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ADU Solutions for Aging in Place in South El Monte

In California, many seniors choose to remain in their own homes and neighborhoods because it allows them to maintain their independence and feel more at ease, instead of relocating to a care facility. The difficulty is finding an affordable way to make this possible while ensuring they get the support they need and boosting the value of their property. This article provides a straightforward solution to these concerns.

ADUs are a great way to create safe and comfortable living spaces on your property. These small, separate homes can be designed with features that make them ideal for older adults, such as added safety measures. They’re an affordable and durable option that allows seniors to stay near family while also being adaptable to future needs.

Understanding ADUs and their Benefits for Aging in Place in South El Monte

What is an ADU?

ADUs, or Accessory Dwelling Units, are smaller homes built on the same property as a main house. They’re often called granny flats or backyard cottages. These units come with their own kitchen, bathroom, and living space, and can be separate buildings, attached to the main house, or converted spaces within the home.

Benefits of ADUs for Aging in Place

Staying Connected to Family
Moving away from home can be hard for seniors who want to stay near loved ones and familiar surroundings. ADUs offer a way to remain close to family while keeping their independence. Family members can provide support easily, creating peace of mind for everyone.

Cost-Effective Compared to Assisted Living
Building an ADU costs less than living in an assisted care facility. It also eliminates the need to buy or rent another home, saving families money over time.

Built for Comfort and Safety
ADUs can be customized with features like ramps, handrails, wide doorways, and non-slip floors to make them safe and accessible for seniors, creating a secure and comfortable space.

Flexible for the Future
ADUs are multi-purpose spaces that can be adapted as needs change. Family members or caregivers can use them, or they can even be rented out for extra income when not needed for senior living. This makes them a practical, long-term addition to any property.

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?

As people grow older, staying connected with loved ones is crucial for their emotional well-being. If you’re considering home improvements for an elderly parent, focus on making their space both comfortable and accessible while encouraging social interaction.

Building an ADU on your property can be a great solution. These small, private homes have their entrance but are close enough for families to provide support when needed. To help prevent loneliness, include spaces that promote interaction, like a cozy living area or a dining spot where family meals can be shared. Adding features like a small porch or garden can also create opportunities for your parent to enjoy fresh air or chat with neighbors.

When planning the ADU, consider any physical limitations your parent might have. Design features like ramps, bright lighting, and furniture that’s easy to use can make it easier for them to move around and stay involved in daily life.

An ADU offers your parent the chance to maintain their independence while staying close to family, blending privacy with meaningful connections to improve their quality of life.

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 South El Monte is $523,776. A loan that has a 6.5% interest rate, requires a monthly payment of $3,311. 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 South El Monte

Where can ADUs be built?

ADUs can be added to properties zoned for either single-family or multi-family use.

What is the maximum size and height of an ADU in a single-family zone?

In single-family zones, ADUs can be up to 1,000 square feet and 16 feet tall.

What is the maximum size and height of an ADU in a multi-family zone?

In multi-family zones, the maximum size and height remain the same: 1,000 square feet and 16 feet tall.

What is the minimum setback for an ADU?

The minimum setback for an ADU in South El Monte is 4 feet.

What are the safety regulations for an ADU?

While South El Monte does not specify, generally, if the main house has fire sprinklers, they are also needed in the ADU.

Is independent access from the main house required?

Yes, an ADU should have its own separate exterior entrance.

What should be considered when designing an ADU for seniors?

Designing an ADU for seniors may involve adding ramps, wider doorways, and handrails to improve accessibility. Keep in mind that some of these adjustments might require extra permits.

Can you use a mobile structure as an ADU?

No, mobile homes are not allowed as ADUs because they should be built on permanent foundations that comply with California’s building codes.

How fast can you build an ADU?

Building an ADU, including permits and construction, usually takes 3 to 6 months.

What are the rules for ADU ownership in South El Monte?

Is the property owner required to live in the main house?

South El Monte’s local rules don’t clarify whether the homeowner should reside in the main house.

What are the rental regulations for an ADU?

ADUs can only be rented out for periods longer than 30 days.

What permits are needed for an ADU?

A building permit is necessary to build or convert an ADU. This permit ensures all updates, including structural changes, plumbing, and electrical work, meet required standards.

Resources and Where to Start in South El Monte

To get started, South El Monte residents can reach out to the South El Monte City Planning Department for ADU guidelines and zoning details.

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