Worried about having to live with and share space with someone else other than your spouse and children? No need to stress, that’s where the mother-in-law suite comes in. It’s a concept in home construction that allows a homeowner to accommodate living situations for multiple people or any guests they may have. But what is it? Let’s define just exactly what a mother-in-law suite is.
What is a mother-in-law suite?
A mother-in-law suite is a private residence created within a home, built on as an addition to a home, or a separate unit entirely on the property. In other words, this living area can be either connected to or built on the same lot as the main house. Its original use was intended to house an in-law or relative.
These suites became popular in post-WWII America, and we are beginning to see a resurgence of them with homeowners today. Again, the traditional purpose of a mother-in-law suite was to accommodate elderly family members in order for them to live near their relatives yet still maintain a sense of privacy and independence. Today, however, they may be used for various purposes including guest rooms, older children’s living spaces, offices and more.
These suites typically include sleeping quarters, a living area, kitchen, and bathroom. Although they can be attached to the main house, the living area typically remains separate from the rest of the house. Mother-in-law suites can be a simple single room with a bed, couch, and a place to eat with bathroom access. But they can also be located in a separate portion, such as a basement with a separate door, a garage, or even a remodeled attic.
Types of mother-in-law suites
Let’s take a closer look at the different variations of a mother-in-law suite.
Interior mother-in-law suite
Located within the house where the family resides, this could be a basement that has been converted or a room such as a study or den in the main portion of the house. Some of these homes’ floor plans have bedrooms at opposite ends of the home, as well as separate bathrooms. Typically, though, they do still share a living room and kitchen space.
If it is a basement that has been converted, it will more often than not have its own bedroom, bathroom, living area, and kitchen space. Mother-in-law suites in basements tend to also have their own entrance to the home.
Attached mother-in-law suite
An attached suite includes a completely separate living space built onto the existing home. These are often attached to the side of a house or added to the back as an addition.
Detached mother-in-law suite
These are also known as accessory dwelling units or “granny flats.” Detached suites are typically smaller, separate homes that are constructed on the same lot as the main home. This second home can vary in size, style, and features, which can be suited directly to your wants and needs.
Attic or garage suite
A suite located in a converted garage or attic of a home is remodeled to accommodate the person occupying it. Remodels usually include the construction of a bedroom, bathroom, kitchen, and living area.
Other uses
Mother-in-law suites are a good addition to any home and do not always have to be used to house a relative. Whether attached to the main house or in a separate unit, there are many options for what you can do with a vacant suite.
Many vacant mother-in-law suites are used as rental properties. This includes long-term rentals or short-term rentals like Airbnbs, but make sure to check your local codes before converting your suite into a rental. You can also use the space for your own home office, gym, art studio, or even a business venture. An empty suite can also become your own personal man cave or she-shed. The opportunities are endless.
The mother-in-law suite and property value
Having a mother-in-law suite can add value to your property. But, due to the several different variations of suites combined with varying amenities and finishes, it is difficult to determine exactly how much.
Due to the lack of real estate comps, although mother-in-law suites have been around since the 1940s, they are difficult to track and difficult for real estate professionals and appraisers to place valuations on. Even though these suites are starting to gain popularity again, not every neighborhood has a house with a mother-in-law suite that can act as a comparable sale when determining the value of your home.
With that said, you can also look up national averages to find a ballpark figure. Nonetheless, the value your property gains from adding a mother-in-law suite will depend on your area and what type of addition it is.
Summary
Having defined exactly what a mother-in-law suite is, are you sold on the idea of having one? Luckily for you, Ryan Roberts is your local real estate expert and can help you find just what you’re looking for. Contact Ryan to get started today! To learn more and stay up to date on all things real estate, continue reading our blog.