How to Make Your Home a Happier Place
Dusty Rhodes • June 16, 2025
Create a haven that makes you feel good every time you walk through the front door
We spend so much time in our homes that it’s important that they bring us joy. Follow these inspiring ideas to spread a little happiness in your home.
1. Let In the Sunshine
Nothing will lift your mood like sunlight beaming in through your windows. To make sure that your home gets its full quota of rays, keep the glass clean and free from streaks and finger marks.
To clean the outsides, it’s often best to call in a professional, but the insides are easy to do yourself. Use a dry brush to sweep away dust from the frames, then sponge the glass with soapy water. Finally, remove the water by making S shapes on the window with a squeegee. Windows need to be cleaned at least twice a year. Don’t think yours are dirty? Give them a clean and you’ll immediately notice the difference.
2. Promote a Warm Welcome
Ensure that you feel good every time you come home by creating an inviting hallway. You’ll need good storage for your outdoor paraphernalia so that the entrance is tidy as you enter. Include hooks for coats, a shoe rack, and baskets for scarves, gloves and umbrellas.
Freshen up the area by painting the walls and door. The key is to choose a color scheme that makes you happy. Add mood-lifting extras such as flowers, a mirror or a beautifully scented reed diffuser.
3. Make Your Bed
A good day needs a cheery start, so one of the most positive things you can do at home is make your bed. By tidying your sleeping area when you wake up, you’ll begin your day on an upbeat note. This simple act will make you feel organized and ready for action.
Then later on, when you head sleepily up to bed, you’ll find a restful space to relax.
4. Get a Good Night’s Sleep
To make sure that your sleep is even more restful, it’s best to be in a completely dark room. When it’s dark, our bodies produce more of the hormone melatonin, which makes us feel tired. Light, in contrast, gives powerful cues to the brain that it’s time to wake up. To keep street lamps or early-morning sunlight from poking in, put up blinds or curtains with a blackout lining.
Similarly, keep a low-wattage lamp on your bedside table to help you wind down before you go to sleep.
5. Bring In Fresh Flowers
A vase of beautiful flowers instantly cheers up a room and lifts a person’s mood. By putting flowers on your kitchen table, you’ll connect with nature every time you come into the room.
Your choice of flowers can be anything from a huge mixed bouquet to a simple seasonal sprig. Start in January with early daffodils and hyacinths, then keep checking to see what’s around throughout the year. If you have outside space, try growing flowers that you can cut.
6. Fill It With Happy Memories
Display things around your home that remind you of friends, family and places you’ve visited. Put travel souvenirs where you can see them to remind you of experiences and perhaps to prompt you to make new plans.
We all have hundreds of photos on our digital equipment nowadays, but we often forget to print them. Set an evening aside to sort through them, get a selection printed and plan a creative way to display them.
7. Share It With Animals
Want to de-stress after a long day? How about curling up on the sofa and stroking your pet? Studies have shown that the simple act of cuddling an animal releases the hormone oxytocin, which makes us feel calm.
The benefits don’t stop there, though. By keeping a pet at home, you’ll have the opportunity to form a relationship with another creature, and hopefully you’ll be rewarded by lots of fun and cuddles.
8. Do Those Quick Fixes
Those household nuisances, such as leaky faucets and broken door handles, shouldn’t be ignored. Every time you come across something that needs fixing, you could get irritated.
So rather than putting off these annoying jobs, face them head-on. A little effort will result in a well-run home with no tricky hindrances, and you’ll get a welcome feeling of accomplishment to boot.
9. Make a Space for You
In a busy household, it’s important to find a place to gather your thoughts and spend a few minutes by yourself. Being alone for a while will allow you to recharge and get ready to face the world again.
If you can’t grab a whole room for yourself, a cozy corner will do just fine. If you have a hobby, such as crocheting or painting, create a designated space for it. Devise storage that will keep your equipment at hand so that you can dip in and out whenever you have spare time.
10. Connect With Your Neighbors
What really makes most of us happy are our relationships with other people. By making friends with your neighbors, you’ll be able to nurture those relationships whenever you’re at home.
Make the effort to say hello whenever you see your neighbors and offer to water their plants while they’re away. Before you know it, you’ll be well on your way to turning your street into a real community.
11. Make Healthy Eating Easy
Encourage a positive lifestyle by keeping healthy food within reach. The most obvious way is to put a bowl of fruit on the table, but there are other things you can do.
Avoid last-minute dinner decisions by displaying a meal planner in the kitchen, with nourishing options for the whole week. If you have children, get them involved by asking them to contribute their ideas.
Think of ways you can make it easy to choose a wholesome snack. Keep nuts and granola bars in tempting glass jars. If you’ve invested in a juicer or yogurt maker, don’t let it languish in the cupboard. Make room for it on the counter so that you’ll be more inclined to use it.
Source:
Houzz
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Backyard privacy does not mean sacrificing style and comfort. Simple backyard privacy ideas like incorporating tall fences, dense evergreen plantings, and strategic placement of outdoor structures like gazebos can significantly enhance backyard privacy. A well-designed private backyard not only provides a comforting space but can also significantly boost your property’s value and curb appeal, all while offering a greater sense of security. Having a private backyard space is a dream for many homeowners. It’s where you can unwind, entertain, or simply enjoy nature without feeling exposed. In this Redfin article, we’ll explore a variety of effective backyard privacy ideas that can help you create your perfect personal space, no matter if you’re in Boulder, CO , or Fort Worth, TX. 1. Use plants to create natural privacy People often associate backyard privacy ideas with unattractive features; however, one of the most natural and beautiful ways to create privacy is with plants. Think beyond a simple fence and consider a living screen. Not only do plants help with making your garden beautiful, but actively shelter your space from unwanted eyes. Expert tip from The Mulch Mound : A great private outdoor space starts with well-designed mulch beds—they’re not just practical, they’re the foundation of a polished, peaceful yard. Deep, curved mulch beds lined with clean edging help define zones and guide the eye, making your space feel both organized and expansive. Layering tall shrubs and ornamental grasses within those beds adds natural screening without sacrificing style. For extra privacy, tuck seating areas behind mulch-lined plantings or use trellises with vines to soften fencing. Thoughtful mulch use keeps everything low-maintenance while tying together the look and function of your outdoor retreat. Additional suggestions and ideas for creating a natural privacy wall include purchasing the following: Tall shrubs and trees: Fast-growing evergreens like Leyland cypress or arborvitae can quickly create a dense visual barrier. Deciduous trees like maples or oaks offer seasonal privacy and shade. Vines on a trellis: Climbing vines like wisteria, trumpet vine, or clematis can rapidly cover a fence, trellis, or pergola, adding a lush, green wall to your space. Bamboo: Certain types of bamboo, especially clumping varieties, can grow tall and dense, offering a tropical and effective privacy solution. Just be sure to research the best types for your climate and consider root barriers for running varieties. 2. Add outdoor structures for built-in seclusion Outdoor structures offer more than just shelter; they can enhance privacy in your outdoor space. These structures provide a framework upon which you can build a more secluded environment. By thoughtfully integrating them into your backyard design, you can create distinct zones that feel intimate and protected from outside views. Pergolas, gazebos, and even shed walls offer more than just shelter; they can be excellent privacy enhancers for your outdoor space. Expert tip from Tommy Pollina Landscape : “A great private space doesn’t just block views — it feels calm, tucked away, and thoughtfully put together. We like to blend privacy fencing or masonry walls with natural screening like evergreens, tall ornamental grasses, or layered shrubs. This creates a barrier without making the space feel boxed in. Features like trellises, pergolas, or plant-covered arbors can give you cozy, secluded spots within the yard that still feel open and inviting.” Consider these structural privacy boosters: Pergolas with curtains: Add flowing outdoor curtains to create a flexible, intimate retreat. Screened-in gazebos: These create a private outdoor room perfect for dining or lounging, without worry about bugs or prying eyes. 3. Try stylish and strategic privacy screens Standalone screens crafted from materials like wood, metal, or even repurposed items are perfect for blocking specific sight lines. Beyond their functional benefits, these screens can also serve as stylish additions to your yard’s aesthetic. Add character with planters or shelving Consider screens with integrated planters for a living wall effect, or those with built-in shelving to display outdoor decor and lighting, further enhancing their aesthetic and utility. The material choice itself can dictate the style. Aluminum offers a modern edge, while reclaimed wood provides a rustic look. Use strategic placement to define outdoor zones When integrating privacy screens, think about their strategic placement to maximize both privacy and visual appeal. Instead of just blocking an undesirable view, consider how a screen can define an outdoor “room” or create a captivating backdrop for a seating area or garden bed. For instance, a series of smaller, complementary screens can be used to create a meandering pathway, subtly guiding the eye while maintaining seclusion. You can also use them to visually separate different zones within your yard, such as a dining area from a lounging space, giving each its own distinct ambiance. Go portable for adaptable privacy Portable decorative screens offer incredible flexibility. These can be moved around as needed to provide privacy for impromptu gatherings, block sun glare, or simply refresh the look of your patio. Imagine screens with wheels for easy repositioning, or lightweight foldable designs that can be stored away when not in use. The key is to see these screens not just as barriers, but as dynamic design elements that can transform your backyard into a personalized sanctuary. 4. Choose fencing that adds both beauty and function Fences and walls are classic backyard privacy ideas that don’t have to be boring. Increasing your backyard privacy can be easily achieved with a tall fence, provided your budget and space permit. With numerous styles and heights available, you’re sure to find one that works for you and your home. Tip from Veronica Nguyen of Pentagon Fencing : A great private outdoor space seamlessly blends privacy, beauty, and functionality.” She continues suggesting, “When it comes to fencing solutions, I recommend tall, solid options like Colorbond Fences or Modular Walls for both durability and visual appeal. Modular walls are an outstanding choice. Not only do they offer a sleek, modern appearance, but they also provide excellent acoustic insulation, helping to block out street noise and enhance the feeling of seclusion. Modular walls and Colourbond fences are also highly durable, low maintenance, and come with a variety of stunning colors to suit any home style. Pairing both Colourbond fences or Modular Walls with greenery or vertical gardens softens the structure, creates a resort-like atmosphere, and adds a natural buffer. Strategic layout is key, so using screens or pergolas to section off seating or BBQ areas for a more intimate feel is an ideal combination. Additionally, integrating up/down LED lights will cast a soft glow along the surface of modular walls or slat fences, creating a sleek, modern look while highlighting textures and finishes. These are perfect for evening ambience and curb appeal. Other stylish fencing options include: Wood fences: Stain or paint them to match your home, or add lattice or custom cutouts for personality. Gabion walls: Wire cages filled with rock or brick offer a modern, industrial look and help reduce sound. Corrugated metal panels: Durable and edgy, these are low-maintenance and make a striking statement. Combine fences with greenery: Add vines, planters, or vertical gardens to soften the structure and create a resort-like vibe. Strategic lighting can also highlight textures and boost nighttime curb appeal. 5. Incorporate elements to reduce noise Achieving sound privacy in your backyard is just as important as visual privacy for creating a private retreat. Unwanted noise from neighbors, traffic, or urban environments can disrupt your peace and make it difficult to relax or entertain outdoors. While physical barriers like fences can block some sound, they often aren’t enough to create a quiet atmosphere. Strategically incorporating elements that absorb, block, or mask sound, you can transform your backyard. Use white noise: One of the most effective ways to enhance sound privacy is by introducing white noise. The soothing sound of water features can be incredibly effective at masking undesirable external noises. Fountains, with their gentle trickling sounds, can create a calming ambiance and help to muffle distant sounds. For more substantial noise reduction, consider larger water features like waterfalls or bubbling rock formations, which produce a greater volume of white noise. Joe Sexton from Inch Calculator suggests that incorporating water features can elevate the ambiance by masking noise and creating a relaxing retreat. Joe writes, “Elevate the ambiance by incorporating water features or outdoor speakers to mask noise and create a relaxing retreat.” Layer in natural sound barriers: Another approach to improving sound privacy involves utilizing dense plantings and thoughtful landscaping. While plants primarily offer visual screening, thick hedges, layered shrubs, and tall ornamental grasses can also help to absorb and diffuse sound waves, creating a quieter environment. Combining these natural elements with other structures can further enhance their sound-dampening capabilities. Veronica Nguyen of Pentagon Fencing recommends pairing fences, like Colorbond Fences or Modular Walls, with greenery or vertical gardens, noting that this combination softens the structure and adds a natural buffer. Additionally, elements like gabion walls, which are made from wire cages filled with rocks or bricks, are excellent at providing both visual privacy and sound dampening due to their dense material. Reposition furniture and structures: Finally, consider the strategic placement of outdoor structures and furniture to help create a more sound-protected area. Modular walls, for instance, are highlighted for their excellent acoustic insulation, which helps to block out street noise and enhance the feeling of seclusion. Draping a pergola with outdoor curtains can offer flexible privacy, allowing you to close them for an intimate atmosphere, which can also help to muffle sounds. Similarly, a screened-in gazebo creates a private outdoor room ideal for dining or lounging without concerns about external noise. By layering various sound-dampening techniques, you can effectively minimize disruptions and maximize the peace and quiet in your backyard. A final note on backyard privacy ideas As we’ve explored, creating a private backyard doesn’t mean sacrificing style or comfort. By thoughtfully integrating features like tall fences, dense evergreen plantings, and strategically placed outdoor structures, you can enhance your backyard’s privacy. Well-thought-out backyard privacy ideas provide a comforting space for relaxation and enjoyment. A home is meant to be your sacred area, and with these ideas, you’re on your way to creating the peaceful outdoor space you’ve always dreamed of.
Do you think a brand-new home means a bigger price tag? Think again. Right now, something unique is happening in the housing market. According to the Census and the National Association of Realtors (NAR), the median price of newly built homes is actually lower than the median price for existing homes (ones that have already been lived in): You read that right. That brand new, never-been-lived-in house may cost less than the one built 20 years ago in a neighborhood just down the street. So, if you wrote off a new build because you assumed they’d be financially out of reach, here’s what you should know. You could be missing out on some of the best options in today’s housing market. Why Are Newly Built Homes Less Expensive Right Now? 1. Builders Are Building Smaller Homes Builders know that buyers are struggling with affordability today. So, instead of building big houses that may not sell, they’re building smaller ones that will. According to the Census , the average size of a newly built single-family home has dropped considerably over the past few years. And as size goes down, the price often does too. Smaller homes use fewer materials, which makes them less expensive to build. That helps builders keep prices lower so more people can afford them. 2. Builders Are Offering Price Cuts and Incentives In May, according to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), 34% of builders lowered their prices, with an average price drop of 5% . That’s because they want to be sure they’re selling the inventory they have before they build more. On top of that, 61% of builders also offered sales incentives – like helping with closing costs or buying down your mortgage rate. These are all ways builders are making their homes more affordable, so these homes sell in today’s market. Your Next Step? Ask Your Agent What’s Available Near You If you’re trying to buy a home right now, be sure to talk to your agent to find out what builders are doing in and around your area. They can find new home communities, as well as builders who are offering incentives or discounts, and hidden gems you might not uncover on your own. Plus, buying a newly built home often means there are different steps in the process than if you purchase a home that’s been lived in before. That’s why it’s so important to have your own agent who can explain the fine print. You want a pro in your corner to advocate for you, negotiate on your behalf, and make sure your best interests come first. Bottom Line You could get a home that’s brand new, with modern features, at a price that’s even lower than some older homes. Talk with a local real estate agent about what you’re looking for and see if a newly built home is the right fit for you.
Ever feel like you could use a little more… personal space? Or perhaps your family dynamics could benefit from a touch of architectural ingenuity? Enter the granny pod, also known as the mother-in-law suite, an increasingly popular housing solution that’s way more than just a spare bedroom. These aren’t your grandma’s dusty attic; they’re thoughtfully designed, often self-contained living spaces popping up in backyards across the country. Paola Jean-Marain with Tiny Eco Homes UK shares, “Mother-in-law suites offer a unique way to keep loved ones close while still maintaining independence and privacy. With thoughtful design, these compact homes can feel just as warm, personal, and inviting as the main house — tailored to meet both emotional and practical needs in a beautifully small footprint.” From planning a new build in Newnan, GA, to upgrading an existing property in Austin, TX, or preparing your Suffolk, VA home for aging parents, this guide offers comprehensive insights into navigating alternative living spaces. What is a mother-in-law suite? In its simplest form, a mother-in-law suite is a residence created within a home, an addition built onto a home, or a separate dwelling unit intended for the use of an in-law or relative. The suite can be either connected to or built on the same lot as a home that’s occupied by other family members. Often, the purpose of a mother-in-law suite is to make it possible for elderly family members to live near their adult children or family members, yet still, maintain their independence and privacy. This is very common in multi-generational households where children often live with their parents and grandparents in the same house. The concept of a mother-in-law suite, or now more popularized as the “granny flat,” has been around for decades. It was most popular in post-WWII America until zoning laws were put in place that eventually shut down their construction. Today, the mother-in-law suite, whether it’s a portion of a house that has been remodeled to accommodate a relative, or a smaller, detached “granny flat,” is beginning to see a resurgence with homeowners. What makes up a mother-in-law suite? A typical mother-in-law suite consists of a sleeping quarter, living quarter, kitchen, and bathroom. Though it can be attached to the main house, the living quarters typically remain separate from the rest of the house and household, yet close enough so grandparents can help with grandchildren, and/or adult children can care for their parents. Mother-in-law suites can be as simple as a single room that has a bed, couch, and place to eat, along with access to a bathroom, but ideally, it would have its own private bathroom. They can also be located in a separate portion of the house, such as a basement with a separate door, garage, or attic that has been remodeled and suited to the residents’ needs. The growing allure: Why are mother-in-law suites gaining traction? Mother-in-law suites are becoming an increasingly popular home trend among families. One significant driver is the rise of multigenerational households; according to USA Today, approximately 51 million Americans live in such arrangements, a 10% increase since 2007. This living situation allows both generations to share in the financial responsibilities of homeownership. Beyond financial sharing, these suites can offer independent living for post-graduate adult children, helping them manage debt as they begin their careers and save for their own homes. The sharp increase in assisted living facility costs for aging adults is another compelling reason for their popularity. The national average monthly cost for assisted living in 2024 is around $4,917, a sum that can create a financial strain on both parents and children. A granny pod, however, can be a more affordable long-term solution, potentially breaking even within a few years when compared to nursing home care, which can average over $100,000 per year for a private room. Finally, the surge in permanent work-from-home arrangements has also fueled interest in in-law suites. Pew Research indicates that about 54% of employed workers desire to work from home, nearly a 30% increase from before the Coronavirus pandemic. Many prefer a designated area for work, keeping it separate from the main family living space. What are the common types of mother-in-law suites? Mother-in-law suites come in several forms, each offering distinct advantages: Interior mother-in-law suites: These are situated within the main family residence. This could involve a converted basement or a section of the main house, like a study or den. Some homes are designed with floor plans that readily accommodate extended family members, featuring bedrooms at opposite ends of the house and separate bathroom facilities for both generations, though they might share a living room, dining area, and kitchen. If a basement is transformed into an in-law suite, it typically includes its own kitchen, bedroom, bath, and living area, often with a walk-out basement providing a separate entrance. Attached mother-in-law suites: This type involves a separate living space built onto an existing home, often as an addition to the side or back of the house. Detached mother-in-law suites: Detached mother-in-law suites, also known as accessory dwelling units (ADUs) or secondary suites, are typically smaller, independent homes built on the same lot as a single-family residential house. These structures offer significant flexibility, varying in size, features, and styles to suit individual tastes and needs. Ian Butcher, Founding Partner of Best Practice Architecture , frequently receives inquiries about these detached units. He notes they are excellent for helping aging family members live autonomously yet safely close by, or they can serve as a valuable source of passive income or a supportive landing spot for a college graduate returning home. While regulations for detached ADUs are easing, such projects can still be complex and expensive. Even if simple, they are complete homes requiring a kitchen, bathroom, and all systems of a larger residence. Butcher emphasizes understanding local development rules, including property lines, setbacks, lot coverage, and parking. He stresses that hiring a licensed professional is crucial to navigate the project. He also recommends planning for flexible usage and creating distinct private yard spaces for both the primary home and the new detached ADU Attic or garage In-law suites: This involves remodeling the garage or attic portion of the home to accommodate relatives. The remodel usually includes a bedroom, bathroom, kitchen, and living area. An attic space over a stand-alone garage can offer even greater privacy than an attic within the main house. “As these specific tiny units are meant to be occupied by elderly people who may have some mobility difficulties, it is essential to consider accessibility and ergonomics. Typically, when designing in a tiny space, some recommended distances and sizes are reduced to fit more in the limited space. But when elderly people are the inhabitants, it is crucial to have enough free space and room around objects, and this is especially true if we talk about the bathroom. Tiny enclosed shower cubicles are definitely a no-go, as well as high thresholds. When planning for an appropriate position in the garden, consider having wider, lower steps with a good, solid railing for support, if the house is raised above the ground level. Ideally, accommodate a gently inclined ramp instead of stairs.” – Hristina Hristova, Co-founder/partner at Koleliba How much does a mother-in-law suite cost to build? The cost to build a mother-in-law suite varies greatly depending on which type of mother-in-law suite best suits your situation, how big of a suite you plan to build, and the specific amenities you want to incorporate into the space. Let’s look at each option a little closer. Interior mother-in-law suites: Like each of these options, you can spend quite a bit remodeling or finishing a basement into a mother-in-law suite. However, redoing a basement or portion of the main house into a separate suite for mom can be a less expensive option than building a detached mother-in-law residence from scratch. According to HGTV, it can cost less than $3,000 to more than $200,000 to convert a basement into extra usable space. Keep in mind when working in a basement, you could run into problematic issues such as water damage that would require costly remediation before you ever even get started on the actual addition. Attached mother-in-law suites: Buildinganadu.com states that the cost to build a 500 square foot attached mother-in-law suite costs as little as $106,000 or up to $216,000 depending on the full scope of the project. Again, this can vary depending upon the size of the space, how elaborate it is, and whether you decide to do any of the work yourself. Detached mother-in-law suites: According to Bob Vila , the cost to buy a new prefab detached granny pod can range from as little as $30,000 for a “bare-bones” structure, up to $125,000 on the high end. This includes the cost of delivery and placement on an already constructed concrete pad. Of course, the cost to build a detached structure can be much higher, should you decide to create a smart home for example. Garage mother-in-law suites: Expect to spend $15,000- $20,000 to convert a garage or existing shed into a mother-in-law suite, according to Bob Vila. Typical ranges and variances The cost of a mother-in-law suite varies significantly, as it’s influenced by numerous individual factors. While pinpointing an exact price is challenging, utilizing existing spaces like a basement, attic, or garage can significantly reduce expenses compared to building a new standalone structure. Overall, the cost to create a mother-in-law suite can range from $5,000 to over $300,000. According to HomeGuide , converting an existing space typically falls between $5,000 and $100,000, whereas new additions or detached structures can range from $30,000 to $280,000. How do you build a mother-in-law suite? Building a mother-in-law suite takes forethought and planning, as you might expect. Whether you are adding an addition to the main house, remodeling a garage or basement, or going all out and building a separate structure in the backyard, you will need to check codes and ordinances to determine what is, and isn’t allowed in your area. These zoning laws, occupancy codes, and even homeowner’s association covenants, conditions, and restrictions (CCRs) will dictate exactly what you can do. Once you have verified that your project is permitted , you will need to decide how much, if any, sweat equity you will put into the project, or if you would rather pay to have someone else complete the whole project for you. As you prepare to start building, think about the future use of the suite, especially if you are building a detached unit. You may want to rent the unit out and having separate electricity, water, and gas run to the ADU will enable you to keep utilities separate from the main house. This will also allow you to shut them completely off if the building were to be vacant for a period of time. Keep your relative’s needs in mind when you are in the design stage as well. Will doors need to be built that can accommodate a walker or wheelchair? Do handrails need to be placed in the bathrooms? How about a zero-curb shower entrance? Thinking about the future can make a more seamless transition for your relatives down the road. What else can mother-in-law suites be used for? Sometime in the future, your mother-in-law suite may become vacant. If so, there are various options that you can do with that space, regardless of whether it’s attached to the main house, built into the basement, or is a completely separate structure. Houses with mother-in-law suites can double as a backyard office , a long-term rental property (check your local codes), an Airbnb, a business endeavor such as a yoga studio or art studio, a home gym, nanny quarters, or even a commercial kitchen for a baking/cooking business. A vacant, detached in-law suite could also just be used as a she-shed or man cave, the possibilities are endless. Where can you build a mother-in-law suite? The legal landscape for this living setup, often officially known as accessory dwelling units (ADUs), varies considerably across the United States. However, several states have implemented more ADU-friendly legislation, simplifying the process for homeowners to add these structures. Understanding state-level opportunities California: California leads the movement for mother-in-law suites, having enacted statewide legislation to streamline the permitting process and encourage their development. Cities like Fresno were early adopters. Robert Voight , owner and general contractor in Orange County, highlights that homeowners there can typically build units up to 1,200 sq ft, with four-foot setbacks and reduced parking requirements near transit. He adds that while planning, design, and permitting for a granny pod or mother-in-law suite might take four to six months, construction typically averages another five to seven months. Modern mother-in-law suites now often incorporate smart home integration, energy-efficient systems, and adaptable layouts designed to accommodate multigenerational living, remote work, or wellness spaces. Prioritizing features such as no-step entries, wider doorways, and separate entrances ensures comfort, independence, and long-term livability for residents of these specialized living spaces. Oregon: With a focus on innovative housing solutions, Oregon generally has favorable ADU regulations, particularly in urban areas like Portland. Texas : While considered ADU-friendly, it’s crucial to check local county regulations as laws can vary. Cities like Austin are more progressive. Florida : Several counties, such as Sarasota, are becoming more open to ADUs. Arizona : If a tiny house or granny pod is built on a solid foundation, it’s typically considered a secondary dwelling unit and subject to similar regulations as a detached single-family home. Georgia : This state is also among those with increasing acceptance of ADUs. Colorado : While allowing ADUs, Colorado’s regulations often come with specific conditions. Massachusetts : Some cities and towns offer incentives or reduced restrictions to encourage ADU construction. North Carolina : ADU regulations are typically handled at the county level, so investigating local ordinances is important. Utah : Regarding specific state requirements for mother-in-law suites, JP Coles, chief sales and marketing officer for Nest Tiny Homes , notes that in Utah, an ADU or tiny home must be a permanent structure and cannot be on wheels. This means it requires both a concrete foundation and utilities such as water, sewer, and power. Additionally, engineering and architectural plans must be submitted for permits and approved before construction can begin. Washington : Generally becoming more accommodating towards tiny homes and ADUs, especially if built on a permanent foundation, though some regions may have restrictions. Tennessee : Tennessee has a specific law allowing “temporary family health care structures,” under certain conditions related to the occupant’s health and the caregiver’s relationship. Do mother-in-law suites add value to my property? Yes, mother-in-law suites can increase your property’s value , though precisely by how much is difficult to quantify. The variations in in-law suites, finishes, and amenities all impact the value differently. Despite their growing popularity, mother-in-law suites have been challenging for appraisers and real estate professionals to value due to a lack of suitable real estate comparables. However, national averages offer some insight: a basement remodel can increase a home’s value by nearly $50,000, while adding another master suite can increase it by $80,000 on average. Ultimately, the value gained from adding a mother-in-law suite largely depends on your area and the type of addition you make. As a seller, recognize that your home might not appeal to everyone, especially if you convert one of two garage spaces into a mother-in-law suite in a neighborhood where two-car garages are standard. Conversely, expanding your home to accommodate a relative could significantly increase its overall value and appeal to homebuyers when you decide to sell. Beyond monetary gain, there’s also the personal value this extra space provides while you’re using it, whether for elderly relatives, frequent guests, or a recent college graduate. If you want to know more about your property value, use Redfin’s home value estimator to get a free, instant home-value estimate, see nearby sales and market trends, and update your home facts and photos.
