Kitchen and bath remodels are very popular but a remodel project that’s growing rapidly is the granny flat.
“We’re having our mother-in-law live with us. She’s going to have her own attached apartment,” says homeowner Kris Harman.
Bringing the extended family under one roof makes sense for a lot of reasons. “She’s going to get to spend time with the grandkids. They’re growing like weeds.”
The Harmans bought a Chula Vista home and did a whole-house remodel with Marrokal Design & Remodeling to accommodate Anita Harman.
“It’s an appealing situation to us because she just retired and economically she would be struggling to live by herself,” says Kris Harman.
“This is working out great. It’s nice to pool your money. You can get more,” says Anita.
For John Harman, having Anita close is a big relief. “She came down from Northern California where she had a house and she was by herself. I would worry about her safety,” says John Harman.
These days homeowners of different generations are coming together under one roof for economic as well as family reasons. But often a home is not set up to provide the privacy that everyone under one roof needs. That’s when a design-build firm can help you understand what’s possible with your home and how a creative remodeling project can provide everyone comfort, safety, and privacy.
Another benefit is that remodeling projects which provide for “aging in place” or “forever” homes (homes that people can grow old in) usually add to the value of your property. Typically these remodeling projects are room additions or conversions to create a bedroom on the entry-level of a home, wider doorways to accommodate a wheelchair, and other modifications for the elderly.
If you’re considering a granny flat, here are few tips to help you make the best decisions for the entire family.
Meet and talk about all issues before moving in together. This sounds basic but often important issues are overlooked or not brought up because they’re a sensitive topic. That’s exactly why you want to have complete discussions before you all live together. Even if uncomfortable, it’s better to talk about it first.
Hire an experienced design-build firm. Do your homework and meet with the design-build remodeling firm team. Taking time to explain your needs and desires to the experts will allow you to gain valuable information about what you can expect when you create a granny flat. Using a design-build firm simplifies the process. They can ensure that the design they’re creating will match your allotted budget and time frame.
Review previous work. Nothing comes as close to the real thing as seeing previous work done by the design-build firm you’re considering for your remodel. Viewing previous jobs helps you learn a lot not only about the remodeling company but also from other homeowners. You can see what they have done to their homes to enhance them for extended-family living situations. For instance, you might see how some have put in elevators for the elderly while others have sectioned off a portion of the house so that the granny flat has it’s own first-floor entryway.
Finally, remember that this is a new living arrangement for everyone. It can be delightful and challenging at the same time. Having the right attitude and the best remodelers to guide you through your home transformation will help to ensure a successful happy home.
Are you considering an extended-family living situation? What are your thoughts about this style of living?