Downsizing to an ADU, Answered
What older New Jersey homeowners ask most when considering a smaller home near family.
Where can I downsize in New Jersey and still live close to my children?
Building a studio or one-bedroom ADU in your child's backyard lets you downsize into a smaller, easier-to-manage home while staying close to family — often a more connected option than a condo or 55-plus community farther away.
Could I sell my house and move into an ADU on my child's property?
Many New Jersey families use proceeds from selling a larger home to help fund a backyard ADU on a child's property. BLS can walk through the construction costs and process so your family can plan the finances together.
Is a backyard cottage a good downsizing option for a senior?
A backyard ADU offers a private, right-sized home with full living space, often with less upkeep than a larger house, while keeping you near family for everyday support — a combination that condos and apartments usually cannot match.
How much space does one older adult really need in an ADU?
Most downsizing seniors are comfortable in a well-designed studio or one-bedroom ADU with a full kitchen, bathroom and laundry. BLS can help you compare layouts to find the size that fits your lifestyle and belongings.
Can a downsized ADU still have a full kitchen and laundry?
Yes — even our smaller studio and one-bedroom ADU plans include a full kitchen, bathroom and in-unit laundry, so downsizing doesn't mean giving up everyday conveniences.
What are the advantages of an ADU compared with a 55-plus community?
An ADU keeps you on family property with daily access to children and grandchildren, rather than in a separate community. You also get a home designed specifically around your needs, rather than a standard community unit.
Is living in an ADU cheaper than assisted living or renting an apartment?
Costs vary by situation, but many families find a one-time ADU construction cost compares favorably over time to ongoing assisted-living or rental payments — while also keeping the senior closer to family. BLS can provide property-specific pricing to help you compare.
Can an ADU be designed for a wheelchair or walker?
Yes — BLS can design any ADU with a step-free entrance, wider doorways, a roll-in shower and other accessibility features, so your home continues to work for you even if your mobility needs change over time.
How long does it take before I can move into a modular ADU?
Timelines depend on your town's permitting process and site conditions, but modular construction is generally faster than a fully site-built home since the unit is built off-site while your foundation and utility work are prepared in parallel.
Who can guide our family through design, permits and installation in New Jersey?
BLS manages the entire process for your family — from the initial property evaluation through design, permits, delivery and final installation — so you have one point of contact for the whole downsizing move.