Before moving forward with an ECHO senior housing unit, ask yourself these five questions:
1. Most important, are you willing and able to integrate your parent or other family members into your home life and provide the care needed?
2. If so, do your zoning laws restrict this type of structure? Check with your local zoning or planning board.
3. Is there adequate yard space for the ECHO?
4. Are utility hookups available?
5. Will the ECHO add to the value of your property? If not, would it be straightforward to remove?
If you and your parent (or other family member) decide that an ECHO housing unit makes sense for your family, it can be a wonderful way to help a loved one remain independent -- and strengthen your family ties.
To locate ECHO suppliers, search online using keywords elder cottage housing opportunity.
A few months ago three of us decided to start a business to help families with housing for aging family members. We named our company Sidekick Homes and we can be found at www.sidekickhomes.com. Unknowingly we were providing Echo Housing. Our services include literally everything from an expression of need by a family to welcoming the person into their new place of residence close to the family. Essentially we are a concierge service who will take care of all the details of design, construction and installation of the new home in the garden. Mike
This is a very intriguing idea. Years ago we tried to get my husband's parents to move to our city to be closer to us and our children. But we hadn't thought of building them a small house in our backyard. What a great way to provide for your parents but still be independent - for both sides