To Suite or Not to Suite?
More and more often I'm approached by families who are considering the idea of creating more living space to allow for siblings to reside with their senior family members on the same property. This can happen in a number of different ways. A detached garage can be converted easily. Attached garages often can be utilized for space. And of course, adding on is usually an option. This, to me, is a wonderful "no brainer." Families reuniting in times of economic uncertainty, where everyone seems to desire a way of life that's hard to afford, can be a beautiful solution.
And the benefits go beyond that. Think about built-in babysitting services. Who's taking care of the pets when you need to get away? No more "I'll be home for the holidays" — you're already there! But yes, inevitably as time goes on, for a period there will be some sacrifice and caretaking obligations to be fulfilled. But hey, think about all the sacrifices our parents made for us. And besides, that's why they flip for the contractor's bill, right?
So if you have the potential space, or if you're entertaining the idea of purchasing a property for this reason, I say make a sweet suite! A variance may be needed for such a project if the square foot allowance guidelines are exceeded, but from my experience, such variances are usually granted, as township councils recognize family value.