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lisa.watt@compass.com
From grandparents moving into adult kids returning after college, more families now share one roof. The National Association of Realtors notes that multi-gen sales hit a record high in recent years. Rising housing costs, flexible remote work and a desire for closer care all fuel the trend. Could this living style fit your life? Use the tips below to weigh the pros and cons of different plans for hurdles and find a house that suits every age. Sharing space often means sharing bills. One mortgage, one set of utilities and pooled grocery runs lighten the load for each member. Day-to-day help comes built-in, too. Grandparents can watch young kids while parents work and teens can assist elders with tech or errands. The home also builds equity for the whole clan, not just one owner. More people under one roof need clear lines. Look for floor plans with a finished basement, a loft or a first-floor suite. Even a simple split-level layout can give each group a private wing. Add locks to bedroom doors, soundproof rugs and outdoor seating nooks so quiet time never feels scarce. Some cities limit the number of unrelated adults who can live together or require permits for basement kitchens. Before you fall in love with a property, call the zoning office. If adding a small accessory dwelling unit is a goal, consider asking about setback rules, height limits and sewer taps first. Agree on who pays which bills and how repairs will be handled well in advance of move-in day. Many families use an online spreadsheet to track shared costs, such as trash pickup, home insurance and landscaping. Setting a clear budget upfront helps avoid tension later and ensures the home remains in good condition. Install lever handles in wider doorways and slip-resistant flooring so that both toddlers and seniors can move with ease. A no-step entry and a first-floor bathroom can save expensive remodels later. Simple upgrades, such as smart lights, reduce fall risks and help aging relatives stay independent. Even close families hit rough patches. Create house rules for quiet hours, chore rotations and guest limits. Hold a brief monthly meeting to review what works well and what needs improvement. Open chats prevent small issues from escalating into big ones. A multi-generational home can deepen bonds, cut costs, and offer built-in support, yet it demands careful layout choices, clear financial plans and honest talks. Ready to explore homes with in-law suites, roomy basements or flexible floor plans? Contact our team today. We will match you with options that cater to every generation, maintaining harmony at the heart of your household.1. Count the Benefits
2. Map Out Privacy Zones
3. Check Local Rules
4. Plan the Money Talk Early
5. Design for All Abilities
6. Build a Conflict Plan
