2 farmhouses on the same property with a greenhouse and a garden in the countryside

Building a dual-living home allows you to tailor the design and features to your specific needs and preferences. Create a space for your loved ones to support each through all of life’s moments. Building a dual-living home can be the catalyst for traditions to flourish as your family and friends thrive in the safety and security of your custom space. Follow these steps to create a perfect living space for your group to thrive. 

Step 1: Planning and Design

  • Determine the desired size and layout of each living unit. Is it going to be one home or multiple? Can the windows be south facing for ample sunlight into the home? Is there a space for a barn or chicken coop?
  • Consider the needs and preferences of all residents, including accessibility requirements. Talk to each person to get an idea of their expectations and desires.  Keeping open communication through the process of building a dual-living home can ease the tension. 
  • Explore different design styles and floor plans to find the best fit for your family. 
  • Make sure to consider outdoor spaces such as patios, gardens and areas for potential animals. 
  • Consider utilities such as power, water, sewer or septic and electricity. Will the home have one meter and bill for the residents to split or will they be responsible for their own utility bills? There are many options to consider when building a dual-living home.

Step 2: Choosing a Location for building a dual-living home

  • Research zoning regulations and building codes in your desired area.
  • Consider factors such as proximity to schools, healthcare facilities, and transportation options.
  • Evaluate the natural features and amenities of the location.
  • Consider the weather and potential for natural disasters such as earthquakes, hurricanes or flooding. 

Step 3: Obtaining Permits and Approvals

  • Apply for necessary permits and approvals from local authorities. These can be expensive and time consuming so make sure to plan for ample time and funds for this step. Ensure you are very clear that you are building a dual-living home in your requests for these permits. 
  • Interview several architects and engineers to ensure compliance with building codes and regulations. Talk to other people or experts in the area who have experience with the process of  building a dual-living home. They may have good ideas, suggestions and referrals for you to consider. 

Step 4: Construction and Finishing

  • Select qualified contractors and builders for the construction process. If you have family or friends in this industry, it may be smarter to use a contractor you don’t have a personal relationship with. This can be a stressful and tense process; consider interviewing several professionals before choosing someone. 
  • Oversee the construction process to ensure quality and adherence to the design plans. Make sure to visit the site personally and without notice. You want to be sure your investment is handled with the utmost care and consideration. 
  • Choose finishes and materials that reflect your personal style and preferences. Each resident may have their own style and personality they want reflected, but when building a dual-living home, it’s important that the home has cohesion in the design and style for future marketability. If there are conflicts during this decision, consider offering a few options to choose from that have different designs and colors but all reflect the same style and aesthetic. You don’t want anyone to feel like they didn’t have a choice in the features of their own home. 

Building a dual-living home can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience for all residents. By following these steps and working with experienced professionals like us, you can create a beautiful and functional living space for your family to thrive in. They say home is where the heart is; with our guidance through building your dual living home, you can ensure it will be a space where many hearts can lean on each other through all the ups and downs of life.

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