Monday, March 25, 2024
HomeBackyardMother In Law Backyard House

Mother In Law Backyard House

Ways Of Creating A Mother

Mother In Law Overtakes The House, Watch What Happens

Looking for a safe place for mom or dad? Want to keep them close while giving you both your own space?

Look no further! The mother-in-law suite tiny home allows your loved one to live independently from the comfort of your backyard.

Tiny home life is gaining popularity as many seek to turn away from the keeping up with the Jones lifestyle. Tiny home lovers attracted to this minimalist lifestyle enjoy the low cost, maintenance, and freedom that tiny homes provide. Some tiny home enthusiasts even opt for mobile houses which allow them to travel the country with ease.

When our loved ones grow older, we are faced with many housing options. From retirement homes to assisted living, the costs can add up. We might also consider adding a mother-in-law suite on to our homes, but the costs can quickly add up.


Mother-in-law suite tiny homes solve most of these common dilemmas. Read on to discover 5 ways to create a mother-in-law suite tiny home for your loved one.

Where To Build Them And How Much Space Do You Need

For most in-law suites, you would build the structure in the backyard of your property. The layout of your yard will determine the exact position of where your unit can be.

If youre building, youll want to keep in mind where your pipes are before you break ground on the unit.

The amount of necessary space differs from unit to unit. It depends on the type of structure, the size, and the space available in your yard. A large, sprawling suburban home will have more space than a home in the middle of the city.

Youll want to check with the requirements set out by the local government about the minimum living area for an accessory dwelling unit. This number will give you a good idea of if you have the room to build an in-law suite.


Confirm Your Build With Your Hoa

If you have a Homeowners Association or other neighborhood association, make sure your plans for a guest house align with their guidelines as well. Your HOA may only allow a certain number of rentals in the neighborhood, so you may have to register for a spot if you rent out your in-law suite. They may also have rules on how many consecutive days guests can stay with or without the owners presence.

You May Like: How To Install Ceiling Fan On Patio

Gorgeous Granny Pods To Keep Aging Family Members Close

So chic, your mother-in-law won’t even mind living in your backyard!

With an aging baby-boom generation and their grown children contemplating alternatives to retirement homes, a new option is popping up in peoples backyards. Granny pods, also known as granny flats,mother-in-law cottages or the decidedly more scientific term, auxiliary dwelling units, are small, standalone living spaces built close to a main house.

These tiny homes allow aging parents to stay close to their children and grandchildren for care and companionship during retirement, often at a lower overall cost than other options. While it allows family members to stay close at a pivotal time, this solution maintains privacy and independence for all family members, giving everyone their space.


Some granny pods are outfitted specifically for accessibility, making them a great alternative to nursing homes. However, dont think that means you need to sacrifice on style. The gorgeous designs of these backyard dwellings are definitely wow-worthy!

What You Can Do With Your Rv In Your Backyard

14+ Famous Ideas Backyard Mother In Law Cottage

Theres no federal law prohibiting you from parking your RV in your backyard, but you may have to check with the HOA and the local regulations regarding parking an RV, camper, or a motorhome in your land and know about the law about can you live in an RV. The good news is that you can get the best advice from an HOA Lawyer on this matter.

Some cities have requirements to keep it away from view, while some only allow you to park it overnight. You may have to park your RV elsewhere if your area doesnt allow you to keep it in your own land.

Can you live in an RV as a Guest House?

If they do, you might want to use the RV as a guest house instead. Friends and relatives coming from another city or state can stay over while visiting you. Note, however, that people will only be able to sleep there for weeks at most.

Theres also no law prohibiting you from using it on occasion. Even if you cant live there, it can still serve as an extension of your house. You or any guest staying there will have to enter your house to use the utilities, though.


Don’t Miss: How To Remove Mold From Concrete Patio

A Beautiful Backyard Cottage For Mom And Dad

By Beth Baker, Next Avenue Contributor

First there were in-law apartments. Then came Granny pods backyard structures tricked out with medical devices for frail elders who might otherwise be in a nursing home. Now, boomers have more attractive living options for sharing households, whether its to provide housing for their parents or to move in with their grown children and grandkids.

The idea of multigenerational housing is as old as humanity. But mostly that has entailed sharing the same living space. According to W. Andrew Achenbaum, professor of social work at University of Houston and a historian of aging, one of the earliest examples of families living in separate spaces on the same property is the dowager house in England, where the widow of the estate owner would move into a smaller abode on the grounds.

In the U.S., I think the Amish deserve the credit on a more modest scale, Achenbaum said in an email. Amish elders typically pass the family farm on to the next generation and move from the main house to the adjacent grandfather house.


This allows for independence without sacrificing intergenerational family involvement, wrote John A. Hostetler in his book Amish Society.

The Gallants built this 1,200-square-foot, energy-efficient house adjacent to their son’s existing… home. Photo courtesy of Frank Gallant.

The Gallants built this 1,200-square-foot, energy-efficient house adjacent to their son’s existing home. Photo courtesy of Frank Gallant

Converting A Finished Room

You can turn an existing, finished room in your home into an in-law suite for about $10,300 to $11,250. This includes the cost to add a bathroom or thecost to build a kitchen, both needed to convert an existing room into a fully functional in-law suite. Each of these additions costs about $5,000 minimum. Installing new walls costs $1,800 per wall on average.

Also Check: How To Clean Grease Off Patio Pavers


The Studio Shed Vision

Studio Sheds vision is to inspire new ways to think about our lifestyle needs and help foster emerging trends of smarter and more flexible living spaces. Our own experience with the lifestyle benefits that come with these small structures fuels our passion and inspires us. By creating the best possible product and customer experience for this important purchase, we intend to lead this shed revolution and redefine a category along the way.

How Do You Finance A Mother In Law Suite

We Build a Tiny House in Backyard

Here are some of the most popular ways to finance a home addition like an in-law suite.

  • Home Equity Loans. A home equity loan will give you a large chunk of cash you can use to finance the construction of your in-law suite.
  • Home Equity Lines of Credit.
  • Reverse Mortgages.
  • Home Equity Investments.
  • Read Also: Rectangular Wood Burning Fire Pit

    Zoning Regulations Control What Uses Are Lawful On Property

    If zoning regulations apply to your property, a first step is to determine the applicable zoning district. In Texas, cities classify property into different zoning districts. Such districts include single-family, multi-family, agricultural, commercial, and industrial.

    If you are not sure what type of district you are in, this information is usually available on a zoning map included with the development code. The local planning department can also help you figure out what zoning applies.


    Once you identify the applicable zoning district, you will need to review the development code to determine what uses are permissible in that district. For instance, in a single-family residential zone, you will likely find single-family homes are lawful, but may find that multi-family dwellings are not. You may also find that accessory dwelling units and home occupations are legal in single-family residential zones, but not recreational vehicles for permanent residence or retail stores.

    Since the tiny house movement is relatively new, many development codes may not specifically reference tiny houses. Instead, the tiny house might meet the definition of an ADU if built on a foundation, or a recreational vehicle or mobile home if built on a trailer with wheels.

    How To Live In An Rv In Your Own Land

    You may have to sell your motor home, which you can learn more about and read more here, if you cant work out a way to keep it and live in it. If living in an RV is your dream, though, and you dont want to let the law get in the way, you may have to move somewhere else. Here can you claim an RV as a primary residence and what to consider if you want to live full-time in a camper.

    Check the State and Local Laws

    Some state and counties may permit you to live in an RV full-time, although you may have to move and purchase a plot of land in the places that allow you to do so. Check out Mobile Home Parks and such where you can buy a plot of land for this purpose. Some areas will allow you to park there long-term as long as you move the RV a couple of times for a couple of days and know about the traffic violation lawyer of can you claim an RV as a primary residence.

    These areas will already have utilities in place, so you wont have to worry about installing electricity, water, and such on your RV. Youll live in a community, and youll have neighbors who can help you if needed.

    Find a Nice Location: Can you Claim an RV as a Primary Residence

    If you find a city or state allowing you to buy land for this purpose, the next step is to find a nice location. Often, people will choose a secluded area to live a different life than the one theyve lived before. However, this poses some risks and challenges that people dont overcome with ease.

    Take Care of the Utilities

    Don’t Miss: How To Reseal Concrete Patio

    Be Sure To Comply With All Relevant Laws And Regulations

    Is important to comply with all laws and regulations that apply to the construction and development of a tiny house. If you fail to do so, the city may enforce its development code and issue fines. Even Spur, Texas will issue fines up to $500 if an owner does not comply with its tiny house ordinance.

    Talking to someone in the local planning department is a good place to start if you have questions about what land use regulations apply. Hiring a Texas land use attorney is also an excellent idea, to make sure you comply with all laws and regulations.

    Dont Just Build: Design Your Mother

    Mother in law cottage

    When you have older parents coming to live with you, you have to strike a balance between proximity and independence. They should be nearbythats the point of them moving inbut they also may want to have their own space.

    Many older adults dont want to give up the independence they have gained throughout their lives. A sudden lifestyle change like this can be a lot to bear emotionally.

    So how do you maintain their independence while keeping them close? Build a mother-in-law apartment. These separate units may be the solution your family needs to ease the transition.

    This guide will illustrate everything you need to know about in-law suits, how and where to build them, and design ideas.

    Recommended Reading: How To Fix Brown Spots In Lawn From Dog Urine

    What Is A Backyard Cottage

    A Backyard Cottage is a small, detached residential structure that shares the same lot as a single-family home. A Backyard Cottage is self-contained, having its own kitchen, bathroom, & bedroom, and physically separate from an owners primary home. Backyard Cottages are typically limited in size to no more than 800 square feet of finished living space. Backyard Cottages have also been called Detached Accessory Dwelling Units, Granny Flats, Mother-in-Law, & Carriage Houses.

    Do All States Allow Granny Pods

    The short answer is no not all states in the USA allow Granny Pods. But thats not to say that theyre absolutely banned. It may just be that the state has not yet enacted any laws and regulations concerning tiny homes or backyard homes or granny pods.

    The states that have laws in place concerning these types of dwellings are

    Again, if you live in any of these states listed above, I would recommend to check with your local city government before beginning your project.

    Read Also: Hard Top Gazebos 10×12

    What Do Granny Pods Look Like Inside

    Pod homes look just like any other home both on the inside and the outside. And there are many Granny Pod floor plans to choose from, so your parents can find one that matches their personality and lifestyle.

    What the interior looks like will depend on the company you purchase the pod from.

    Most pods have:

    • Wide doorways to allow easy access for wheelchairs
    • Even flooring for easy navigating
    • Open floor plans

    Some also have more advanced features. Evernest, for example, offers pods that come equipped with:

    • Health monitoring: Discreet monitors keep track of important health indicators, like movement, vital signs and activities. The systems communicate with caregivers.
    • Smart home features: Door locks, HVAC, lighting and A/V can be controlled remotely or automatically.
    • ADL assistance: Automatic ceiling lifts and special bathroom fixtures allow for assistance with eating, mobility, bathing and using the bathroom without the need for a caregivers assistance.
    • 24/7 help: A voice-activated virtual caregiver is available 24/7 to assist with medication reminders and schedule. It also responds to care needs and can facilitate social interactions. If needed, the virtual caregiver can contact a real care provider.

    The MEDCottage Granny Pod also includes:

    What Is An In

    ULTIMATE SMALL BACKYARD MAKEOVER | DIY PATIO | RENTER FRIENDLY

    An in-law apartment is a private space for in-laws and parents that is usually attached to or located on the same lot as their grown childs house. Many in-law suites are custom-built home additions, though converted garages, basements and stand-alone guest houses are also common. These types of dwellings are also referred to as mother-in-law suites or granny apartments.

    Recommended Reading: Patio Furniture Rooms To Go

    Frequently Asked Questions About Mother

    Why is it called a mother-in-law suite?

    Mother-in-law suites are commonly used as homes for in-laws or other family members, temporarily or permanently.

    Should I build a mother-in-law suite?

    If youre willing to spend the time and money for new construction, a mother-in-law suite can be a good investment. You can use the space to house guests or family members, rent it out to tenants, or as a work space. Just know youll pay more in property taxes.

    What Is The Average Cost Of A Granny Pod

    According to AARP.org the cost of a granny pod can range from about $50,000 to $250,000. Costs will depend on the model and amenities you choose and the location where its being built.

    The cost of a granny pod can be returned over time if you figure that assisted living can run around $5,000 per month in, say, Massachusetts, according to APlaceForMom.com. At $60,000 per year in this scenario, a granny pod could pay for itself within a year or two.

    A senior parent wouldnt have to live in one too long to offset the costs of skilled nursing facility , though. Genworth reported that the median cost of a semi-private room in a nursing home ran about $7,500 per month .

    Read Also: Lawn Mower With Electric Starter

    Read Also: Where To Get Good Patio Furniture

    A Mother In Law House For Rent Can Include The Following:

    • Anywhere from 300-1000 square feet. It must have its own door, bathroom, and kitchen to be deemed an auxiliary living unit. The value of an auxiliary dwelling unit, or an ADU, is higher than a converted room because it not only can provide a steady stream of income but also raise the value of your home should you choose to sell. If done correctly, detached ADUs can increase the value of your house by as much as 20% to 30%.
    • Storage space, such as a walk-in closet or big chest of drawers, to store clothes and other personal items. Most mother-in-law apartments are also equipped with a full bathroom consisting of a shower/bathtub and a sink.
    • Mother-in-law suites frequently have a separate entrance from the primary residence. Which provides an increased level of privacy for the occupant.
    • Additionally, mother-in-law suites can include compact-sized kitchens or kitchenettes, small dining areas, and/or small living spaces.

    You May Like: Backyard Patio Paver Design Ideas

    What Does Building An In Law Suite Cost

    9 best Mother in law cottage images on Pinterest

    Depending on your needs and desired amenities, costs to build a mother in law suite run the gamut. On average, however, the cost to build a new, detached mother-in-suite will cost you around $180,833. Adding an attached mother-in-law suite will save you a bit, as the average cost to build will run you around $154,400.

    If you decide to convert your basement into a mother-in-law suite, your costs could be even higher with an average of $185,833. While if you decide to convert your garage, on average your costs will be around $142,000.

    Of course, many factors are in play when calculating your costs. Take into account size, state of disrepair, and amenities. But generally, repurposing an existing space like an attic or garage will be more affordable than constructing an entirely new abode.

    Recommended Reading: Lawn And Garden Tractor Magazine

    You May Like: How To Spray Paint Cast Iron Patio Furniture


    RELATED ARTICLES

    Most Popular