In-Home Mother-in-Law Suite VS Detached Mother-in-Law Suite: Which Is Right For You?
As families grow and change, many homeowners find themselves considering adding a mother-in-law suite to their property. Whether it’s to care for an aging parent, host extended family members, or simply provide extra space for guests, an in-law suite is a valuable addition to any home. However, when it comes to creating this additional living space, you’re faced with a key decision: Should you build an in-home suite or opt for a detached unit?
At Glickman Design Build, we’ve worked with numerous families to create both in-home and detached mother-in-law suites, each offering unique advantages. Let’s break down the pros and cons of each option to help you determine which setup best fits your lifestyle, property, and family’s needs.
In-Home Mother-in-Law Suite: The Integrated Approach
An in-home mother-in-law suite typically involves converting part of your existing home into a self-contained living area or adding on to your home’s footprint to create the space. This setup keeps everything under one roof, making it an ideal option for those who want proximity and easy access to loved ones. Here are some key considerations:
Pros of an In-Home Mother-in-Law Suite
Close Proximity: If you want to keep family members close, an in-home suite allows you to maintain that sense of closeness without sacrificing privacy. It’s perfect for those who want to provide daily care for aging parents or have the option to check in on them easily.
Cost-Effective: Building an in-home suite can be more cost-effective than constructing a detached unit because it often requires less land development and fewer utility hookups. Additionally, it can utilize the existing structure of your home to save on construction costs.
Accessibility: For seniors or those with limited mobility, being in the same building can make moving between spaces easier, especially if the home is designed with universal accessibility in mind. Glickman specializes in creating accessible homes that make life simpler and more comfortable for all family members.
Higher Home Value: In-home suites are a desirable feature in today’s real estate market. They add extra square footage and functional living space to your home, which can increase its overall value when it comes time to sell.
Cons of an In-Home Mother-in-Law Suite
Potential for Reduced Privacy: While the suite will be a separate living area, some families may find that sharing a roof with in-laws or other family members reduces their sense of privacy. If maintaining complete separation is important, this setup may not be ideal.
Space Limitations: Depending on the layout of your home and available property space, adding an in-home suite may come with design constraints. You may need to compromise on the size or layout of the suite to fit within the home’s structure.
Detached Mother-in-Law Suite: A Stand-Alone Option
A detached mother-in-law suite, also known as an accessory dwelling unit (ADU), is a completely separate structure located on your property. This option offers more autonomy and separation for your family members or guests while providing all the benefits of an in-law suite.
Pros of a Detached Mother-in-Law Suite
Increased Privacy: A detached suite provides ultimate privacy for both the main household and the family member or guest living in the suite. It gives each household their own space to relax, unwind, and maintain their own daily routines without constant interaction.
Flexible Usage: A detached in-law suite offers great versatility. It can easily be repurposed as a guest house, a rental unit, or a home office. This makes it an attractive option for those who want flexibility in how they use the space in the future.
Resale Value: Much like an in-home suite, a detached unit can significantly increase the value of your property. With the rise of ADUs being seen as a way to offer rental income potential or even multi-generational housing, many homebuyers view this as a great investment.
Design Freedom: Detached units allow for more creative freedom in design since you’re not limited by the structure of your main home. You can customize the exterior and interior to meet your needs or create a beautiful space that blends with the overall aesthetic of your property.
Cons of a Detached Mother-in-Law Suite
Higher Cost: A detached unit will likely come with higher upfront costs. You’ll need to factor in the cost of utilities, such as electrical, plumbing, and water hookups, as well as the need for a foundation and potentially additional permits.
Requires More Property Space: If your lot is small or irregularly shaped, building a detached suite may be difficult or even impossible. Make sure to evaluate the space you have available before deciding on this option.
Distance Concerns: While privacy is a key benefit, having a separate building may present challenges for family members who need assistance or closer monitoring, especially seniors with mobility or health issues. It may be less convenient to provide immediate care when needed.
Which Is Right for You?
Choosing between an in-home mother-in-law suite and a detached unit largely depends on your family’s specific needs, your property size, and your budget. If you want to keep family members close and maximize cost-effectiveness, an in-home suite might be the best option. On the other hand, if privacy, flexibility, and potential rental income are priorities, a detached suite could be the perfect fit.
At Glickman Design Build, we specialize in helping families make these important decisions with confidence. Whether you’re considering an in-home or detached in-law suite, we can walk you through the design, planning, and construction process to ensure that your new space meets all your needs. Our team is highly experienced in both options, and we’ll work with you to create a beautiful, functional living space that works for everyone.
Whether you’re leaning toward an in-home suite or a detached ADU, Glickman Design Build is here to help. Our award-winning team has decades of experience creating custom spaces for multi-generational families. Contact us today to start planning your dream in-law suite and ensure your family’s comfort for years to come!