What The Heck Is a Granny Pod?

First came the office sheds, then the garden rooms, and now we have Granny Pods.  If this is the first time you’re hearing this term, brace yourself.  This controversial concept has been gaining momentum for years.

They’re the newest iteration of an accessory dwelling unit.  And, a possible nursing home alternative for aging family members.  Here’s what you need to know about granny pods.

What Is a Granny Pod?

Granny pods are also referred to as granny flats or MEDcottages.  The technical term for them is an accessory dwelling unit.

What’s that?  It’s a small stand-alone residential structure placed on a property with a traditional detached single-family home.

Accessory dwelling units have been around for a long time.  They’ve been used as garage apartments, cabana houses, guest houses, casitas, and in-law suites for decades.

Is This a Good Idea?

When I asked my developer friend if he’d heard of a Granny Pod his immediate reaction was “No, that sounds degrading”.  And he’s not alone in having an adverse reaction to the concept.

Hands down, the funniest article title I’ve read all year is about the MEDcottage from 2012 called “Throw Momma In A Shed: Is the MedCottage a Solution for Millions of Older Americans?“.  Hahahahaha!

In this satirical review, the criticism lands firmly on the space needed to build this structure, accessibility, the cost, the aesthetic impact it has on the neighborhood, and other safety concerns.

I can assure you, Granny Pods aren’t cheap metal sheds and your grandmother or mother is not sharing space with the rakes and shovels.

It’s also important to note that any issues regarding space and safety will be sorted out via the local zoning and occupancy ordinances.

Any structure that taps into sewage lines will require zoning permits.  Spacing, accessibility, obstruction of views, and the like are a non-issue if the structure is built lawfully.

Here’s why I think this is a good idea.  Nursing care facilities are expensive.  They are also extremely isolating for our family.

The emotional impact of uprooting a relative who has lived independently for the past 50 or 60 years can be devastating.  They’ll be placed in an unfamiliar, restricted environment with no one they know around them.

The mental toll of this abrupt change is far worse than any physical ailment.  Any option that keeps them safe, close to family and friends they know, and helps them retain independence is worth exploring, in my opinion.

Why Build a Granny Pod?

A home for older family members that is all their own but close to caretakers, is a great idea.  Yes, there will be upfront costs associated with this.  At the high end, you’re looking at maybe $100,000.

But let’s do the math on that real quick.  Compare the cost of building the granny pod vs paying a nursing care facility $5000/mo (and that’s cheap).  The accessory dwelling unit will have paid for itself in 2 – 3 years.  You could be paying for nursing care for 10 or 15 yrs.

It’s clear that the benefits long term far outweigh the initial cost.  Not only will you have a place long term for your family, but you’ve added value to your property simultaneously.

Granny Pod Alternatives

While house hunting two years ago my husband and we toured one of Lennar Home’s Next-Gen model homes.  They are so cool.  It’s essentially a home with a Granny Pod extension built-in, except bigger and better.

These homes have their own single car garage, their own exterior entry, sitting room, kitchen, and bedroom.

That said, this isn’t an option for someone who has already invested in a home unless you’re looking to move.  This is for those who are already house hunting and know that they will be broaching the subject of elder care in the near future.

Conclusion

What do you think of the Granny Pod trend?  Is it something you are considering or would do if you had the yard space?  Let me know in the comments below.

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