In today’s time, it is clear there is no such thing as an average household. Multi-generational living has become increasingly popular within the last few years spurring new needs to keep the family closer. A mother-in-law suite offers support and convenience for many families taking in aging parents over the option of assisted living. But what should you be thinking about if you are considering adding one to your home? Below are the top questions you should be asking yourself.
How Much Privacy Would You Like to Have?
One of the most important questions to determine when considering an in-law suite is what kind of unit would give you the level of privacy for your family to live peacefully in. Chances are, you’ve grown accustomed to having your own privacy and your family has too, which is why it is important to think about separate entrances, soundproofing, and the like to ensure comfort for everyone. See which type of mother in-law suite below would fit your family best:
Types of In-Law Suites
1. Detached In-Law Suite
As freestanding units, detached in-law suites are the most independent and private. They will have their own utility & plumbing lines as well as their own entrance. Another person could completely live their own life there, as if they were in a completely separate house.
2. Attached In-Law Suite
The attached unit is closer to the family with the unit sharing one wall with the primary residence. While it will still have its own foundation and utility hookups, there is no internal entrance from the main house to the suite.
3. Interior In-Law Suite
Interior units are the most common and the most integrated with the original home. Interior in-law suites are often basement or attic apartments that are complete with more than just a guest bedroom. Like attached and detached suites, they often include a kitchen, sitting area, bathroom and bedroom. While this is a fully functional living space, it is hidden from sight from passersby on the street.
Will your City Regulations Allow it?
If you’re considering building an addition to your home for your in-laws, then you must check city/neighborhood regulations to make sure this is within building codes. You may or may not be able to extend your home enough to accommodate your plans. Even something as simple as a garage renovation may not be allowed.
This is where an experienced contractor like Tilghman Builders comes in handy. They will know exactly what needs to be done in regards to zoning restrictions and permits and take care of it all for you! Our planning process includes taking what you want and need, and figuring out all the small details to bring it to life.
How Much Will a Mother-In-Law Suite Cost?
An average home addition can run between $100,000-$300,000 depending on what is needed and what kind of finishes you desire. This may seem like a large cost but when compared to the cost of assisted living, you can easily see how much more valuable and cost effective this would be over time. For instance, the cost of utilizing assisted living would exceed the cost of a smaller budget addition in just over 2 years. Similarly, the cost would exceed a high-end addition in just under 7 years. This along with the other benefits of in-law suites, including better quality of life for your loved ones and planning for any future needs, make the upfront costs worth it for many families.
How Will an In-Law Suite Benefit You Long-Term?
In-law suites make excellent options for long-term care of family. But if you are not expecting the living situation to last long, then it is also important to consider other uses your family could have for the space in the future. You may have grown kids that could come back home to live in the future, or you may want a separate recreational space to work out or do hobbies in. Whatever the case, be sure to plan your in-law suite addition for the long run. Below are a few ideas for alternative uses.
Other Uses for an In-Law Suite
Family Room
Many families who no longer have a need for an in-law suite choose to convert it to a family room so the family can have extra space to congregate. This is especially beneficial to larger families and at the holidays when there are visitors. Children can also use a family space to store toys and play in separately from the adults.
Guest Suite for Adult Children
Your children may have gone off to college but that doesn’t mean they won’t ever have a need to move back in. Living on your own after graduating is quite an adjustment, prompting many grown children to live at home for a while and save money as they get settled into adult life. There are also times when unfortunate situations arise such as a job layoff that will send adult children back home.
Additional Source of Income
Unused in-law suites can make excellent sources of income by renting out the extra space. Additions that are separate from the home are especially beneficial as you have a completely separate space for better privacy. If having permanent renters on your property is not desired then you can always utilize apps such Airbnb for income as you need it.
Recreational Space
In-law suites can make a great recreational space as well, especially if your hobbies require extra room. Those who like to draw, or paint can turn the space into an art gallery to house their works. Those who like to work out and be active can make their own home gym or yoga studio. Music lovers can play their instruments and even teach lessons in the space.
Work Space
Small business owners and those with side businesses can benefit greatly from having a separate space nearby to conduct work in. Aside from an office space, you can make a home addition into just about anything including an art studio, classroom, or even a salon! If the suite is big enough, you could even have your own waiting room giving you a better ability to book clients back to back.
Building an in-Law Suite with Tilghman Builders
Now that you’ve considered every angle of adding an in-law suite to your home, it’s time to build! Tilghman Builders is an expert general and home contractor in Bucks County PA that is equipped with the expertise to make a beautiful and functional space for your family’s changing needs. If you are interested in a consultation, please give us a call!
