The Rise of Multigenerational Living

By Mark Spain Real Estate

While some people may cringe at the thought of living with their in-laws, for 64 million Americans it’s a way of life! Typically, in America, housing has been designed on a universal scale with the single-family in mind. According to most recent data by Pew Research Center, compared to 12% during the 1980’s, nearly 20% of Americans are living in multigenerational housing. Mark Spain Real Estate has summarized the evolution of multigenerational living and its effect.

Growing Housing Trend

For thousands of years, keeping the family together was commonplace. It wasn’t until the Golden Age of advertising in the 1950s and ’60s did this trend decline. The idea of independence and freedom were what sold Generation X. This led to the mass building of three-bedroom, one bath ranches that are scattered across the southeast. There was no longer room for Grandma and Grandpa. 

Despite this, multigenerational living is making a comeback. Real estate agents and homebuilders are starting to take notice. Whether a buyer is seeking an “in-law” suite, housing for boomerang children, or private quarters for aging parents, the demand is tremendous. According to a survey conducted by John Burns Real Estate Consulting, as many as 41% of buyers are considering how to incorporate accommodations for aging parents or adult children. 

Shared Expenses

There are major benefits for multigenerational housing. For starters, lenders like to see a steady income. Contributions from retired parents can be included in total household income. That income makes it easier for adult children to qualify for a home loan. For some families, older parents simply may not have enough income to maintain independent lifestyles anymore and joining forces make living expenses more affordable.

Shared Responsibilities & Child Care

Additionally, without grandparents living under the same roof as their children and grandchildren, some millennials find it difficult to work because of the lack of access to affordable or available childcare. This is especially true for those living in larger cities where costs are rising. On average, the typical family spends about $1000 a month on childcare. These buyers can put that that money toward their mortgage payment or in an investment account. 

Furthermore, boomerang children, are another driving force in this multigenerational living trend. Even though these children left the nest and went out to establish a career, and possibly a family of their own, mounting student loan debt and lack of savings have forced them out of the home-buying market. The parents of these children, are now in search of options that provide enough space for children, grandchildren, as well as themselves. Each family member can contribute to expenses, which allows for more disposable income in the household or savings for the future. 

Strengthened Family Bonds

Beyond the financial benefits, there are many other reasons that families choose to live under the same roof. Culture plays a factor in multigenerational home buying. As our country grows, more people are bringing their values and customs along. In other areas around the world, it is a sign of respect to provide for aging parents. The younger generations view their grandparents as assets and will continue traditions. Similarly, many seniors desire closeness and time with their kids and grandkids that living together can provide. Many adult children also value the positive health outcomes that can accompany living with their elderly parents.

Multigenerational Home Buyer Solutions

Although many builders are responding to the demand for multigenerational housing by offering new floor plans and expanded options, many buyers are finding it difficult to find such a home due to supply or price range. 

A more affordable solution for multigenerational living is remodeling an existing space when new construction is not an option. Converting a garage or attic space, even building a small addition, can meet the demands of this type of buyer. With a little creativity and an open mind, there are unlimited possibilities when meeting the needs of today’s multigenerational buyer.

Interested in owning a multigenerational home? Contact us to get started! We’d love to help you find the home of your dreams. 

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Mark Spain Real Estate is grateful to serve all of Metro Atlanta and Athens in Georgia, Charlotte and Raleigh in North Carolina, Orlando and Tampa in Florida, and Nashville in Tennessee!