More and more people are living in multigenerational homes.
Here are some features to look for in a home for everyone, according to experts.
More and more, Americans are finding themselves living inmultigenerational households.
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Some do it for financial reasons, while others are looking to care for aging relatives more easily.
Why a multigenerational home?
ThePew Research Centerdefines multigenerational households as homes with two or more generations of adults living together.
In some instances, there are skipped generations living together, which would include grandparents living with grandchildren.
And the need for caregiving isn’t just for elderly relatives.
Multigenerational living allows a grandparent or great-grandparent to provide childcare without the financial burden that comes with it.
AgentAlana Lindsayof Coldwell Banker Warburg points out that there are also cultural considerations at play.
It also comes with the changing demographics of the United States.
A lot more people are immigrating here from other countries where multigenerational families are the cultural norm.
The biggest challenge is finding a home with enough space while also being affordable, Palmer adds.
Toth advises buyers to consider what he calls multi-use spaces as well.
Multi-use spaces could be a spare bedroom or extra living room, he says.
Adaptable spaces can also ensure increased privacy throughout the home.
And don’t forget bathrooms.
There should be a proportionate number of bathrooms for the number of people.
From there, youll want to consider special features to accommodate aging parents and relatives.
Like any home, youll also want to consider location.
Palmer points out that aging relatives might prefer good proximity to hospitals and other health-related services, for example.
And keep in mind that a multigenerational home is often considered aforever home.
They need to think about tomorrow and not just what todays needs look like, Palmer says.
What will the family and situation look like in five years?
Multigenerational homes dont tend to move as often as a more traditional family does.
New builds specifically designed for multigenerational use could already have the features in place that youre looking for.
Say youve found a home you absolutely adore.
What else should you know before moving every family member in?
Some cities have laws dictating the ratio between occupants and bedrooms, for example.
Toth also cautions against additions such asaccessory dwelling unitsuntil youve done your research.
Kostiw adds that its wise to get these agreements in writing, even if that seems extreme.
Discuss challenges and set specific boundaries as a means to avoid ruining family relationships, she says.
