The Backyard Advantage: Why a Garden Suite Outshines Condo Living for Adult Children

Financial Benefits

1. Cost Efficiency:

• Lower Purchase or Construction Costs: Building or converting a garden suite can often be less expensive than purchasing a condo, especially in urban or high-demand areas where real estate prices are sky-high. Materials can be sourced cost-effectively, and the construction can be tailored to essential needs without the frills that often inflate condo prices.
• Reduced Living Expenses: For adult children, living in a garden suite means they can save significantly on rent or mortgage payments. This financial relief is crucial in today’s economy where rent can consume a large portion of one's income. Moreover, utilities might be shared with the main house, further reducing costs.

2. Investment in Property Value:

• Increasing Property Value: Adding a garden suite can enhance the property value of your home. It's an investment in real estate that not only provides immediate benefits but also increases the resale value if you decide to sell in the future.

Family and Social Benefits

1. Proximity Without Invasiveness:

• Close Yet Private: One of the strongest arguments for a garden suite is the balance it offers between independence and support. Adult children can enjoy autonomy while still being close enough for family dinners, help with childcare, or emergency support. This setup fosters independence without the isolation that can come with living in a distant condo.

2. Strengthening Family Bonds:

• Shared Experiences: Living in close proximity allows for shared life experiences, from holiday celebrations to daily interactions, which can strengthen family bonds. It’s a setup that encourages family integration while respecting personal space.

3. Support System:

• Immediate Support: Whether it's career advice, help with a new business venture, or simply a shoulder to lean on during tough times, having family nearby can be invaluable. This support system is particularly beneficial in the early stages of an adult child's career or personal development.

Practical Considerations

• Flexibility for Future Use: Garden suites can serve multiple purposes over time. They can house aging parents, be rented out for additional income, or even be converted back for personal use or sale. This adaptability is a significant advantage over a fixed condo investment.  And with Bakgård Living all of our Garden Suites are built on a steel sub structure so the building can be moved or sold in the future if plans change.  It is a very flexible investment that doesn't need to be torn down and wasted in the future.
• Zoning and Legal Compliance: Before embarking on this journey, it’s crucial to navigate local zoning laws which might dictate size, placement, and even whether a garden suite is permissible. However, many regions are now encouraging these units as a solution to housing crises, making approvals more likely.  With Bakgård Living we take care of all permitting and installation of the suite for you.
• Design for Living: Unlike condos, garden suites can be custom-designed to fit the family's specific needs, whether it's a studio for an artist or extra space for a home business. This bespoke approach can cater to personal lifestyle choices in ways a generic condo unit cannot.  Plus you dont have the potential risk of loud or smelly neighbors on all sides of you.

Conclusion