In-laws are often the punchline of many jokes, the comic sidekicks in television sitcoms and portrayed as overbearing towards their family members.
In reality, more and more in-law’s are moving in with family. Whether it be for financial, health or convenience reasons this growing demographic is changing the landscape of how homes are designed. Here are a sample of Cape Cod homes on the market, all with in-law apartments.
According to U.S. Census Bureau data, more than 3.6 million parents lived with their adult children in 2007, a 67 percent increase since 2000. By 2012, nearly 18% of the population lived in multigenerational homes – double that of 1980. The Wall Street Journal even called in-law apartments the “hottest home amenity.” All these facts point to the growing popularity of in-law apartments and their importance in home sales.
Cape Cod homes with in-law apartments
42 Cedar Land Rd, Orleans
A mile from Nauset Beach and set back from the road, a long driveway and acre of greenery give an estate feeling. Green lawns, gardens, decks, firepit, hot tub and screened porch make this property a summer oasis for relaxation and summer fun. Inside there is space for many with 2900 sq. ft. of living space and 4 bedrooms, 3 full baths including a separate in-law apartment with an outside entrance.
10 David Street, Osterville
Fully renovated in 2012, this 3000 sq. ft. 5BR, 3.5BA Cape with attached 1BR, 1BA legal In-Law apartment has 2 kitchens with granite counter tops, high end cabinetry, finishes and appliances, 2 fireplaces, 2 family rooms and 2 laundry areas.
351 Hollidge Hill Lane, Marstons Mills 
With frontage and views on two of the most beautiful crystal clear ponds on Cape Cod, this spacious property will delight! The finished walkout lower level offers private guest and in-law space.
7 Ellerslie Rd, Orleans
Gracious, expansive Cape with deeded beach rights to sandy shoreline on Little Pleasant Bay. An ingeniously designed in-law apartment –with two private entrances and connected to the main house via an internal corridor — offers numerous living options for elders, guests, family or renters. Its post-& beamed central living space hosts a full kitchen/living/dining area with loft above; adjoining is a bedroom and full bath.
50 Barnabas Rd, Falmouth
This Nantucket Colonial style home located in Saconesset Hills is spacious with 4 floors of living space; 4 bedrooms and 3.5 baths. The property is set on a knoll with mature landscaping, and a detached 2 car garage. The lower level has a private bedroom suite with a separate entrance and plenty of daylight.