When searching for ways to add new living space to your home, you may come across the term “casita.” Meaning “little house” in Spanish, casitas are particularly popular throughout the Southern states, including Texas. Unless you’re familiar with them, though, you might be wondering what exactly a casita is and how it can benefit you and your family’s lives.
Also known as an in-law suite or in-law apartment, a casita is a separate living area that’s detached from the main home. Some are constructed in front of the home, while others are constructed behind the home. Most casitas have their own bathroom, bedroom or bedrooms, and a kitchen or kitchenette. Therefore, they are essentially a smaller, separate home.
Multi-Generational Families
As the elderly population rises, families want to be together and to save money on houses for elderly members. A casita allows your aging family member to maintain their independence and privacy while providing peace-of-mind because you are close by in case your help is needed. Many home buyers look for homes that could include room for their aging parents as a way to avoid assisted-living facilities.
Our clients chose to build a one bedroom, one bathroom casita beside their home for an aging-in-place home for his mother. This was the perfect solution for this family to watch after mom while allowing her to retain her independence.
Click to see more of this casita.
Guest Space
With a casita, guests will have a comfortable and private area to sleep when visiting your home. Maybe you have family members visiting for the holidays, or perhaps a close friend wants to stay with you for a few nights. Rather than forcing them to sleep on the pullout sofa, you can provide them with their own living space in a casita.
Rest and Relaxation Area
Once constructed, you can turn your casita into a dedicated rest and relaxation area. Some homeowners design their casita with a home theatre, allowing them to enjoy movies and sports games without disturbing other family members. Another idea is to turn your casita into a game room by adding a pool table and dartboard. Regardless, you can create the perfect rest and relaxation area by adding a casita to your home.
Increased Property Value
Adding a casita to your home can also increase its property value. According to a National Association of Realtors (NAR) survey cited by The Nest, one-third of Americans are willing to spend up to $3,000 more for a home if it features a casita. So, while building a casita isn’t free it’s a smart investment that can boost your home’s property value.
Rent It Out
It’s not uncommon for homeowners to invest in a casita so that they can rent it out. With the rise of AirBNB, for example, many homeowners now rent out their casita as a supplemental form of income. Combined with increased property value, this is just one more reason why adding a casita to your home is a smart financial investment.
This casita was a custom build for the father of the property owner. With plenty of land and grandchildren to boot, what better idea than to retire and live nearby?
Storage Space
Finally, a casita can provide you and your family with additional storage space. Instead of piling your belongings in a garage or spare bedroom or your home, you can store them in a casita. Even a small casita will add valuable storage space that can help keep your main home clean and clutter free.
If you are thinking about building an energy-efficient casita or adding onto your current home, please contact us for a consultation.