Unsplash
ADU Solutions for Aging in Place in Temple City
How can seniors in California stay in the homes and communities they cherish while feeling comfortable and independent? The main challenge is figuring out an affordable way to make this happen, ensuring they get the support they need, and even adding value to the property. This discussion offers a straightforward approach to address these concerns.
Adding a small, small home to your property is a practical way to create a safe and cozy space for seniors. These units can include features like enhanced safety designs, making them a great choice for aging family members. They are cost-effective and long-lasting, providing a nearby living solution that can also be adjusted as needs change over time.
Understanding ADUs and their Benefits for Aging in Place in Temple City
What is an ADU?
An ADU, or Accessory Dwelling Unit, is a small home built on the same property as a main house. Sometimes called granny flats or backyard cottages, these units include a kitchen, bathroom, and living space. They can stand alone, be attached to the main house, or come from converting part of the existing home.
Benefits of ADUs for Aging in Place
(1) Staying Close to Family
ADUs allow seniors to live independently while remaining near loved ones. This setup keeps family support nearby, easing the transition of aging while maintaining familiar surroundings.
(2) Affordable Housing Option
Building an ADU often costs less than moving into an assisted living facility. It also avoids the need to purchase or rent another home, which helps families save money over time.
(3) Safe and Accessible Living Space
ADUs can include features like ramps, wide doors, handrails, and slip-resistant flooring. These adjustments ensure the space is safe and easy to use for seniors, providing both comfort and security.
(4) Adapts to Future Needs
ADUs are flexible and can be used for different purposes over time. They can house caregivers, and family members, or even be rented out for extra income, making them a practical 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?
Social isolation often becomes a concern for older adults, as fewer opportunities to interact with friends and family can impact both their mental and physical health. Designing an ADU that supports your parent’s physical needs while fostering social connections can help address this challenge.
An ADU, a separate living space on the same property as your home, offers privacy while keeping your parent close for regular family interaction. To encourage connection, include inviting spaces like a comfortable living room or a dining area where loved ones can gather. Outdoor elements, such as a garden or a porch, can create additional opportunities for fresh air and conversations with neighbors.
Mobility challenges can make it harder for your parent to stay socially engaged, so it’s important to include thoughtful features. Accessible ramps, proper lighting, and easily reachable seating areas can make navigating the space more manageable and promote social interaction.
With the ADU nearby, your parent can enjoy a mix of independence and support, staying connected to family while avoiding loneliness. This thoughtful approach can enhance their quality of life and overall well-being.
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 Temple City is $523,764. A loan that has a 6.5% interest rate, requires a monthly payment of $3,310. 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 $1,200,000 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 Temple City
Where can ADUs be built?
ADUs can be added to properties designated for single-family or multi-family housing.
What is the maximum size and height of an ADU in a single-family zone?
In single-family zones, an ADU can be up to 1,000 square feet in size and 16 feet in height.
What is the maximum size and height of an ADU in a multi-family zone?
The same limits apply in multi-family zones: up to 1,000 square feet and 16 feet tall.
What is the minimum setback for an ADU?
The minimum setback for an ADU in Temple City is 4 feet.
What are the safety regulations for an ADU?
Fire sprinklers are generally required for ADUs. However, if the main house doesn’t need fire sprinklers, the ADU might not either.
Is independent access from the main house required?
Yes, an ADU should have its exterior door, separate from the main house.
What should be considered when designing an ADU for seniors?
For seniors, consider features like ramps, wider doorways, and handrails to improve accessibility. These changes might need additional permits.
Can you use a mobile structure as an ADU?
No, ADUs should be built on permanent foundations and meet California building standards, so mobile homes don’t qualify.
How fast can you build an ADU?
An ADU can typically be built in 3 to 6 months, depending on factors like permits, design, and construction conditions.
What are the rules for ADU ownership in Temple City?
Is the property owner required to live in the main house?
The property owner should live on the property unless the owner is a government agency, land trust, or housing organization.
What are the rental regulations for an ADU?
Short-term rentals (less than 30 days) are not allowed for ADUs or the main home on the property.
What permits are needed for an ADU?
Before starting, you’ll need a permit that covers the construction and any plumbing, electrical, or mechanical work required. If your application is complete and the ADU is associated with an existing single-family or multi-family home, the city will decide to approve or deny it within 60 days.
Resources and Where to Start in Temple City
To get started, Temple City residents can reach out to the Temple City Planning Department for ADU guidelines and zoning details.