They Built It for Mom—Then Turned It Into a Rental. Here’s What Happened.
“They Built It for Mom—Then Turned It Into a Rental. Here’s What Happened.” - Randy Loch
When the Ramirez family decided to build an ADU in their Pasadena backyard, their goal was simple: give their elderly mother a safe, private place to live near the family. They didn't see it as a rental or an investment — it was an act of love.
Designing for Dignity
The design of the ADU was carefully thought out. At 500 square feet, it included a cozy living room, full kitchen, ADA-friendly bathroom with a roll-in shower, and large windows for natural light. They chose a single-story layout with a private entry, no stairs, wide doors, and non-slip flooring.
The Build
Construction cost $198,000 and took just over six months, with delays mostly related to permitting. But once it was complete, their mother moved in and thrived in her new space. She enjoyed morning walks in the backyard garden, independent meal prep, and regular visits with her grandchildren — all while having her own space.
Then Things Changed
In late 2023, her health deteriorated, and the family made the difficult decision to move her into full-time assisted care. The ADU now sat empty.
Turning It Into a Rental
Instead of letting it sit unused, the Ramirezes cleaned it, added some fresh paint, and listed the unit online. Within 48 hours, they received over a dozen serious inquiries. They ultimately rented it for $2,350/month to a local nurse who worked at the nearby hospital.
The Financial Impact
The monthly income now offsets over 60% of their primary mortgage. Their home value has increased, and they now have the option to use the ADU in the future for adult children, guests, or even a caregiver.
Lessons Learned
- Design for flexibility: ADA features helped not just Mom, but also boosted rental appeal.
- Think long-term: Life situations change. A flexible-use ADU gives you options.
- Build for quality: Because they didn’t cut corners, the unit easily met rental standards and commanded a premium rate.
It's therefore important to note that what began as a gesture of family care became a long-term financial asset. More and more families are finding that ADUs aren’t just about housing today — they’re about securing tomorrow.
