When searching for homes to buy, coming across houses with mother-in-law suites in Utah is fairly common. While these types of home situations can offer many benefits, it’s important to understand the ins and outs of owning a mother-in-law suite before purchasing.
What Is a Mother-In-Law Suite?
Mother-in-law suites are also known as in-law apartments, granny flats, or accessory dwelling units (ADUs). Although the name implies housing for an aging parent, mother-in-law suites have many different purposes that can work with your unique situation. Not only can mother-in-law suites provide a safe and easy place for your in-laws or parents to live, but they can also house an adult child or serve as a guest unit, rental property, or home office.
An ADU can be a basement apartment, an apartment constructed over a garage, or even a detached dwelling in the yard for a more private living situation. The size and specifics of a suite can be up to you (and city ordinances), but suites usually have a full bathroom, bedroom, small kitchen or kitchenette, and separate entrance. Most also include basic comforts such as a small living room and dining room.
History of the Mother-In-Law Suite
Mother-in-law suites became highly popular in the early 1900s when caring for aging parents was the societal expectation after a couple married. At the time, multigenerational housing was more common than it is now.
After WWII and America’s exodus to the suburbs, many cities created zoning laws that banned in-law apartments. However, with housing prices rising, a large population of aging Americans to care for, and a high demand for passive income, ADUs are becoming quite popular again.
Advantages of the Mother-In-Law Suite
There are so many advantages to owning a mother-in-law suite that it’s difficult to make a comprehensive list. Here are some of the biggest advantages these in-law suites provide:
#1: Mother-In-Law Suites Offer a Place for Family
Having a separate space for parents or adult children allows for supportive multigenerational living, even if you don’t have plans to care for family members in the future.
#2: Mother-In-Law Suites Offer Additional Private Space
You can use your mother-in-law suite for personal uses like a gym space, a studio for a hobby, or an at-home office!
#3: Mother-In-Law Suites Increase Your Home’s Value
Because the demand for ADUs is rising, your home value increases immediately with the addition of an in-law suite. Your 5-bedroom house with a mother-in-law suite will easily sell for more than the 5-bedroom home down the street.
#4: Mother-In-Law Suites Provide Additional Income
If you don’t have in-laws living with you, you can easily rent out your ADU short or long-term to create a passive income.
Disadvantages of the Mother-In-Law Suite
Although there are great benefits to owning a new home with a mother-in-law suite, you should also be aware of some disadvantages.
#1: Mother-In-Law Suites Are Dependent on Local Ordinances
Your ADU will be subject to any city ordinances and zoning laws. Those could include the size of the in-law suite, how far away the detached suite can be from the primary residence, and how many people can live in the space.
#2: Mother-In-Law Suites Are Expensive to Build
If you didn’t buy a new home with a mother-in-law suite already built, it can be a pricey investment upfront. It’s best to get a good quote from multiple contractors before diving into the building.
#3: Mother-In-Law Suites Are Expensive to Upkeep
If you decide to rent out your mother-in-law suite, you will need to regularly maintain the apartment, just like any other home. With renting, this would include deep cleaning between renters and possibly fixing some damage.
Contact Harvest Park Group
Mother-in-law suites come with both pros and cons, but they can be a great addition if they work for your family! When searching for houses with mother-in-law suites in Utah, make sure to work with a professional at Harvest Park Group to find the perfect fit.
