A Primer on Building In-Law Suites

Not sure if an in-law suite is worth the investment? Our interior remodeling contractors at DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of Madison compiled this quick primer on in-law suites to help you decide. Here are the things you need to know.

In-Law Suites Are a Popular Remodeling Trend

As a remodeling trend, in-law suites have been gaining traction since 2012. Normally, trends tend to fizzle out quickly but in-law suites are a notable exception. The topic of in-law living arrangements or assisted living is something most families will need to talk about sooner or later. For the foreseeable future, the market need will fuel demand for in-law suites.

In-Law Suites Can Raise Your Property’s Value

If return on investment is one of your primary concerns, you may want to consider adding an in-law suite. Most buyers are willing to pay a lot more for a home with this feature, according to a survey from the National Association of Realtors.

There’s also indications that the amount homebuyers are willing to pay for a home with an in-law suite will increase in coming years, given that more and more older Americans are living on the same property as their adult children. Back in 1980, only 12% of American households included two or more adult generations, but that figure has since increased to 20% (or 64 million people) in 2019. It doesn’t seem like this trend will be disappearing anytime soon.

Essential Features of an In-Law Suite

An in-law suite is essentially a secondary living space where your guests can live comfortably while maintaining a degree of independence. To help them do that, there are certain features and amenities every in-law suite should have. Aside from bathrooms and kitchenettes, here are some features worth considering:

A separate entrance. This will give your in-laws a sense of normalcy within the suite and control over their own living space.
Age-friendly features. Falls are the leading cause of injury among older Americans, which is why an in-law suite should be geared towards safety and mobility. Non-slip flooring, easy-to-open windows, lower cabinets, wide door openings and lever handles are just some of the features that can help your in-laws live comfortably and independently.

To learn more about essential age-friendly features, consult one of our interior home remodeling contractors. They can make recommendations on how to plan an in-law suite that’s truly Independent by Design™!

Let’s Start a Conversation!

DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of Madison offers a wide range of professional interior renovation services. To get started with a no-obligation consultation, call us at (608) 352-9944 or fill out this form. We serve homeowners in Madison, Cross Plains and Westport, as well as the surrounding communities.

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