We have been highlighting on these pages since shortly after the onset of the Covid epidemic that the housing supply in the U.S. and, in particular, our area of Bergen County, was becoming smaller and smaller. We have theorized, pontificated, complained and even begged for there to be some glimmer of a solution to the challenges this brings to a community like ours that thrives on multi-generational living. To state it one more time: If the seniors are not selling their homes, then the new generation will have to find somewhere else to live. What seems like the utopian vision of grandparents living next to children and grandchildren becomes harder and harder to achieve.
In comes Teaneck’s new ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) law which finally has the potential to make changes on this front. Let’s dive straight into it. In many of Teaneck’s single family zones, for the first time, an owner-occupied house will be allowed to rent up to 800 square feet of space to a tenant that is not a family member. The exact size will depend on certain zoning requirements, such as the total amount of square footage in the existing home. In addition, a separate structure on the property, i.e. an attached or detached garage, can also transition to an ADU. All zoning laws and building codes will need to be adhered to, but it will now be legal to put a tenant in your home and charge them rent.
This law is so new that there are still questions which we are not sure how to answer. However, we look forward to future discussions with our Teaneck Mayor Mendy Schwartz and Deputy Mayor Denise Belcher to help us navigate the exact requirements.
I cannot help but emphasize the potential impact this may have on our neighborhood. For people of my generation, the call to our next stage in life rings constantly in our ears. Do we stay in our homes that are often too large for us, or do we sell and leave the community we love so much for the next chapter? Now, if a portion of our “too large a house for just me and dad” home can be rented out, then our problem can be solved (while generating additional income in the process). Maybe, just maybe, we can all have our cake and eat it too!
The impact on the younger generation will be no less beneficial. Many of our youngest families would prefer to be within walking distance of parents, friends and the communal infrastructure they grew up with, which has often been unattainable due to today’s incredibly high purchase prices. It’s too soon to know how many of Teaneck’s homeowners will avail themselves of this opportunity, but it certainly has the ability to change the dynamic of a long held status quo.
After more guidance from Teaneck’s governance we will be sure to report back and share more details on this exciting possibility.
Nechama Polak is the broker of record and owner of V&N Group LLC,located at 1401 Palisade Avenue in Teaneck. Send your thoughts and comments to
[email protected] or call 201 826 8809.
