If you know for sure that your in-laws are moving in with you in the near future, you may want to look for a home to buy that has an in-law suite. If you do not expect your in-laws to move in with you, buying a house that has an in-law suite may still be a good option, though. Here are a few things you should know about in-law suites.
What is an in-law suite?
An in-law suite is extra space either attached to the home or on the property but separated from the home. The purpose of an in-law suite is to allow your in-laws to move in with you while allowing them to still have their own space. This option is ideal for in-laws or other live-in relatives, as it offers a way to be close to each other yet far enough apart.
What else could you use an in-law suite for?
Having this extra space in or near your home is ideal for live-in relatives or friends, but it is not just for that purpose. If you buy a house that has an in-law suite, you could use this area for a lot of different things. One option is to rent it out as a way to generate a monthly income. An in-law suite would also be ideal if you have a home business and need an office to use for it. You could also use an in-law suite to house overnight guests whenever you have them. Additionally, if you have a child in college, he or she could live in this space when returning home for the summer or weekends.
What features should you look for if you definitely want an in-law suite?
In-law suites are typically small in size, but this varies. Before you decide what features you want in an in-law suite, you will have to know exactly what you will use it for. If it will be for your in-laws, you may want the area to have a bedroom, bathroom, kitchen, and living room. If it will just be for overnight guests periodically, you may need only a bedroom and bathroom in the area.
There are not a lot of homes that offer in-law suites, but there are some. If this is something you really want in a home, contact a residential real estate agent for help finding homes that offer in-law suites.