The benefits of dual occupancy homes

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Self-contained living spaces adjacent to a main house are referred to by lots of different terms: dual occupancy homes granny flats, garden rooms, and most commonly, granny annexes. They are usually quick to build and provide a space that can be used as a solution for families with a variety of needs such as housing an elderly relative, teenagers or grown children with disabilities. 

Uses for dual occupancy homes 

Having a property with two living spaces is a great marketing opportunity and will appeal to a range of buyers. It isn’t just the elderly who use granny flats, first-time buyers can use them as a solution to rising housing and living costs. 

Annexes can also provide a practical solution for grown children with disabilities who can gain independence while still being close to parents. They can also work as guest suite or for the holiday rental market. 

You can also let out your annexe or use it as a holiday home, allowing you to have another stream of income.  

In Scotland, you need planning permission under the following circumstances:  

  • The structure is over 30m2 in size or takes up more than 50% of your garden area.  
  • It is erected within a conservation area or beside a listed building.  
  • It requires water and drainage for a kitchen or bathroom. 

Best annexes on the market 

Mr and Mrs Wilson built a one-bed apartment next to their four-bedroom detached house in 2012. The space offers independent living and is kitted out for wheelchair access with low light switches and a wide staircase to accommodate a stairlift. It features an entrance hall with WC, an open-plan living room and high-spec kitchen (with integrated appliances), and a spacious double bedroom that has a built-in wardrobe and an ensuite bathroom. The two-storey annex has its own driveway and (accessible from the living area) its own private garden. 

The property is now being sold by Gilson Gray for offers over £760,000.  

Gilson Gray said: “Carramar comes with a luxurious one bedroom two-bathroom self-contained apartment, ideal for independent living close to the family. A delightful private secure courtyard to the rear and off-street parking at the front.   

“The current owners built the house in 2012, using high-quality energy efficient materials giving it a five-star finish complete with low maintenance gardens to front and rear of the property. It is close to the beach, parks and trains to Edinburgh.”

For those looking to live in Dunfermline, this six-bedroom house with a granny annexe offers an idyllic setting amidst 1/4-acre gardens and grounds which back onto the woodlands of Townhill forest. 

If you’re looking for something smaller, this three-bedroom detached house with a granny flat on the outskirts of Kirkcudbright offers beautiful views down the Dee Estuary. 

The many purposes of granny flats make them an appealing property feature for many potential buyers so make sure you highlight the unique opportunity to buy your home