Why Keeping Your Adult Kids Close in a Granny Flat Makes Sense

The feelings of shame and laziness that were once associated with adults living at home have essentially disappeared for Millennials and Gen Z, who currently face an unstable job market, record-breaking property prices, flatlining wages, and sizeable HECS debts.

In fact, there is a growing trend in the number of young adults—sometimes referred to as ‘boomerang kids’—who return to live on their family’s property. Recent census data shows that around 43% of 20-24-year-olds were still residing in the family home as of 2021, up from 41.4% in 2016. The trend persists among older age groups as well, with 17% of 25-29-year-olds and 7% of 30-35-year-olds still living with their parents​(Australian Institute of Family Studies)​(Australian Bureau of Statistics). This increase is driven by a range of factors, including the high cost of housing and economic uncertainty.

For many parents who have enjoyed the freedom of an empty nest, the idea of their boisterous 20-something children returning to live under the same roof is not always appealing. No one looks forward to doubled laundry piles or constant noise. Is there a way to welcome your children back home without sacrificing your privacy? A granny flat may be the perfect solution.

Why a Granny Flat for Older Kids is a Win-Win

There are several advantages to keeping your adult children close in a granny flat:

• Financial Support without Strain
  The ‘Bank of Mum and Dad’ may not offer interest rates, but the pressure on parents to financially support their children is growing. Building a granny flat gives your child the chance to live rent-free and save more money for a home deposit, rather than needing loans for day-to-day living expenses.
• Privacy for Everyone
  A granny flat offers the perfect balance—your child is close by, but not inside your main home. There’s no worry about unexpected house guests, late-night noise, or mess in your living spaces. Granny flats provide independent kitchens, bathrooms, and even separate laundries.
• Improved Family Relationships
  When your adult children have their own living space, it helps maintain the parent-child relationship without creating tension. You won’t feel like a full-time cleaner, cook, or laundromat. APlus’s granny flat designs offer spacious, independent living, adaptable to small or challenging blocks like narrow, sloping land.
• Future Versatility
  Once your child moves out, the granny flat becomes a versatile asset. It can be used to house elderly relatives, avoiding the high costs of aged care, or customized to support accessibility needs with options like wheelchair ramps. Alternatively, it can serve as a home office, guest accommodation, or an income stream through renting.
• Increase Property Value
  Building a granny flat is a smart investment. According to CoreLogic, adding a granny flat can increase the value of a property by up to 30%. As well as offering potential rental income, this investment can also allow you to retire earlier, thanks to the passive income generated.

This approach to multi-generational living not only benefits your adult children but also offers long-term advantages for your family. Whether it’s about keeping your kids close while they gain independence or preparing for the future, a granny flat offers flexibility, privacy, and financial benefits.

Why Choose APlus Granny Flats?

Choosing the right builder is key when it comes to creating the ideal granny flat for your family. APlus Granny Flats are known for their expertise in custom designs, tailored to fit seamlessly with your existing home and property. Whether you have a narrow block, sloping land, or specific requirements like a wheelchair-accessible home, APlus’s experienced team will guide you through every step—from design to council approvals and construction. With a focus on quality, functionality, and future-proofing your investment, APlus ensures your granny flat is built to the highest standards while giving you the flexibility to adapt the space as your family’s needs change.