Granny Pods Hit the Mainstream for Seniors

If you have older relatives that want to be closer to you, but not necessarily under the same roof, you may be interested in looking into “granny pods.” A housing alternative for aging adults, these micro-houses are designed with accessibility in mind, but they’re small enough to fit in a backyard.

A growing number of companies are beginning to specially design these living spaces for older folks, such as Jamaica Cottage Shop in Vermont and MED Cottage based in Virginia. Depending on the size and the features included, granny pods can range in price from less than $50,000 to nearly $250,000. So depending on your loved one’s specific needs and your family budget, you can make it as frills-free or fancy as your hearts desire.

We know what you’re thinking: How can I get past the name of this housing option? Well, we did some research, and despite the name “granny pods,” some of these dwellings actually look incredibly chic.

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Did you know "granny pods" are allowed in the residential areas of Dunedin? I've just finished a small group session with city commissioners, city planners, consultants, and various stakeholders, and that's one of the many things we discussed. Though much of Pinellas allows the same up to 400 sf, Dunedin allows up to 800 sf. And of course, they aren't restricted to granny. #DunedinFL #Dunedinrocks #grannypods #realestate #DelightfulDunedin #Dunedinrealestate #realtorlife #RealtorCrisinTampa

A post shared by Cristina Vanthul (@realtorcris_in_tampa) on Aug 31, 2017 at 9:07am PDT

Searching for a place to age, retirees look to the backyard and build 'granny pods'https://t.co/8AVpbLVLWv pic.twitter.com/EMPHiuZa8m
— PharmacyWeek (Kevin) (@PharmacyWeek) August 22, 2017

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Our cabin shells are perfect for your own private get away, your dream hunting cabin, a space to entertain your friends, a granny pod, or the perfect choice for your tiny house adventure. The options are endless and prices start at just $3,695.00. Turn this space into what you’ve always dreamed of! Click the link in our profile. #texasmade #customcabin #cabinshell #texascabin #tinyhousemovement #tinyhouse #grannypod #adu #motherinlaw #weekendgetaway #cottagestyle #texas #dallashomes #texashomes

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We don’t know about you, but we wouldn’t mind living in some of these homes!

It’s worth noting that this option is definitely not for everyone. Not every family would benefit from being in close proximity. On top of that, some elderly people have specific needs that simply couldn’t be filled by a house of that nature.

But if you are considering a granny pod as an option for a loved one in your life, experts recommend that you look for one with basic necessities like a bedroom on the main floor, full bath with a raised toilet, a walk-in shower, grab bars, and slip-resistant flooring. Another great addition might be storage areas that are easily accessible without the use of a ladder.

Happy (tiny?) home-hunting!

h/t AARP