What Is a Mother-in-Law Suite, and Does It Add Property Value?

Dusty Rhodes • June 2, 2025

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.




Source: Redfin


Dusty Rhodes Properties is the Best Realtor in Myrtle Beach! We do everything in our power to help you find the home of your dreams. With experience, expertise, and passion, we are the perfect partner for you in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. We love what we do and it shows. With more than 22 years of experience in the field, we know our industry like the back of our hands. There’s no challenge too big or too small, and we dedicate our utmost energy to every project we take on. We search thousands of the active and new listings from Aynor, Carolina Forest, Conway, Garden City Beach, Longs, Loris, Murrells Inlet, Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach, Pawleys Island, and Surfside Beach real estate listings to find the hottest deals just for you!

Share

What Everyone’s Getting Wrong About the Rise in New Home Inventory

By Dusty Rhodes • September 2, 2025
You may have seen talk online that new home inventory is at its highest level since the crash. And if you lived through the crash back in 2008, seeing new construction is up again may feel a little scary. But here’s what you need to remember: a lot of what you see online is designed to get clicks. So, you may not be getting the full story. A closer look at the data and a little expert insight can change your perspective completely. Why This Isn’t Like 2008 While it’s true the number of new homes on the market hit its highest level since the crash, that’s not a reason to worry. That’s because new builds are just one piece of the puzzle. They don’t tell the full story of what’s happening today. To get the real picture of how much inventory we have and how it compares to the surplus we saw back then, you’ve got to look at both new homes and existing homes (homes that were lived in by a previous owner). When you combine those two numbers , it’s clear overall supply looks very different today than it did around the crash ( see graph below ):

Homebuilders Are Relying More on Buyer Incentives To Battle Sluggish Market

By Dusty Rhodes • August 25, 2025
omebuilder sentiment remained weak in August, with the use of incentives hitting a post-COVID high as builders struggled to lure reluctant buyers off the sidelines. In August, 66% of builders reported using sales incentives such as discounts or mortgage rate buydowns , up from 62% in July and the highest percentage in at least five years, according to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB)/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index (HMI) released Monday. The survey showed that 37% of builders reported cutting prices in August—little changed from 38% in July. The average price reduction was 5% this month, where it has held steady since November. Overall builder confidence in the market for newly built single-family homes was 32 in August, down one point from July. Anything below 50 reflects negative homebuilder sentiment about the market. “Affordability continues to be the top challenge for the housing market and buyers are waiting for mortgage rates to drop to move forward,” said NAHB Chairman Buddy Hughes . “Builders are also grappling with supply-side headwinds, including ongoing frustrations with regulatory policies connected to developing land and building homes.”

18 Reasons To Hire A Cleaning Service: Your Home Will Thank You

By Dusty Rhodes • August 18, 2025
Sooner or later, dust, dirt, crumbs, dander, hair, and other nameless debris build up on the surfaces of your furniture and begin to linger in the air of your home, requiring a deep and thorough clean. While many home cleaning projects can be addressed using standard supplies and a little elbow grease, others can be a more substantial undertaking that requires the need to hire a cleaning service. Bigger projects, like roof and exterior window cleaning, can require equipment, time, and safety precautions better left to professional cleaners. Likewise, delicate or valued items such as antique rugs or draperies, which may seem like easy cleaning tasks to undertake, can easily result in damage or fading if cleaned improperly. Whether you’re looking to get a jump-start on some spring cleaning for your apartment in Los Angeles, CA, increase the home value for your home in Atlanta, GA, or tackle some general home maintenance projects around your rental house in Portland, OR, here are 18 reasons why you should hire a cleaning service for just a little extra help. 1) Black or green areas are overpowering your roof’s appearance Have you noticed dark stains or green areas appearing on your roof? These substances are more than likely caused by algae, fungus, lichen, or moss, which can lead to shingle deterioration and wood rot if left unattended. Roofing generally doesn’t need regular cleaning, but when mold, algae, or soot residue starts to build up, it’s best to call in a professional. Proper cleaning extends the lifespan of your roofing materials or shingles and can even improve your home’s curb appeal . However, spending time on a roof can be very dangerous without the right safety equipment. According to the National Roofing Contractors Association, the chemicals used to clean these substances off your roof can be caustic, meaning they can cause burns. Most roof cleaners contain sodium hypochlorite and occasionally zinc sulfate, so this is a job best left to the pros. Roofs should be cleaned as needed, generally once every few years. However, homes in areas with a harsher climate may need more regular attention. 2) Rainwater is overflowing from your gutters Gutters are often forgotten in our maintenance routines, but they play a crucial role in preventing water damage in a home, and neglecting them could have serious – and costly – effects in the long run. Efficient gutters will collect and divert rainwater or melted snow, preventing it from damaging walls and the foundation. However, leaves, sticks, dirt, and even birds nests can quickly clog gutters, compromising their functionality. One of the reasons to hire a cleaning service is that a professional cleaner has the necessary equipment to prevent the outlet from getting clogged by clearing leaves, soil, or organic debris that frequently collects in gutters. Standing and climbing up and down a ladder while rooting around in the gutters can also be a dangerous task for a homeowner, especially on larger homes with substantial gutter systems. Professional cleaners have the industrial-strength equipment needed to effectively clear out clogs and inspect your gutters to ensure no repairs are required. Gutters should be cleaned at least twice a year and potentially more frequently for homes under large trees or in seasons with heavy rainfall and high winds. 3) There’s a lack of natural light coming through your windows Windows are easy enough to clean on the inside, but outside can be another story. This is especially true for exterior windows in larger homes with multiple stories or condos that are part of a larger building. It might seem like a relatively simple job to clean your home’s exterior windows on your own, but it comes with its own set of challenges. Using too much detergent or not rinsing that detergent off properly after washing can cause more dust and grime to stick to windows over time, making the glass dirtier than before. Moreover, if you live in an area with frequent rainfall like Seattle, WA , or New Orleans, LA , getting your windows professionally cleaned before a rainstorm prevents dirt and dust residue from scratching up and sticking to the glass. In these cases, hiring a professional is the best way to guarantee clean windows. Regular cleaning of your home’s exterior windows will not only keep them looking their best it also protects the window glass from long-term damage. Exterior windows should be cleaned annually at a minimum, but ideally, twice a year in parts of the country with high pollen counts. 4) A whistling sound is coming from your furnace A furnace system is ultimately best left to the professionals, from installation to cleaning. Dust and dirt can accumulate on any surface over time, and furnaces are no exception. A definite reason to hire a cleaning service is that the average homeowner might miss places where grime and dirt can build up and may not have the proper tools to give furnace systems the thorough cleaning they need. High pitched whistling or scraping noises are signs that dust, dirt, hair, or, if you have pets, dander could be clogging your furnace, indicating that it’s due for a filter change or cleaning. A dusty furnace can also cause breakdowns in your heating system by restricting airflow and lead to higher energy bills even when you’re not using your furnace more than usual. Furnace cleaning, which includes cleaning the combustion chamber and replacing the oil filter, should be performed at least once a year and is best handled by a pro. Getting a professional to clean and maintain your furnace annually will not only save you money on expensive repairs in the long run but also remove the dust and debris that will inevitably build up throughout the year. 5) You start to notice the high traffic areas in your carpets Carpets are a major component in your home and are subjected to heavy use daily, so we naturally want them to look as pristine as possible. While vacuuming is a good intermediary to remove loose particles on the carpet’s surface, it may not be enough to keep carpets truly clean. Soil that is inevitably tracked in and left in the carpet for too long can work its way into the fibers, making their removal highly difficult. And, over time, carpets and area rugs can become perfect traps for bacteria, allergens, pollens, and other pollutants that are naturally in the air. A professional carpet cleaner extracts the hidden particles from your carpet, from caked-in stains to debris, and goes above and beyond what even at-home carpet cleaners can do. Plus, regular carpet cleaning can increase home value and prolongs your carpet’s performance and is key to maintaining a tidy home. High traffic areas may need cleaning as often as twice a year, while lesser-used areas of a home may need cleaning once a year or whenever stains or spots are visible. 6) Your antique or expensive rugs are beginning to show some wear Antique or luxe rugs, such as Persian or oriental rugs, aren’t a good fit for a DIY carpet cleaner. In most cases, these rugs are delicate and easily destroyed, making their care a reason to hire a cleaning service. Plus, improper drying could result in a moldy rug. Pros know how to best clean fibers without causing damage, altering color, or leaving stains. Plus, you’ll be extending the lifespan of your rugs by ensuring it’s getting the necessary care by a professional rug cleaner. Since antique rugs don’t need regular cleaning – every year or two is fine – you can maintain your rugs with regular vacuuming unless spills or other messes occur. 7) Your drapery appears discolored Decorating with drapery is a great way to quickly add visual interest to your space and block out sunlight. However, over time, drapes naturally start to collect dust, odors, and allergens and may pose a health issue for people with allergies. Simple curtains, like those made of cotton or polyester, can go in the washer, but others made of sensitive fabric, such as silk or linen, might require more significant attention. At a minimum, dry cleaning may be necessary to clean without causing damage. Another reason to hire a cleaning service is that if the proper treatment method isn’t listed clearly, a professional cleaner can provide guidance on the appropriate cleaning required to remove dust, dirt, mold, or mildew. Lighter drapes more prone to dirt should be cleaned every six months, while heavier window treatments need care at least once a year to remove dust or dirt. In between professional cleaning, you can keep your drapery clean by regularly dusting them. 8) You want to extend the life of your home Routine deep cleaning can go a long way to protecting your home investment. “Hiring a professional cleaning company reduces wear and tear on home surfaces,” says Eric Phan of Bellevue Clean , a cleaning company in Bellevue, WA. “Proper maintenance by professionals can extend the lifespan of materials like hardwood floors, tiles, countertops, and bathroom fixtures by using the right cleaning methods and products. This, in turn, also maintains the value of your home!” Francis, owner of 321Maids.com , a cleaning service in Melbourne, FL, seconds this use of a professional cleaning service. “A professional cleaning service doesn’t just improve cleanliness — it helps protect your investment,” says Francis. “Regular deep cleans can extend the life of your furnishings, flooring, and fixtures, keeping your home in top condition and preventing costly repairs down the line.” 9) You’re moving and don’t want to deal with one more thing For those leaving their home for the next chapter in their lives, doing a deep clean is the last you want to do after packing the car. “ After moving out, a deep cleaning service helps restore the space to pristine condition, perfect for meeting landlord expectations or preparing for the next occupant,” shares Memo Ceballos, owner of Magic House Clean , a cleaning service in the Bay Area. “Professionals handle every detail, from baseboards to appliances so that you can focus on your next chapter stress-free.” 10) You’ve got your hands full with the kids When the kids are a handful, it gives you a great reason to hire a cleaning service. “For families with young kids, the mess can feel never-ending, and many parents tell us they’ve felt like they’re constantly falling behind,” says Theo from Bothell Cleaning , a cleaning service in Bothell, WA. Theo adds, “Toys scattered across the floor, sticky countertops, and laundry piling up can quickly turn into a source of daily stress. But once a regular cleaning schedule is in place, the entire dynamic shifts. The home feels calmer, routines run smoother, and parents feel more in control. It’s not just about cleanliness, it’s about creating a more peaceful environment for everyone.” 11) You’re preparing to stage your home for sale A clean home will help attract prospective buyers. “Hiring a cleaning service ensures your property is always show-ready, helping to attract buyers and tenants faster. Let us handle the details so you can focus on closing deals,” says Trisha Coffin of Sparkle and Shine , a cleaning service in Lincoln, NE. 12) Allergens are making you sneeze and sneeze If the dust mites are starting to get to you, but you don’t have time to do it yourself, that’s a good reason to hire a cleaning service. “Work, family, and life’s many demands can crowd out the time — and energy — needed to give your home the deep, healthy clean it deserves,” says Felix DuBose, owner of Pine & Soda , a commercial cleaning company in Seattle, WA. Felix adds, “A professional cleaning service removes hidden allergens and grime with commercial‑grade tools and eco‑friendly products, protecting both your investment and your well‑being while freeing up precious hours for what matters most.” 13) Something smells funky and you don’t know what it is or where it’s coming from Mystery smells are always no fun. If you’re tired of getting on your hands and knees, call a professional. “Hiring a cleaning company means saying farewell to those mystery smells you’ve been ignoring for way too long,” says Jennifer, owner and managing partner at Exceptional Home Clean . She adds, “Professional cleaners use top-quality products and techniques to eliminate odors at the source — not just mask them — giving your space a fresh, truly clean feel. Instead of spending hours scrubbing and guessing which product works best, let the experts handle it so you can breathe easy.” 14) Routine cleaning isn’t hacking it anymore Even the cleanest rooms need a deep cleaning every once in a while. “When grime creeps into grout lines, baseboards, and ceiling fan blades, quick wipe-downs no longer cut it and busy schedules push deep cleaning to the bottom of the to-do list,” shares Grayson Hogard of Futura Cleaning , a cleaning service for folks in Washington, Oregon, California, and Colorado. “A professional cleaning team arrives with the right equipment and a detailed checklist that reaches every corner, erasing stains, dust, and hidden allergens while protecting delicate finishes. The result is a healthier, brighter home, and evenings you can spend relaxing rather than scrubbing.” 15) You’re facing a cleaning problem that only professionals can tackle For anything potentially dangerous, it’s always a good call to bring in a professional. “When facing situations that go beyond everyday cleaning — like biohazards, rodent droppings, hoarding, or trauma scenes — Bio-One of Oceanside offers the expertise and care needed to restore your space safely,” says Doug, General Manager of Bio-One , a cleaning company in Oceanside, CA. 16) Stress is taking over A dirty space can cause additional stress, and if you’re already nearing your limit, call in a professional. “Life gets hectic and between work, friends, family, and everything else on your plate, that professional clean you know you should get is always moved down on the to-do list,” says Mopstar Cleaners , a home cleaning service in Phoenix, AZ. “A top-to-bottom, deep clean by Mopstar Cleaners doesn’t just transform how your home feels but also how you feel in it, all without the stress and exhaustion of doing it yourself.” For Dana Chequis of Ace of Maids Cleaning , a cleaning service in Salmon Arm, BC, coming home to a clean house is a gift. “Stress-free cleaning and coming home to a clean and fresh-smelling home is worth every penny. So much easier to have someone else do the work while I’m at work,” says Dana. To sum it up, hiring a cleaning service is like hitting an easy button for your life. “Your baseboards sparkle, your fridge no longer looks like a science experiment, and your weekends are yours again,” says Blake Hickman of SA Cleaning Service , a cleaning service in San Antonio, TX. “In today’s busy world, trading hours of scrubbing for a professionally cleaned home is not just convenient, it’s a smart investment in your most valuable resource: time.” 17) You need some time back If you’re running out of hours in the day, hiring a cleaning service can get you back the time you need. “Hiring a cleaning service isn’t just about having a tidy home — it’s about gaining back time, mental clarity, and a sense of control,” says Peter of Seattle Cleaning . “When life gets busy or your space starts to feel more chaotic than cozy, bringing in pros can make all the difference.” In today’s busy world, it’s hard to find the time to focus on cleaning. “Nowadays, most families require 2 parents to work to make ends meet. If they have children, their schedules are even more demanding, with school, activities, homework, and sporting events,” says Regine Farr of Cleanest By Farr , a cleaning service in Lincoln, Nebraska. “The last thing most families have on their priority list is to take the time to thoroughly clean and disinfect their homes. Even when selling their homes, people just do not have the time to get it cleaned up enough to get it on the market. In my years of cleaning, I cannot count how many times I have been told, ‘I don’t know what I would do without you and your cleaning service’” Brooke Lutes of Affordable Cleaning Services , a cleaning service for Northern Virginia, agrees that life can get in the way. “Life gets busy, and before you know it, the dust settles, the windows lose their shine, and the bathrooms get dirty. At Affordable Cleaning Services, we make it easy for you to reset—with a consistent team you choose, customized care, and that fresh, polished feeling your home deserves,” says Brooke. 18) You need some time with family For those with the funds, hiring a cleaning service can give you some much-needed time with your family. “Life gets busy, and cleaning often takes away precious moments you could spend relaxing, enjoying your family, or pursuing personal interests,” says April Prothero, founder of Going GreenHouse , a home cleaning service in Phoenix, Tempe, Mesa, and Scottsdale, AZ. “Professional house cleaners have specialized tools and experience to tackle dirt and grime efficiently. Hiring experts means your home looks good and feels cleaner without the stress and hassle of doing it yourself.” The team at Select Home Cleaning , a home cleaning service in Florida seconds this use of a cleaning service. “In today’s fast-paced world, maintaining a clean and healthy living space can easily fall by the wayside,” says Select Home Cleaning. “Hiring a cleaning service not only restores your home’s sparkle but also provides you with invaluable time to focus on what truly matters, whether it’s family, career, or personal well-being. A professional cleaning service ensures a consistently clean environment, contributing to a healthier and more enjoyable home.” In conclusion, sometimes you need a little help From hard-to-reach roof grime and overflowing gutters to delicate rugs and persistent allergens, keeping a home clean isn’t always a simple task, and it often requires more than just a quick vacuum or dusting. “Hiring a professional cleaning service makes keeping a spotless home effortless and stress-free,” says Wendy Montenegro and the team at Clean Splendid LLC , a cleaning service in Snohomish and King County, “Whether you want to renovate your space, tackle tough stains or prepare for a big move, cleaning experts offer customized solutions to suit your needs. It’s the perfect way to enjoy a clean and inviting home while saving time and energy.”  Whether you’re staging your home for sale, juggling a busy family life, or simply craving a fresh start, bringing in the experts can be the smartest investment you make for your space — and your peace of mind. After all, your home works hard for you — it’s time to return the favor.