How to get yourself the perfect multi generational home

The idea of people living in a multi generational home is becoming increasingly popular in the United States. The main reason is that people have realized that such type of housing offers affordability, practicality, and most importantly, precious family time. It’s no wonder that one out of every five Americans now lives in such harmonious multigenerational setups. Interestingly, there has been a 30% surge since 2007. Today, many generations live or desire to live in multigenerational homes. 

What is a multi generational home?

These property types house at least two adult generations. The scenario could be grandparents living in multi generational homes with their children and grandchildren, parents living with adult children, or even four generations cohabiting. The best part about such houses is that each generation enjoys separate space and privacy. It’s often facilitated by distinct living areas, kitchens, and entrances.

Why do people opt for multiple generation houses?

Multigenerational homes are designed to promote family unity and togetherness while addressing the practical needs of modern-day living. They offer a flexible and adaptable housing solution that caters to the evolving dynamics of family life.

These multi-family homes, often referred to as multi-gen homes or intergenerational homes, cater to the diverse needs of multiple generations under one roof. Here are some of the common reasons why people choose to buy such homes.

Aging parents

As parents age, some families prefer to have their adult children live with them for various reasons. This may include companionship, caregiving, and financial support. Multigenerational homes provide the necessary space and amenities to ensure comfort and convenience for aging parents. And, their children. 

Temporary housing for adult children

In today’s economic landscape, it’s not uncommon to see adults live together. For instance, adult children who face transitional periods such as moving back home after completing college or going through a divorce. Multigenerational homes offer the flexibility to accommodate these temporary living arrangements without compromising comfort or privacy.

Interesting read: Enjoying the empty nester life

Live-in nanny arrangement for young children

Single families with young children often benefit from having a live-in nanny or au pair to assist with childcare responsibilities. Multigenerational homes provide the extra space needed for live-in help while maintaining separate living quarters for privacy and autonomy.

Support for family members with special needs

Families with members who have special needs may require specific accommodations and support services. Multigenerational homes make it easier for these family members to receive the care and assistance they need while remaining close to their loved ones.

Extended stay options for relatives and friends

Whether it’s for holiday gatherings, special occasions, or simply extended visits, multigenerational homes offer the space and amenities to host relatives and friends comfortably. Having designated common areas and guest rooms ensures that both hosts and guests have privacy and convenience.

What are the benefits of living in a multigenerational home?

Multigenerational living offers numerous advantages. For instance, purchasing a multigenerational home provides practicality, quality family time, increased safety, shared responsibilities, and privacy. Let’s explore all of these in a little more detail.

Economic efficiency

Sharing expenses and tasks becomes easier in a multigenerational home. For example, utility and home insurance costs can be divided. You may also be able to consolidate multiple mortgage loans into one. This setup saves considerable money. It also eliminates the need and expense to travel to see your loved ones. Plus, it reduces childcare expenses by having your family members assist with childcare.

Enhanced safety

These homes, with multigenerational households, provide an alternative to assisted living for aging parents. More importantly, they offer you peace of mind when you know they’re nearby. In emergencies, such as falls or injuries, having family members nearby ensures swift assistance.

Strengthening of family bonds

Living together fosters daily interaction among relatives. Without a doubt, it creates lasting memories and closer relationships. Research suggests that such proximity can enhance resilience in children and longevity in grandparents. For an adult child moving back in, it offers opportunities for mutual understanding as adults.

What to consider when creating the perfect floor plan?

Multi-generational home floor plans commonly incorporate elements such as multiple living areas, multiple kitchens, and distinct entrances to enhance privacy among family members.

Additionally, spacious common areas such as great rooms, expansive kitchens, and outdoor living spaces are frequently integrated into these floor plans. To ensure accessibility for senior family members, universal design standards are often implemented. 

Here are some tips for creating your ideal multigenerational home:

• Opt for new construction if possible. It presents advantages in terms of customization and cost-effectiveness compared to renovating an existing home.
• Design common spaces such as kitchens or living rooms according to your family’s preferences and needs. You can personalize any private space such as the master bedroom and bathroom the way you want it.
• Decide whether your in-laws or aging parents would prefer living within the main house or independently in a separate building on the same property. You may consider building a mother-in-law suite.
• Anticipate future accessibility needs by incorporating features that accommodate aging family members. This ensures everyone can navigate the home comfortably.
• Prioritize privacy. Ensure each family member has their own space while facilitating shared time together. Incorporate features such as extra-insulated walls that minimize noise and stress and enhance overall comfort. Keep in mind that inadequate space or an inefficient house layout can lead to stress.
• Utilize outdoor areas for extended living space, whether it’s for relaxation, recreation, or dining.

Last thoughts

Multigenerational homes are becoming increasingly popular in America as they offer space for multigeneration families to live together. These houses promote practicality, affordability, and increased bonding time. The homes typically feature a shared living area for the entire family, alongside separate living spaces, bathrooms, and often separate kitchens.

Written by Ramona Sinha. January 3, 2025

Ramona is the Senior Content Writer for Kukun. This experienced blogger uses simple and succinct words to decipher the complex phenomenon called life. She has written articles covering a broad range of topics, such as real estate, lending and mortgage, finance, business, taxation, home designs, home improvement projects, decor concepts, and more. An avid traveler, she’s a digital nomad at heart and an animal lover from the depth of her soul.