Mother-In-Law Apartments Are Good for the Economy

NY Times writer Bernard explains that more families are choosing to live in the same house or on the same lot for a number of reasons including finances, health, and child rearing assistance.

"According to the American Planning Association, at least four states - California, Massachusetts, Vermont and Washington - have enacted laws encouraging or requiring changes to the zoning rules to permit the so-called accessory dwelling units, also called A.D.U.'s. Architects said that parts of Oregon, Colorado, Texas and Virginia had also become more accommodating. And last year in New York, then-Gov. David Paterson signed a law that will ultimately develop model planning and zoning guidelines for communities to create senior housing and granny flat accommodations."

"Advocates of in-law units say they also address the changing face of families and their economic circumstances. They can provide an extra income source, or allow elderly people to remain in their communities. They can also create a source of affordable housing, they say, at no cost to the government."

Thanks to Cathie Pagano