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ADU Solutions for Aging in Place in Westlake Village
Finding ways for seniors in California to remain in their homes and communities comfortably and independently is crucial. The difficulty is identifying a cost-effective option that provides the right support while potentially boosting property value. This piece explores a simple and practical approach to address these issues.
Adding a compact home to your property creates a safe and comfortable space tailored for seniors. These homes can be customized to ensure they are easy to navigate and secure for older loved ones. They offer a budget-friendly, long-lasting solution that can be adjusted as needs evolve.
Understanding ADUs and their Benefits for Aging in Place in Westlake Village
What is an ADU?
An ADU, or Accessory Dwelling Unit, is a small, independent home built on the same property as the main house. Sometimes called backyard cottages or granny flats, these units include a kitchen, bathroom, and living area. They can be standalone structures, additions to the main house, or renovations of existing spaces like garages.
Benefits of ADUs for Aging in Place
Enhanced Safety and Ease of Use
ADUs can be equipped with features like single-story designs, wider doorways, grab bars, and slip-resistant flooring, making them safer and more accessible for seniors.
Versatile for Changing Needs
ADUs offer flexibility, serving as housing for seniors, caregivers, or even a source of rental income if no longer required for senior use. This adaptability makes them a practical long-term choice.
Staying Connected with Family
For seniors, moving away from familiar surroundings can be hard. An ADU lets them maintain independence while staying near family for support, creating a balance of privacy and closeness.
Affordable Living Solution
Building an ADU is often less expensive than moving into a retirement facility. It also allows families to share one property, reducing housing costs and promoting multigenerational living.
Not sure which ADU option is right for you or your property?
Home to Home
How do you improve the property to fit your elderly parent?
Older adults often face loneliness, which can impact their overall health. When creating or updating a small home for your elderly parent, it’s essential to think about their physical comfort and how to keep them socially engaged.
A small home like an ADU gives your parent their own private space with a separate entrance, while still being close to the main house for support. To help them feel connected, design the space with inviting features like a cozy living area or a small dining spot for family gatherings. Outdoor additions like a porch or garden can provide opportunities for meeting neighbors and enjoying fresh air.
For parents with mobility challenges, adding features like ramps, brighter lighting, and easily accessible seating can make it easier for them to move around and stay involved.
Having this living space close to family allows your parent to maintain their independence while reducing feelings of isolation. A thoughtful mix of privacy, comfort, and accessibility will help ensure they remain happy and healthy.
What are the economics of building an ADU for the aging-in-place scenario?
The good news is that many older homeowners have already paid off their mortgages, giving them more financial flexibility. If this applies to you, you could consider using a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) to fund the construction of an ADU. Once the ADU is finished and your parents have moved in, renting out the main house can help pay off the HELOC. The important factor here is ensuring that the rental income from the main house covers the payments. While it may seem a bit complicated, this approach allows you to estimate both your expenses and potential earnings.
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 Westlake Village is $530,268. A loan that has a 6.5% interest rate, requires a monthly payment of $3,351. 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 $960,000 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 Westlake Village
Where can ADUs be built?
ADUs are allowed in specific areas such as single-family residential zones (R-1), residential planned development zones (RPD), and certain mixed-use districts like Lindero and Corsa in the North Business Park.
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 1,200 square feet in size and 25 feet tall.
What is the maximum size and height of an ADU in a multi-family zone?
Multi-family zones also permit ADUs with a maximum size of 1,200 square feet and a height limit of 25 feet.
What is the minimum setback for an ADU?
The minimum setback for an ADU in Westlake Village is 4 feet.
What are the safety regulations for an ADU?
If the main house needs fire sprinklers, the ADU should have them too.
Is independent access from the main house required?
Yes, the ADU should have a separate entrance from the main house.
What should be considered when designing an ADU for seniors?
Consider adding features like ramps, wider doors, and handrails to make the space accessible. These changes may require special approvals.
Can you use a mobile structure as an ADU?
No, ADUs should be constructed on permanent foundations and follow California building codes.
How fast can you build an ADU?
Typically, it takes between 3 and 6 months to complete an ADU, depending on permits, design, and construction.
What are the rules for ADU ownership in Westlake Village?
Is the property owner required to live in the main house?
For ADUs approved after January 1, 2025, either the main house or the ADU should be the primary residence of the property owner for the unit to be considered legal and livable.
What are the rental regulations for an ADU?
Although Westlake Village doesn’t specify detailed guidelines, ADUs are typically allowed only for long-term rentals lasting 30 days or more.
What permits are needed for an ADU?
You’ll need building permits for any construction work, including plumbing, electrical, or mechanical upgrades.
Resources and Where to Start in Westlake Village
To get started, Westlake Village residents can reach out to the Westlake Village City Planning Department for ADU guidelines and zoning details.