Extended family moving in? We are seeing a growing trend in multi-generational living, whether it’s aging parents moving in with their children or young adults moving back to the family homestead. Creating an in-law suite or additional living space is a wonderful way to accommodate family members while maintaining privacy and comfort for everyone.
While some homeowners are building homes with additional in-law space already in the blueprint, a new build isn’t an option for everyone. We’ve outlined some creative ideas on how to find space in your existing home to provide multi-generational living under one roof. Read on!
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Uncover Hidden Living Space in Your Home
New living space could be right under your nose. Your existing home may have hidden potential you haven’t yet considered.
Fourteen percent of all home buyers over the past year were motivated to purchase a home to accommodate multiple generations in their family, according to the National Association of REALTORS®’ 2023 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers. That percentage has held steady since the COVID-19 pandemic began. The most cited reasons for embracing multigenerational living include taking care of aging parents, saving on living expenses and accommodating relatives over the age of 18 who are moving back home, according to the survey.”1
- Converting the Basement: Transform your basement into a separate living space. This can include a bedroom, bathroom, kitchen, and living area. Proper insulation, lighting, and ventilation are key to making it a comfortable living space. If there is not a separate entrance to the basement from the outside, an egress window would be installed, adding safety and value to your home. A basement can be a new home-sweet-home for your parents.
- Garage Transformation: Convert your garage into a living area. This can involve adding insulation, heating, plumbing, and electrical systems. You can create a cozy and functional space with a bedroom, bathroom, and kitchenette. Turning your garage into living space is a great solution for mom, dad, or your recent college graduate.
- Utilizing a Rarely-Used Living Room: If you have a living room that is seldom used, consider converting it into a separate in-law suite. You might need to add a bathroom and kitchenette, and possibly a partition or door for privacy.
- Converting an Oversized Closet: An oversized closet can be transformed into a small living area. This option works best for a single occupant. You can add a small bed, storage, and perhaps a compact bathroom if space allows.
- Adding a “Bump Out”: Build a small addition to your home, often called a “bump out.” This can create in-law quarters that blend seamlessly with your existing structure. It can be designed to include a bedroom, bathroom, and kitchenette.
- Converting a Patio or Porch: Enclose your patio or porch to create a living area. This can be a cost-effective way to add an in-law suite, especially if the space already has a roof and flooring.
- Building a Separate Structure: Provided you have adequate land, construct a separate space on your property. This option provides the most privacy and independence for your in-laws or adult children. A cottage or tiny house can include all necessary amenities like a kitchen, bathroom, living area, and bedroom.
Each of these options offers flexibility in accommodating additional living space for in-laws or other family members, ensuring comfort and convenience for everyone involved.
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Discover Your Home’s Potential With Heck Residential
We would love to help you uncover additional living space in your home. There could be possibilities you haven’t realized. Or there could be limitations that might require shifting your vision. Either way, Heck Residential can help you!
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