This week’s latest property listing in Booragoon (see Zoe’s preview) features a stunning, beautifully finished apartment-style granny flat with separate entry. So we thought it was the perfect time to share some interesting facts about the not-so-humble granny flat that you may not be aware of.

Granny flats (aka secondary or ancillary dwellings) are back in the spotlight and they’re nothing like the granny flat of old that used to be relegated to a rear corner of the backyard like a garden shed. Today’s granny flat is stylish, functional and a very desirable feature due to its many potential uses and the added capital value it delivers.

Here are 5 facts you may not know about the 21st century granny flat:

1. They are an extension of your home

Modern family living has changed. Many of us are operating businesses or working from home and many adult children are either living at home longer or returning so they can save to buy their first home rather than rent. Then there are the grandparents who want to be close to their family but free up some cash to enjoy a lock and leave lifestyle. Today’s granny flat is ideal for all those uses and then some.

2. You may be able to rent it out

In Perth the rules governing granny flats were relaxed a few years ago allowing them to be rented out for a secondary income as long as it received proper building and planning approval. Many Perth property owners have taken advantage of this opportunity to create a secondary source of income in their own backyard.

3. You don’t have to subdivide

There is no need to own a subdivisable block or go through the time and expense of subdividing. This means a granny flat can be built in as little as around 3 months with minimal cost and disruption.

4. You don’t need a big backyard

Many people are surprised to learn that a granny flat can be built on a block as small as 450sqm in Perth as long is it doesn’t exceed 70sqm on that block size (they can be bigger on larger lot sizes). There are even 2 and 3-bedroom designs available for the right lot size and requirements.

5. It can be designed to match your home

Gone are the days of the boring ‘flat-pack’ looking granny flat from the 1970s and 80s. Today your granny flat can be designed to complement your existing house, from the elevation to the facade and even the finishes inside.

As you can see, the not-so-humble granny flat has many applications and is definitely no longer just for granny!