Multi-Generational Homes

Written By Megan Manly

Multi-generational living has quadrupled over the last 4 decades, and according to Pew Research Center, 59.7 million live in multi-generational homes in the U.S. This includes parents living with their adult children, adult children moving back home, and grandparents residing in the property to help with their grandkids. The financial benefits are attractive to many. As the Baby Boomer generation ages and home prices increase, making it more difficult for those early in their careers to purchase, I predict multi-generational living will become even more prevalent. In fact, one quarter of all adults ages 25-34 live in a multi-generational situation. *

In Nashville, many achieve this by building a DADU behind their house. DADU stands for Detached Accessory Dwelling Unit. Due to urban neighborhood zoning and setbacks, most of these are studios or one bedroom apartments either built over a garage or as a standalone guest house. Not only do these create a separate space for a family member, they also add significant value to a home. Another advantage to a DADU is that if family members eventually move out, they can be used as income producing properties on platforms like AirBnB and VRBO.

See below for guidelines regarding DADU eligibility:

  • The lot area of parcel must comply with the minimum lot area for a parcel's zoning.

  • The parcel must be within the Detached Accessory Dwelling Unit overlay if the property is zoned RS, Residential-Single Family Only

  • If the parcel is zoned R or RM then it must meet one of the following: be located on an alley, be within a historic overlay, be a lot of at least 15,000 square feet, and be within the Urban Design Overlay (UDO) with development standards for a DADU. ** Visit https://www.nashville.gov/departments/codes/construction-and-permits/-permits-central/detached-accessory-dwelling-unit for more info on zoning site restrictions.

Interested in finding a home with a DADU or one that is DADU-eligible? Contact me today!

*Info provided by Pew Research Center.

**Info provided by Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County.

Megan Manly