Multigenerational housing has become a more prevalent housing trend in the past several years. Research states that one in five homes is a multigenerational household. With grandparents and children living under the same roof, homeowners are often looking for houses that can accommodate the growing needs of such a diverse family. 

Our REALTORS® understand that you would love to purchase a new home that you, your parents and your children will love. Though each member of the family may have a different wish-list, finding the perfect home that suits your entire family is possible with an experienced REALTOR® by your side.

Finding a Home That Your Entire Family Will Love

Although imagining your family growing in one of the beautiful homes you tour is one of the most exciting parts of the home buying process, you'll need to consider a few important questions before you start the house search. The needs of a multigenerational family will evolve as the years go by which means that it is wise to narrow your search to houses that can accommodate these growing requirements. To determine your family's unique needs, consider the following questions:

• Will the older adults be living with you permanently or temporarily?
• Will any members of the home need special accommodations such as ramps or assistive equipment in bathrooms?
• Will all family members share communal and bathroom spaces or are separate rooms needed?
• Will extra space be needed as the children grow?

Be as honest as possible with your REALTOR® so that they can help you find a home that fits your needs. Our REALTORS® understand that the layout and functionality of your home needs to suit your family's lifestyle. Here are a few tips that we believe will help you during your home search:

1. Prepare for tomorrow, today.
   As your parents or in-laws age, there's a chance that they may need accommodations that not all homes have. To prepare for these possibilities, we suggest purchasing a home that already meets these requirements. For example, seek out homes that have a bedroom and full bathroom on the main floor so that stairs won't be an issue.
    
2. Prioritize privacy.
   A home can feel quite cozy at times when children and grandparents share your space. To cut down on some inconvenience and secure a little space for yourself, consider looking for homes that have a master suite or those which have bedrooms and full bathrooms on the side of the house opposite of the master bedroom.
    
3. Get creative with customization.
   Look for homes that have spaces that you can utilize in a variety of different ways. Lofts can become a great play or lounging area. An office with windows and closets can be converted into a bedroom. You can even turn a den, garage or sunroom into a room that specifically gives certain members of the family their own relaxing space apart from the communal areas.
   
   
4. Let all members of the family state their needs.
   Even if your heart is in the right place, you may not be aware of certain desires the rest of your family has. Make sure everyone living in the home has an equal voice in the home search.

The increase in multigenerational housing is a trend that our REALTORS® absolutely love. We cherish the time spent with our own families and want to help yours find the perfect home that you can fill with memories you'll treasure. For more help in your home search, contact us today.