Why Add Mother-In-Law Suite To Your Home?

build a home in New Jersey with a mother in law suite

house built to include a mother in law suite

Adding a mother-in-law suite to your home can provide many benefits for you and your family. A well-designed and well-executed mother-in-law suite can offer privacy, independence, and convenience for both you and your parents or in-laws. Here are three reasons why adding an extra living space to your home might be a good idea:

What Is A Mother In Law Suite

In basic terms, a mother in law suite (also called an in-law suite or granny flat) is a separate living space within a home that is designed to be used by one or more people. They’re also referred to as accessory dwelling units, or ADUs, which is their legal and regulatory name.  This can include a bedroom, bathroom, and small kitchen area. Mother-in-law suites are often located on the main floor of the house near the entrance or off to one side of the property. Some homeowners add mother-in-law suites to accommodate aging parents who need extra care and support as they get older. Other families use these spaces for short-term guest accommodations or family visits when it’s not feasible or convenient to stay hotels. Regardless of your reasons for adding this space to your home, there are numerous benefits associated with doing so. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most notable benefits.

1. Increased independence and privacy.

By adding a mother-in-law suite to your home, you are able to provide your aging parents or in-laws with a sense of privacy and independence. This can help them feel more comfortable staying in their own space, rather than in an unfamiliar hotel room or other temporary lodging situation.

2. Convenience for caregivers and family members.

If you often care for elderly relatives who live close by, having a dedicated living space within your own home can make life much easier for you as well as your loved ones. Whether it’s helping elderly parents with bathing and dressing needs or providing transportation to appointments and social activities, having an extra space on your property can make things a lot more convenient.

3. Increased convenience for family members and guests.

In addition to being convenient for caregivers and elderly loved ones, mother-in-law suites are also ideal for accommodating visiting family members or short-term visitors. Whether it’s younger relatives who are coming home to visit or out of town guests who need some extra space while they’re in town, having an additional bedroom and bathroom on your property is extremely helpful and practical.

an in-law suite creates expanded space with privacy that is separate but connected to the main house

an in-law suite creates expanded space with privacy that is separate but connected to the main house

How Big Are Mother In Law Suites?

The size of mother-in-law suites can vary depending on a number of factors. In general, these spaces are typically smaller than other rooms in the home and include just one or two bedrooms and a bathroom. However, there may also be more extensive living areas included in this space, such as a small kitchenette or dining area. Typically, the size and layout of your property will determine the optimal size for your mother-in-law suite. For example, if you live on a large urban lot with plenty of room to spare, you might want to opt for a larger space that allows for more comforts and conveniences. On the other hand, if you live in an older home or on a smaller property where space is limited, you might need to be more strategic about the size and layout of your mother-in-law suite.

Is A Mother In Law Suite A Good Idea?

Ultimately, adding a mother-in-law suite to your home is a personal decision that should be based on your specific family needs and goals. However, this type of space can be extremely beneficial for families with aging loved ones and caregivers who need extra help or support. It can also be used as a source of rental income if you decide to rent this space out to others. If you’re looking for more information about this process, it’s worth consulting with an architect or other home design professional who can help you create the perfect mother-in-law suite for your unique property.

Can A Mother In Law Suite Have A Stove?

It’s possible to add a stove to your mother-in-law suite, but it will depend on the layout and size of this space. For example, if you’re working with an existing room in your home that doesn’t have access to plumbing or electricity, then adding a stove may not be feasible. However, once you’ve incorporated these utilities into the space and accounted for ample venting space above the new cooking appliance, then it should be easy to install a stove. Whether you choose a basic model or something more intricate like an induction cooktop is up to personal preference. Just make sure that whichever stove you decide on is properly installed and meets any current safety codes in your area.

Also, check local regulations in your state about what amenities change the classification of the building from a single family home to a multi family home and may need different permits.

mother in law suite including a kitchenette

an in-law suite can include a kitchenette

Do Mother In Law Suites Add Value?

While there are many benefits associated with having a mother-in-law suite in your home, it’s important to note that this type of space doesn’t always add value. In fact, depending on the size and layout of your property, adding a mother-in-law suite may actually detract from your overall value if potential buyers don’t need or want this extra feature.

On the other hand, if you’re designing this space primarily for your own personal use and aren’t concerned about resale value, then adding a mother-in-law suite is likely worth considering. The appraised value of homes with mother-in-law suites that are legally able to be rented out can be 7.2%-9.8% higher than their most recent sales price.

Final Thoughts About Why Add Mother-In-Law Suite To Your Home?

Adding a mother-in-law suite to your home can be extremely beneficial for families with aging loved ones and caregivers who need extra help or support. It can also be used as a source of income if you decide to rent this space out to others. If you’re looking for more information about this process, it’s worth consulting with an architect or other home design professional who can help you create the perfect mother-in-law suite for your unique property.

Interested in Building a New Home in Ocean or Monmouth County That Includes A Mother In Law Suite? Call 732-905-0005 or Contact Us Now

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can an accessory dwelling unit be used as a detached mother in law suite?

A: Yes, an accessory dwelling unit can be used as a detached mother in law suite. Accessory dwelling units (ADUs) are also known as secondary units, in-law apartments, granny flats, or garage apartments. They are self-contained housing units located on a property that is separate from the primary residence. ADUs can be attached to the main house or detached from it.

Q: Can a mother in law apartment have a second entrance?

A: Yes, a mother in law apartment can have a separate entrance. It is typically advisable to have an exit door that leads out to the main property in case of an emergency. For safety reasons, it is also advised that this private entrance be kept unlocked from both the inside and outside.

Q: Can you keep long term tenants in a guest house?

A: You can keep long-term tenants in a guest house, but you must disclose to them that the property is not zoned for residential use and they are only allowed to stay there on a temporary basis. You should also make it clear to your tenants that they are not allowed to have any guests stay over for more than one night, and they must leave the property by 10pm each night. If your tenants violate these rules, you can evict them without having to go through the normal eviction process.

Q: How many people can live in a single family home?

A: There is no definitive answer to this question. It depends on the size and layout of the home, as well as the lifestyle of the occupants. Some families prefer more space and opt for a larger home, while others are content with a smaller living arrangement. In general, however, most experts agree that a single family home can comfortably accommodate anywhere from 2 to 6 people.

Author

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  • Michelle Garofalo

    Michelle Garofalo is the guiding force behind MSC Enterprises, LLC, a prominent custom home builder and real estate developer in Monmouth County and Ocean County, New Jersey. With over 25 years in real estate development, her expertise extends from a successful career in the solar industry, where she managed over 75MW of projects. Co-founding Infiniti Energy, Michelle now oversees day-to-day operations and leads business development, ensuring a seamless journey for clients. Her meticulous approach and commitment to excellence are reflected in MSC's residential and commercial properties, known for their quality, durability, and energy efficiency.