Multi-generation living arrangements are common in other parts of the world, but this arrangement has not been a trend in the US until fairly recently. Apparently, realtors in various parts of the country are reporting a growing demand for guest suites (also known as mother in-law suites). Why is this a trend, and is it smart for your family? 

Why Are Guest Suites Becoming Popular?

In-law suites (and sharing your home with your parents) would not really have been an option fifteen or twenty years ago, but as baby boomers are aging, and their children are raising families, there are several reasons why US families are considering this trend. 

On the one hand, parents and in-laws are often looking to downsize, and perhaps contribute a percentage to the cost of a mortgage with their children. On the other, children are realizing that the costs of nursing homes can be prohibitive, and that it makes sense to share their space with their parents for as long as it’s possible. 

Of course, many baby boomers are far from requiring assisted living, and the attraction of the lock up and go, limited responsibility (but still family oriented) lifestyle that a guest suite can afford is an attractive one. Basically, this is an arrangement that can be win-win for both families and parents. 

Other Benefits of In-law Suites

Aside from the benefits to individuals and families, there are a number of other, more practical reasons why so many more families are opting to build additional living units in their new homes (or add them onto existing homes.) These include:

• An increase in home value. Because of the demand for in-law suites, homes that already have them tend to fetch higher prices at resale.
• Even if your parents or in-laws won’t be moving in for a while, an guest suite can be a great place for out of town family and friends to stay when visiting.
• If your in-laws or parents do move into your home, there are practical benefits. Built in baby sitting and mom’s apple pie being just two of many.

Several of our new home designs have the option to add these sorts of compliant in-law suites, including the Brentwood, the Fairfax and the Classic Carney. All of these suites are optional on the first floor level, which means that they’re accessible eve to parents or in-laws whose mobility is not what it once was. That is another key consideration in constructing guest suites.