Lakewood, a well-established city in Los Angeles County, is renowned for its suburban charm, family-friendly atmosphere, and well-maintained neighborhoods. With California’s increasing demand for housing, the addition of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) has become a strategic move for homeowners looking to expand their property’s functionality and value. An ADU can serve various purposes, from providing extra living space for family members to generating rental income.
In this blog post, we will explore the top five neighborhoods in Lakewood where adding an ADU can be particularly advantageous. Each neighborhood offers unique benefits, including favorable zoning regulations, desirable lot sizes, and community appeal. This guide will help you make an informed decision on where to invest in your ADU project in Lakewood.
1. Cypress Gardens
Why Cypress Gardens is Ideal for ADUs
Cypress Gardens is a well-regarded neighborhood in Lakewood known for its spacious homes and family-oriented environment. This area is particularly appealing for homeowners considering an ADU due to its generous lot sizes and supportive zoning regulations.
- Zoning and Lot Size: Homes in Cypress Gardens are typically situated on larger lots, often exceeding 7,000 square feet. This ample space provides a perfect canvas for adding a detached ADU or converting an existing structure into additional living space. The neighborhood’s zoning regulations are conducive to ADU development, allowing for various design options that fit seamlessly with the area’s character.
- Community Appeal: Cypress Gardens boasts a strong sense of community, with well-maintained parks, excellent schools, and a welcoming atmosphere. The neighborhood is known for its quiet streets and family-friendly amenities, making it an ideal location for adding an ADU. Whether you’re looking to accommodate extended family members or create a rental unit, Cypress Gardens offers a supportive environment for your ADU project.
Potential Return on Investment
Investing in an ADU in Cypress Gardens can yield significant financial returns. The neighborhood’s large lots and strong demand for housing make it an attractive area for high-quality rentals. Additionally, the presence of an ADU can enhance your property’s value, offering a lucrative investment opportunity. Cypress Gardens’ combination of spacious properties, community appeal, and demand for housing makes it a prime choice for ADU development.
2. South Lakewood
Why South Lakewood is a Top Choice for ADUs
South Lakewood is a vibrant neighborhood known for its diverse housing options, strong sense of community, and proximity to local amenities. This area is particularly suitable for adding an ADU due to its supportive zoning regulations and central location.
- Zoning Flexibility: South Lakewood features a mix of single-family homes on medium to large-sized lots, providing ample space for ADU construction. The local zoning regulations are favorable towards ADUs, allowing homeowners to explore various design options, from detached units to garage conversions. This flexibility makes South Lakewood an attractive option for expanding your property.
- Community and Amenities: South Lakewood is known for its accessibility and convenience, with easy access to schools, shopping centers, and public transportation. The neighborhood’s strong community spirit and diverse demographic make it a popular choice for families and young professionals alike. Adding an ADU in South Lakewood can provide additional living space for family members, tenants, or even as a home office.
Potential Return on Investment
The appeal of South Lakewood, with its central location and diverse housing options, makes it a strong contender for ADU investment. The neighborhood’s stable real estate market and high demand for rental properties ensure that an ADU can generate consistent rental income. Furthermore, the addition of an ADU can significantly increase the overall value of your property. South Lakewood offers a perfect blend of convenience, community appeal, and financial potential for homeowners considering an ADU.
3. Mayfair
Why Mayfair is Perfect for ADU Development
Mayfair is a well-established neighborhood in Lakewood known for its charming homes, family-friendly atmosphere, and proximity to excellent schools. This area is particularly appealing for homeowners looking to add an ADU due to its supportive zoning regulations and desirable lot sizes.
- Zoning and Lot Sizes: The properties in Mayfair are typically zoned for residential use, with many homes sitting on medium to large-sized lots. This provides ample space for ADU construction while maintaining the neighborhood’s suburban charm. The local zoning regulations are conducive to ADU development, allowing for various design options that fit well with the area’s character.
- Community Appeal: Mayfair is highly regarded for its strong sense of community, safety, and access to local amenities. The neighborhood’s proximity to parks, schools, and shopping centers further enhances its appeal. An ADU in Mayfair can serve as additional living space for family members or tenants, providing a versatile solution in a highly desirable area.
Potential Return on Investment
Investing in an ADU in Mayfair offers significant financial benefits. The neighborhood’s strong demand for housing, combined with its family-oriented appeal, ensures that an ADU can generate steady rental income. Additionally, the presence of an ADU can enhance the overall value of your property, making it a smart investment for the future. Mayfair’s combination of community amenities, safety, and demand for housing makes it an excellent location for ADU development.
4. Palo Verde
Why Palo Verde is Ideal for ADUs
Palo Verde is a picturesque neighborhood in Lakewood, known for its well-maintained homes and close-knit community. This area is particularly suitable for adding an ADU due to its favorable zoning regulations and the availability of larger lots.
- Zoning and Lot Sizes: The homes in Palo Verde are typically situated on larger lots, providing ample space for ADU construction. The local zoning regulations are supportive of ADUs, allowing homeowners to explore various design options, from detached units to garage conversions. This flexibility makes Palo Verde an attractive choice for expanding your property.
- Community and Amenities: Palo Verde is known for its tranquil environment, with tree-lined streets, parks, and a strong sense of community. The neighborhood’s proximity to schools, recreational facilities, and shopping centers further enhances its appeal. Adding an ADU in Palo Verde can provide additional living space for family members or tenants, making it a practical solution for growing families.
Potential Return on Investment
Investing in an ADU in Palo Verde can yield substantial financial returns. The neighborhood’s larger lot sizes and strong community appeal make it an attractive area for high-quality rentals. Additionally, the presence of an ADU can significantly increase the overall value of your property, offering a lucrative investment opportunity. Palo Verde’s combination of spacious properties, community charm, and strong demand for housing makes it a prime choice for ADU development.
5. Woodruff
Why Woodruff is a Top Neighborhood for ADUs
Woodruff is a diverse and vibrant neighborhood in Lakewood, known for its accessibility, strong community spirit, and proximity to local amenities. This area offers an excellent setting for adding an ADU, especially for those looking to invest in a well-connected and convenient location.
- Zoning Flexibility: The properties in Woodruff are typically zoned for residential use, with many homes situated on medium-sized lots. The neighborhood’s zoning regulations are favorable towards ADUs, allowing homeowners to add additional living space without extensive red tape. This flexibility makes Woodruff an attractive option for expanding your property.
- Community and Accessibility: Woodruff is known for its convenience, with easy access to public transportation, shopping centers, and local schools. The neighborhood’s diverse community and vibrant atmosphere make it a popular choice for families and young professionals alike. An ADU in Woodruff can serve as a comfortable residence for family members, tenants, or even as a home office.
Potential Return on Investment
Investing in an ADU in Woodruff offers a unique opportunity to capitalize on the area’s strong demand for housing. The neighborhood’s central location and stable real estate market ensure that an ADU can generate consistent rental income. Additionally, the addition of an ADU can increase the value of your property, particularly in a market where additional living space is highly sought after. Woodruff’s combination of convenience, community appeal, and financial potential makes it an excellent location for ADU development.
Conclusion
Lakewood is a city with a diverse range of neighborhoods, each offering unique benefits for ADU development. Whether you’re looking for a spacious and tranquil environment like Cypress Gardens, a central and convenient location like South Lakewood, or a family-friendly community like Mayfair, there’s a neighborhood in Lakewood that’s perfect for your ADU project.
Adding an ADU can provide significant financial benefits, from generating rental income to increasing your property’s resale value. However, it’s essential to navigate the city’s zoning regulations and community guidelines carefully to ensure a successful project. Working with experienced professionals who are familiar with Lakewood’s regulations can help you design and build an ADU that meets your needs and maximizes your return on investment.
By choosing the right neighborhood and partnering with the right professionals, you can make a smart investment in Lakewood’s thriving real estate market. Whether you’re looking to accommodate family members, generate rental income, or simply enhance your property, adding an ADU is a strategic move that can offer substantial rewards.