What is a Mother Daughter House?

If you're a homebuyer looking for a suburban property, you may have come across the term "mother daughter house." But what is that, exactly? 

A mother daughter house is simply a property that has been designed to accommodate multiple generations of a family. Typically, these homes have separate living spaces for the parents and the kids, as well as shared common areas. 

If this sounds like something that would be right for you, below we’ve compiled what you need to know about mother daughter homes.

What is a mother daughter house?

A mother daughter house is a common real estate term for a type of single family home that has two distinct living areas, each of which typically has its own kitchen. This allows a parent and sibling to share a house without being constantly in each other's way, giving them both the space and privacy that they need. 

Some mother daughter houses are constructed as two separate structures joined together by a shared foundational infrastructure, while others are designed as two areas of the same building. 

Regardless of their design, mother daughter houses offer families an ideal solution for multi-generational living, allowing mothers, fathers, daughters, sons, and grandchildren to live under one roof while still enjoying distinct spaces without feeling like multifamily living.

Pros and cons of having a mother daughter house

There are both pros and cons to having a mother-daughter house. On the one hand, having a parent or parents around can be incredibly convenient, especially when it comes to things like childcare. Similarly, as parents become elderly, sometimes children can be nearby as caregivers for the parents. Additionally, living close to your family has many emotional benefits, providing support and comfort during difficult times.

However, there are also some potential downsides to having a mother-daughter house. For one thing, living in close quarters may mean that you lack some degree of privacy. Plus, when dividing a house between two generations, each generation sacrifices some living space for the greater good of being together.

Overall though, the pros of living with your parents generally outweigh the cons for most people. Whether it's for convenience or support or the sharing of costs, a mother-daughter house can be a great choice for many families.

How to make a mother daughter house work for you

When two generations live together, it can be a great opportunity to bond and create lasting memories. But it is also important to set boundaries in order to avoid conflict. 

Before moving in, have a discussion about finances and decide who will be responsible for specific costs. It is also important to set ground rules about personal space and privacy. Once you have established these boundaries, you can enjoy all the benefits of living under one roof. 

From sharing meals and conversation to having someone to rely on in times of need, a mother-daughter house can be a wonderful place to call home.

Tips for living in a mother daughter

• Establish rules and guidelines for living together
• Set aside time each day for individual activities
• Respect each other's privacy
• Communicate openly and honestly
• Don't argue in front of others
• Make compromises when necessary

Common architecture styles for mother daughter houses

When it comes to architecture styles for mother daughter houses, there are several options to choose from. 

One common style is a duplex, which offers two separate living spaces side-by-side or one above the other. Another popular option is a carriage house, which typically includes two stories with the living space on the second story and a garage on the first. 

There are also many variations of these basic styles, such as Ranch houses, Cape Cods, and Colonial homes. Ultimately, the best architecture style for a mother daughter house will vary depending on the specific needs and preferences of the occupants. 

Are permits required for mother daughters?

There has been a trend in recent years of local municipalities allowing single family houses that are specifically designed to accommodate both adult children and their aging parents. 

Mother daughter homes are typically given special permits by local zoning boards, as the needs of large families are unique and may not necessarily follow a specific set of regulations for a property with a single family certificate of occupancy (C of O).

Depending on the town or city in which these houses are located, different types of permits may be required for these special spaces. Some requirements might include building code regulations, fire safety codes, or driveway regulations. 

Regardless of any requirements or conditions, though, it is clear that local permits are a common part of creating a compliant mother-daughter house.

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