access from the main house required?
Yes, the ADU should have its exterior entrance, separate from the main house. This entrance should be positioned to maintain privacy for both the ADU and the main house and should not be visible from the street.
What should be considered when designing an ADU for seniors?
To make the ADU more senior-friendly, features like ramps, wider doors, and handrails can be added. Additional permits might be required for these changes.
Can you use a mobile structure as an ADU?
No, mobile homes can't be used as ADUs because they rest on temporary supports. ADUs need to be built on a permanent foundation and follow California’s building standards.
How fast can you build an ADU?
Typically, building an ADU takes about three to six months, including time for permits and construction.
What are the rules for ADU ownership in San Marino?
Is the property owner required to live in the main house?
The local rules in San Marino don't specify whether the property owner should live in the main house.
What are the rental regulations for an ADU?
If you rent out an ADU, the rental period should be at least 90 days in a row.
What permits are needed for an ADU?
To construct or convert an ADU, a building permit is required. This permit covers changes to the structure, plumbing, and electrical systems.
Resources and Where to Start in San Marino
To get started, San Marino residents can reach out to the San Marino City Planning Department for ADU guidelines and zoning details.