Accessory dwelling units, or ADUs, are becoming more popular in California as a way to help solve the housing crisis. These units can be attached to or detached from a primary residence. They can be used for various purposes, including rental income or as an auxiliary unit for family members. Thanks to recent legislation that has made it easier to build ADUs, more and more people are taking advantage of this option and finding creative ways to use them. In this article, we will explore how ADUs are helping to solve the housing crisis in California and what you need to know about them.
Accessibility
ADUs can help to make neighborhoods more accessible for people with disabilities. By having an ADU on your property, you can provide a place for someone who may not be able to live independently to stay close by. This can be a lifesaver for families struggling to care for an aging parent or a disabled family member. Pedram Zohrevand, the President of CES4 based partially in California, expands on the possibility of having an ADU accessible to all units on the lot.
Affordability
One of the best things about ADUs is that they can be built relatively cheaply. This means that more people can afford to make them, which can help increase the number of social interactions in a neighborhood. Additionally, because they are typically smaller than traditional homes, they require less energy to heat and cool, saving money for both the homeowner and the community.
Privacy
Another advantage of ADUs is that they offer privacy for both the homeowner and the tenant. The homeowner can have a private living space while still renting out the unit, and the tenant can have their own space without feeling like they are intruding on the homeowners’ privacy. This can be particularly beneficial for families with young children or those working from home and needing a quiet space to concentrate.
Location
ADUs can be built almost anywhere, which makes them an excellent option for people who want to live in a specific neighborhood but can’t afford the rent or the mortgage. Additionally, because they are often smaller than traditional homes, they can be built on smaller pieces of land, which means they can be located in more densely populated areas. As noted by Pedram Zohrevand, however, building codes do affect how close the ADU can be to the main building.
Diversity
Another benefit of ADUs is that they can help increase a neighborhood’s diversity. By providing more housing options, ADUs can attract a broader range of people, including families with children, seniors, and people with special needs. This can help create a more vibrant and inclusive community for everyone.
Sustainability
ADUs are also more sustainable than traditional homes, thanks to their smaller size and the use of recycled materials. Additionally, because they are typically built on existing infrastructure, they have a smaller environmental footprint than new construction. This makes them an ideal option for those who want to reduce their carbon footprint and live more sustainably.
The Bigger Picture
As the cost of living in California continues to rise, many people are finding it difficult to afford a place to live. This is especially true in larger cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles, where the median home price is now well over $1M. The median home price in the state is over $800,000, and rent prices are not far behind. For many people, the only option is to move out of state or into smaller, more affordable towns.
Accessory dwelling units can provide a much-needed solution to the housing crisis. These units can be used as rental income property or for auxiliary family members, offering several benefits. For one, they can help offset the cost of living in California. Additionally, ADUs can provide extra space for families struggling to find affordable housing.
Building Your Own
If you’re considering building an ADU, there are a few things you need to know. First, you’ll need to obtain the proper permits from your city or county. Next, you’ll need to find a contractor who is experienced in building ADUs. Finally, you’ll need to know the costs associated with building an ADU, ranging from $20,000 to $100,000 or more.
Building an ADU is a great way to help solve the housing crisis in California. These units offer many benefits and can be a great source of rental income or extra space for families. If you’re considering building an ADU, research and find a reputable contractor to help you through the process.