ADUs have long been an affordable solution to housing crunches that have occurred at various points throughout history. In the past, people often referred to these smaller houses on properties as in-law suites or granny flats. Today, people are using these units as a permanent type of housing that fits the needs of everyone from college students to seniors. Below, the pros from Forever Builders, the custom home builders Costa Mesa residents trust for exceptional craftsmanship and outstanding service, take a look at how and when you can live in an ADU in California, giving you insight into how these smaller buildings could serve as living spaces.
Know the Requirements for an ADU
The requirements for ADUs are meant to make them habitable. For instance, a full-sized ADU must have a kitchen that meets sizing requirements and has specific appliances that contribute to the ability to cook meals. Junior ADUs are no longer required to have bathrooms as long as there are ones accessible in the primary residence. However, most people install bathrooms in ADUs they plan to live in full-time.
Understand How the New Laws Influence Ownership
In California, the laws regarding ADUs have loosened up over the years. As a property owner, you have more freedom regarding what you do with an ADU along with what you choose to include in the building plans and design. One of the newest laws allows ADUs to be sold as condominiums. Under AB 1033, an ADU can be separately owned by a party other than the owner of the primary residence on the property. Being able to sell an ADU once you no longer need it for a secondary residence allows you to open up a new source of revenue, which is beneficial for people on fixed incomes, such as seniors.
Build an ADU as Independent Housing for Loved Ones
Similar to how people used in-law suites in the past, you might opt to have your senior parents move into an ADU on your property. This allows them to continue to enjoy their independence while benefiting from having their family nearby to help if they fall ill or need to recover from injuries. Alternatively, you might choose to live in an ADU while you provide care to your senior loved ones who live in the primary residence. ADUs also make perfect starter homes for young adults who may be transitioning to living on their own.
Consider Living in an ADU & Renting the Primary Residence
Maximizing the returns you get on your investment in a primary home is possible when you choose to swap houses. Although you’ll need to follow the codes and ordinances of local governing entities such as HOAs, you may have the option of renting out your former primary residence. Since the larger home can bring in more rental income compared to the ADU, you may find it advantageous to temporarily live in the smaller unit. Alternatively, you could move between the homes, depending on the demand for rental properties.
When you’re ready to add an ADU to your home, make sure to hire the best contractors in the business. The team from Forever Builders are the ADU contractors Costa Mesa homeowners can trust to provide the most affordable home remodeling services and ensure their visions become reality. From design to completion, we’ll help you create the home you’ve always wanted, meeting all your expectations while keeping your costs within budget. To find out more about our outstanding remodeling services, give one of our friendly team members a call today.