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Mother in Law Suite Homes: Multigenerational Living in NC
For multigenerational living in North Carolina, many families are turning to the concept of a mother in law suite home. These spaces can be created from within the house, an addition, or a stand-alone unit. Still, the goal is the same: allow an elderly parent to maintain a level of independence while living close to family. And as an added bonus, mother in law suites can also serve as an Airbnb, home office, or guest suite for visitors.
What is a Mother in Law Suite?
Mother in law suites, whether integrated into a larger home or a standalone dwelling unit, feature all the amenities of a separate house, including a sleeping/living space, kitchen or kitchenette, and bathroom. Some are similar to a studio apartment, one large area that includes both the living, sleeping, and kitchen areas. Others have a private bedroom separated from the rest of the suite.
The space size will dictate some design choices, so where there is generous square footage, you may find a full-size kitchen with lots of prep and storage space. Smaller spaces may dictate a kitchenette with a fridge, sink, oven (or toaster oven), microwave, and cooktop (or hot plate).
Mother in law suites created from an existing basement may have a walk-out area onto a porch or deck, along with a private entrance.
What Types of In Law Suite Homes Are Common?
Thankfully we have a lot of homes with mother in law suites already set up in the Raleigh-Durham area. Here are the three most common options if you're wondering how to configure your home to accommodate an in-law suite.
1 - At its simplest, a first-floor bedroom and private bath can be considered an in-law suite. In fact, many homes market this scenario as designed for multigenerational living. For more privacy, a separate wing of the house (previous children’s wing perhaps) can be reimagined to fit the needs of an older parent(s).
2 - A new addition attached to the main house is a second option. In this scenario, there is good separation and privacy but still a direct connection to the main house. There may also be a private entrance from the outside to the suite.
3 - A third option is a separate unit detached from the main house but located on the property. These can be as small as a tiny home or as large as your property can accommodate. Sometimes called “granny flats,” there is a new trend called “granny pods,” which incorporate some innovative tech features for monitoring inhabitants remotely.
Why Own a Mother in-law Suite Home?
In Hawaii, in-law suites are known as “ohana” (family) units, and indeed, the main purpose of these dwellings is to accommodate the family’s needs.
These in-law suites were initially designed to accommodate elderly or disabled relatives, but they can also be used for young adult children saving for their own homes.
They can act as both a short- or long-term solution to allowing multigenerational families to occupy the same space while each family maintains a degree of privacy.
In-law suites often add to property value in both the additional square footage created and the utility of the space.
The flexibility inherent in these suites is also a benefit. It may start off in the family as an office, man cave, or she shed and then later become a place for an older parent. Some are rentals, either long-term or an Airbnb.
Must-Have Considerations for Mother in Law Suite Homes
If you think an in-law suite will work for your family, here are some factors to consider as you plan.
Balancing privacy with access
Think of access to the main house and the outside world. Within the family, you may need to set guidelines for moving back and forth between the main house and the in-law unit.
Number of people living in the space
If you're unsure exactly how you will utilize the space - aging parents, adult children, rental - design to give yourself the maximum flexibility
HOA or regional restrictions
Your HOA may have restrictions either for the size of an in-law suite or whether you can rent the space at all, and if so, for how long. In addition, there may be zoning restrictions at the city or county level that you need to consider.
Many types of in-law suites are considered Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU). There are often restrictions on these units, so check your city guidelines.
Mother in Law Suite Homes for Sale in the Triangle
Are you looking for a property that is a mother in law suite home in Raleigh, Durham or Chapel Hill?
The North Carolina Triangle area is very popular with older adults and retirees. An in-law suite is an excellent option for multigenerational families who want to live close to each other.
We’re happy to help you with your search for the right property. View the listings below or contact us today and let’s get started.
Homes for Sale with In Law Suites
Nestled in the heart of the historic and picturesque town of Broadway, known for its tranquility and small town charm, sits this delightful farmhouse, offering a serene r...
- 4 Beds
- 2 Baths
- 10015296 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Calling all investors! This is a rare opportunity to own a fully leased income-generating property in the thriving suburb of Garner, NC, just minutes from Raleigh. This s...
- 4 Beds
- 3 Baths
- 10046987 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Commercial Suite in Prime North Raleigh Location Location: North Raleigh, close to I540, restaurants, banks, and retail establishments. Features: Ground-level suite. Fron...
- 10050318 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
PRICE REDUCED!! Beautiful corner brick home with .40 acres of land with no HOA and no restrictions. 2740 SF with potential to expand the heated area if some of the baseme...
- 4 Beds
- 3 Baths
- 10041523 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Rare opportunity to own an enchanting ranch with a beautiful guest house, all on one lush acre. This home offers the rural setting in the Stagecoach subdivision so many l...
- 3 Beds
- 3 Baths
- 10047567 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Introducing your new home, nestled right on the green of Lake Course in Carolina Trace. With Parcel 77 included, you'll enjoy a total of 1.33 acres. Inside and out, space...
- 6 Beds
- 6 Baths
- 10032947 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Nestled on over 2 acres of serene countryside, this unique property offers the ultimate in quiet country living! The main house features a huge wrap-around front porch, p...
- 3 Beds
- 4 Baths
- 10045061 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Welcome to this charming brick ranch home, a perfect blend of comfort and style in a peaceful neighborhood. This home offers plenty of space for everyday living. The hear...
- 4 Beds
- 3 Baths
- 10050273 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Well maintained original owner 3BR 1 Bath Main floor of home (you live here) 1 BR 1 Bath Basement Apartment/ separate entrance, Large rooms ( Rent it out!) and studio...
- 5 Beds
- 3 Baths
- 10037294 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Beautiful newly constructed home offers detached ADU apartment over one car garage. Home is conveniently located in central Durham; you are minutes away from downtown Dur...
- 3 Beds
- 3 Baths
- 10046267 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
*Price improvement! Sellers are now offering seller financing or bank buy down to a 6% interest rate for qualified buyers!* Come check out this absolutely stunning 3 bedr...
- 3 Beds
- 3 Baths
- 10048703 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Ready to have that perfect, multi-generational home on over 1.5 acres in Garner NC! 5 min. drive to White Oak, and you can walk to downtown Garner. 2 efficiency apartmen...
- 4 Beds
- 4 Baths
- 10051447 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
You'll love this gorgeous North Raleigh 3 BR home featuring an additional permitted short-term rental unit generating an impressive $20K+ annually! Offset your expenses w...
- 3 Beds
- 3 Baths
- 10050719 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
$12.000 BUILDER INCENTIVE! ''choose as you wish'' towards Closing cost, refrig, washer/dryer etc...) Experience the epitome of Luxury Condo Living in our exquisite condom...
- 3 Beds
- 3 Baths
- 10005754 MLS
- Two Bldg.
- ACTIVE Status
Back on the market through NO fault of the sellers!! Welcome to Oasis Retreat in Raleigh's Will O Dean neighborhood, a lakeside sanctuary surrounded by mature landscapin...
- 3 Beds
- 3 Baths
- 10030090 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Welcome to your dream home on a large, private wooded lot in the desirable Deer Chase neighborhood of Wake Forest! Offering a blend of modern finishes and timeless charm,...
- 4 Beds
- 4 Baths
- 10051635 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Welcome to 1602 Delaware Avenue nestled along a tree lined street deep in the heart of the highly sought after Westover/Watts-Hillandale area. Inside this incredible fres...
- 3 Beds
- 2 Baths
- 10033299 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Updated stunner with a solid mid-century build! Minutes to all things Chapel Hill and a stone's throw to UNC Campus and downtown. This hard-to-find brick ranch has a full...
- 5 Beds
- 3 Baths
- 10047165 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
This is it! You can choose a new home, or you can choose better than new! LAKEFRONT, Impeccably maintained and thoughtfully improved, 2223 Grove Hill offers high-end fi...
- 4 Beds
- 3 Baths
- 10050780 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
MULTI-GENERATIONAL Dream Home with large eat-in kitchen and expansive island, perfect for entertaining, as well as enjoyable family meals. Impressive double-door entry t...
- 4 Beds
- 4 Baths
- 10016978 MLS
- Lennar Bldg.
- ACTIVE Status
Spectacular 12th Floor Unit at popular Quorum! This home offers Tall Windows, which flood the spacious Open Floor Plan with Natural Light and provide stunning views of Do...
- 2 Beds
- 3 Baths
- 10036259 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Spacious 5 bedroom, 3.5 bath home in Raleigh, perfect for those seeking room to grow. Features include a full basement with a second kitchen, ideal for in-law or guest su...
- 5 Beds
- 4 Baths
- 10049480 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Welcome to 5425 and 5423 Live Oak Trail located within Forest Trail Estates. 5425 is a 5br/4ba home that has been brought to life with an extensive remodel in '23-'24. 54...
- 7 Beds
- 6 Baths
- 10032328 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Privacy at the most in this secluded amazing compound property located over on Blueberry Hill nestled in the forest offering 2 acres of a private retreat. Main house has ...
- 3 Beds
- 6 Baths
- 10046754 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Private enclave encompasses stunning custom home sited on almost 2 acres of privacy w/easy access to all things Chapel Hill-Features 4 BR, 3.5 bath-Laundry on both levels...
- 4 Beds
- 4 Baths
- 10013102 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Luxury living-Out of this world but not out of the way Efficient GEO THERMAL heat-Live large or rent lower level w/multiple options for use w/private 3 BRs +2 baths+2nd f...
- 4 Beds
- 4 Baths
- 10021516 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Own a unique part of Downtown Wendell. This property fronts 3 separate roads: Wendell Blvd, Marshburn Rd, and Academy St. It has a separate address for each building (242...
- 3 Beds
- 3 Baths
- 10030631 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Stunning custom reimagination of a 1920 mill house by renowned local builder, Charles Woods. The owner spared no expense creating the home of her dreams in 2023. Lightly ...
- 2 Beds
- 2 Baths
- 10049788 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Gracious Golf Course Home on the 5th Fairway with private pool Welcome to this Stunner Built for Entertaining and seamless Indoor/Outdoor living. 5-bedroom, 5-bathroo...
- 5 Beds
- 5 Baths
- 10048048 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
ONLY 3 UNITS REMAINING - This luxurious, 4-story, sleek modern townhome by Homes By Dickerson is move-in ready and features rooftop terrace w/ wet bar, elevator, courtyar...
- 4 Beds
- 4 Baths
- 10009511 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
ONLY 3 UNITS REMAINING - This luxurious, 4-story, sleek modern townhome INTERIOR END UNIT by Homes By Dickerson is move-in ready and features rooftop terrace w/ wet bar, ...
- 4 Beds
- 4 Baths
- 10009510 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
ONLY 3 UNITS REMAINING - This luxurious, 4-story, sleek modern townhome END UNIT by Homes By Dickerson is move-in ready and features rooftop terrace w/ wet bar, elevator,...
- 4 Beds
- 4 Baths
- 10009513 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Toll Brothers build! Come see this beautiful, modern home, that is only 6 years old with only 1 owner - shows like new! This home is the perfect combination of locat...
- 6 Beds
- 6 Baths
- 10014169 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
A stunning 7-acre horse farm nestled in Fuquay Varina. This property showcases a delightful 4-bedroom, 4-bathroom home from 1949, spanning over 3,000 square feet, along w...
- 4 Beds
- 4 Baths
- 10049104 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Welcome to your serene sanctuary at 1303 Dawson Road, where nature's beauty meets modern living. Imagine starting your day with a peaceful sunrise, followed by a leisurel...
- 3 Beds
- 3 Baths
- 10050450 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Secluded Raleigh location featuring an outstanding Estate nestled on over 5 acre of private setting. Property includes a separate In-Law suite with elevator, 2 bedrooms, ...
- 3 Beds
- 6 Baths
- 10040925 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
This energy efficient Eco-Select certified home includes a 2-car detached garage that's not just for parking vehicles, above lies a 762 square foot luxurious studio apart...
- 4 Beds
- 4 Baths
- 10024133 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Nestled on 1.59 acres of privacy, this Country Estate is perfectly positioned on rolling acreage at Cedar Grove Mountain just minutes from Chapel Hill/Carrboro and Pittsb...
- 4 Beds
- 7 Baths
- 10049408 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Nestled on 3.9 acres of privacy this Estate, home is perfectly positioned on rolling acreage at Lystra Estates, the location is perfect, just minutes to Downtown Chapel H...
- 4 Beds
- 5 Baths
- 10051116 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Price reduced!! Quintessential Southern Charm! Rare five bedroom home with a detached three car garage with carriage house above. This exceptionally built home was const...
- 5 Beds
- 5 Baths
- 10016750 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Come explore this turnkey AirBnB in downtown Raleigh with a gorgeous updated and renovated basement with its own fenced in back yard and separate entrance. Currently rent...
- 6 Beds
- 4 Baths
- 10029663 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Luxurious thoughtfully crafted custom multi-generational modern farmhouse designed home that lives like a ranch because it has an elevator. The main floor presents an...
- 5 Beds
- 6 Baths
- 10046794 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
.9 Acres of redevelopment opportunity with road frontage to Western Boulevard and Chaney Road. Currently home to three fully occupied income-producing triplexes (9 Units ...
- 10 Beds
- 9 Baths
- 10030668 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
This exquisite custom-built home, with 5409 sq foot of total living space between the main home and detached structure, HAS IT ALL! Enjoy luxury living in this unique hom...
- 6 Beds
- 6 Baths
- 10046846 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
$50,000 Price Improvement! Now is your chance to discover the Ultimate Multi-Generational Retreat—Tailored for Luxurious Living!** Located in the prestigious Seaforth Lan...
- 4 Beds
- 5 Baths
- 10042990 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
This stunning multi-generational home is nestled on a 3-acre wooded lot on a no-outlet street in Chapel Hill. Two homes in one with superior quality and meticulous crafts...
- 4 Beds
- 3 Baths
- 2539290 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
This stunning multi-generational home is nestled on a 3-acre wooded lot on a no-outlet street in Chapel Hill. Two homes in one with superior quality and meticulous crafts...
- 4 Beds
- 3 Baths
- 2539628 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Subtly sophisticated contemporary architecture blends with beautifully executed formal interior woodwork to bring the best of two design vocabularies to this charming lig...
- 3 Beds
- 3 Baths
- 10006357 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Welcome to your dream retreat! Nestled in the picturesque landscape, this magnificent estate offers a blend of luxury, comfort and privacy. Spread across 16 + lush acres...
- 5 Beds
- 5 Baths
- 10036873 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Luxury Custom Collection built by ''Fran Legacy''. Experience luxury at its finest with this impeccable custom modern-farmhouse in Northwest Raleigh. This extravagant hom...
- 4 Beds
- 5 Baths
- 10035850 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Welcome to luxurious country living! You will never want to leave! This property has it all! A private, gated entry and gravel drive will escort you through the woods and...
- 5 Beds
- 6 Baths
- 10043236 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Escape to your own private oasis nestled at the base of Bass Mountain on an expansive 82+ acre property. This dream property isn't just a home, it's a multigenerational h...
- 8 Beds
- 7 Baths
- 10043643 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
The classically elegant mid-century executive home on a beautifully landscaped, secluded .91-acre cul-de-sac homesite in sought-after Forest Hills neighborhood is an ente...
- 6 Beds
- 9 Baths
- 10050005 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
New ICG Homes Plan and this one is Better Than Complete! This Showplace features a guest suite with private den on main level, along with a commanding primary suite, a ...
- 6 Beds
- 7 Baths
- 10041808 MLS
- ICG Homes LLC Bldg.
- ACTIVE Status
Imagine living with 360° elevated dramatic scenic views of farmland, gardens and art. Fondly calling their nest 'Birdland' (an amazing array of feathered friends also cal...
- 3 Beds
- 4 Baths
- 10037407 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
The historic and treasured Celebrity Dairy Inn and Goat Farm. With nearly 30 acres and 17 good useable buildings, Celebrity has been a star in Chatham County's crown for ...
- 10026784 MLS
- Celebrity Dairy Inn and Goat Farm Bldg.
- ACTIVE Status
The historic and treasured Celebrity Dairy Inn with 29 acres. Celebrity has been a star in Chatham County's crown for over a generation. Included: 5500 sq. ft. Greek Revi...
- 13 Beds
- 12 Baths
- 10028238 MLS
- Celebrity Dairy Inn Bldg.
- ACTIVE Status
Welcome to this extraordinary custom home in the highly sought-after Colvard Farms community in Durham, NC. This exceptional property is one of the first resales availabl...
- 5 Beds
- 6 Baths
- 10034787 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Presenting an exciting student-housing investment opportunity located in a bullseye location in Raleigh, North Carolina - one of the hottest markets in the country. Loca...
- 10051422 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Escape to this Perfect Private Southern Lifestyle Property to Ride Horses, Farm, Fish, or Just Relax with No Restrictions and 2 Dwellings! The Charming 3 Bedroom Main ...
- 4 Beds
- 7 Baths
- 10026108 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
It's here, at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac, you immediately know you're someplace special. This beautiful, spacious estate has an extraordinary setting with nearly two a...
- 5 Beds
- 10 Baths
- 10037826 MLS
- Douglas Perry Bldg.
- ACTIVE Status
Welcome to La Maison, the epitome of luxury living in the heart of walkable Chapel Hill. Walk to UNC sports, restaurants, theaters. In the BEST school district! Enjoy tr...
- 4 Beds
- 5 Baths
- 10025090 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Welcome to 131 Winsome Lane! This exquisite farmhouse is a true treasure nestled on 34 acres in the highly sought-after Chapel Hill schools district. The original part of...
- 4 Beds
- 6 Baths
- 2537987 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Welcome to Cavallino Ranch, where you'll build a magnificent main house ready to be constructed alongside the existing English-style barn/luxury apartment. It's nestled o...
- 6 Beds
- 5 Baths
- 10005039 MLS
- Future Main Dwelling Bldg.
- ACTIVE Status
Masterpiece behind the gates of the exclusive Governors Club. Massive Estate located in the upscale mountaintop Highland Pond neighborhood. Private driveway leading down ...
- 4 Beds
- 9 Baths
- 10034565 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Welcome to 323 S. Moore Street, a remarkable investment opportunity located in Clayton, North Carolina. This mixed-use property is situated on a prime piece of real estat...
- 3 Beds
- 3 Baths
- 10047822 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Listings provided courtesy of Triangle MLS, Inc. of NC, Internet Data Exchange Database. Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. © 2024 Triangle MLS, Inc. of North Carolina. Data last updated .