What is a garden suite?

Garden suites, also commonly known as garage suites, carriage houses, backyard suites or laneway homes, are typically small fully serviced, single or two storey detached dwellings built in the back yards of single family homes.

What could I use it for?

Extra Space for the Family

Who wouldn’t benefit from increasing the livable area of their property? Whether you are considering a separate home for: a family member such as an elderly relative wishing to age in place but remain close to the family; a maturing son or daughter needing some independence; even visiting guests the garden suites can be tailored to meet your needs.

Additionally, a garden suite would be a comfortable dwelling for an employee of the family such as a nanny or a care giver, living on the property for ease of access.

Revenue Generation

As property prices remain strong in the capital region people are finding it increasingly difficult to get ahead and maintain a healthy work / life balance. A garden suite can offer an efficient way to generate more income as a rental property.

Alternatively, as your family matures and leaves the home a garden suite offers an opportunity to downsize while remaining on your property. The main house could then be used to generate income. A perfect scenario for seasonal travelers looking to get away for the winter.

Am I eligible?

Currently, within Greater Victoria, the municipalities of Victoria and Saanich permit the building of garden suites on single-family lots. The rules differ for each municipality. The links below provide regulations, design guidelines and other eligibility information:

Central Saanich

Colwood

Langford

Metchosin

North Saanich

Victoria

Will I need to deal with the municipality myself to determine eligibility and receive approvals?

No. If you engage Goodison Construction to build your garden suite, we will work with the municipality on your behalf throughout the application approval and building process.

Are the units totally independent?

Yes. The units will be detached from the main house, serviced with their own power and water supplies and metered separately.

What style options do I have?

We understand the importance of the secondary dwelling being a complementary structure to the primary home. Consequently, each of our five pre-designed garden suite options are offered in two styles, modern or traditional, and in two different external colour schemes to suit the main property.

All exterior and interior building materials, finishes and fixtures are of a high-quality and custom designed by a professional design team.

Meet Our Experts

How much do they cost?

Prices will vary depending on the size of the garden suite plus the style and interior options chosen. An accurate estimate can be supplied by forwarding on a completion of the building plan selections from the link below.

What would be the possible rental income?

Rental income will depend on the location of your property, the size of the dwelling and current market rates. You can get a sense of current rental rates by looking at rental accommodation sites

Would it increase the value of my property? Resale value.

In order to address this question, we sought the advice from a Real Estate Advisor with extensive knowledge and experience in the industry. Please see the perspective of Shelby Donald of Newport Realty below:

Each situation is unique, but increasing the living space will almost always add value to your property. In addition, a portion of the revenue earned on a garden suite can be used in calculating the mortgage amount a buyer may qualify for, thereby potentially increasing the popularity and value of your home.

Shelby Donald
Real Estate Advisor
Newport Realty
Direct: 250 812 0599
www.shelbydonald.com

How long will it take to complete?

The build of the garden suite itself will take approximately three to four months to complete. However additional time will be required for site preparation, including the excavation for, and installation of, the services to the unit. The duration for this work will vary from property to property depending on the size of the lot and accessibility for the machinery.

What warranty does Goodison Construction cover?

A garden suite constructed by Goodison Construction is considered to be a new home and is therefore covered by our new home warranty as detailed below:

2 years on interior finishes and materials
5 years on mechanical and electrical
10 years on the major structure of the building