Multigenerational Homes Are Growing in Popularity in the US and Southwest Florida
For many families, living under one roof with parents, adult children or grandparents is becoming increasingly attractive. Rising housing costs, an aging population and the desire to keep families close are all contributing to the trend.
But multigenerational living doesn’t necessarily mean everyone sharing the same kitchen and living room. Today’s buyers are often looking for privacy as well as togetherness.
A multigenerational home might include an in-law suite, second primary bedroom, separate entrance, second living area, kitchenette, guest apartment or even a duplex with two completely separate living spaces.
Don’t Search Only for “Multigenerational”
One of the biggest mistakes buyers can make is searching only for homes advertised as “multigenerational.”
Consider search terms such as:
- In-law or mother-in-law suite
- Guest suite or guest house
- Separate entrance
- Second living area
- Second kitchen or kitchenette
- Dual living
- Next-generation home
- Two primary suites
A home that isn’t marketed specifically as multigenerational may still have an ideal layout for your family.
What If You Can’t Find the Right Home? Don’t necessarily give up on the neighborhood you want.
Another option is to purchase a home with enough land and development potential to add onto the existing house.
For example, a family might purchase a home on a larger lot and eventually add a bedroom and bathroom, private living area, in-law suite or other space for another generation.
This strategy allows buyers to find a home in the location they prefer and potentially create a floor plan specifically suited to their family.
However, a large lot does not automatically mean an addition is possible. Before purchasing, buyers should investigate setbacks, easements, lot coverage, drainage, utilities, zoning, flood considerations and any HOA or deed restrictions. A qualified contractor, architect and the appropriate local building/planning authorities can help determine what is actually possible.
Consider a Duplex or New Construction. A duplex can be an excellent multigenerational solution because each generation can have its own kitchen, living area, entrance and bathroom while remaining on the same property. However, check into zoning, building codes and property tax implications, as well. With Florida’s homestead provisions, you’ll need to have the property designated as a single-family home, versus duplex or multi-family, if you want to minimize the taxes you’ll owe.
New construction is another possibility. Some builders offer floor plans designed specifically for multigenerational families, with separate entrances, living areas, primary suites and other features that provide greater independence.
Look Beyond Square Footage. When evaluating a potential multigenerational home, consider more than the number of bedrooms.
Ask:
- Does each generation have enough privacy?
- Are there enough bathrooms?
- Is there a private entrance?
- Is there a second living area?
- Is there a kitchen or kitchenette?
- Is there room to expand?
- Are existing additions or conversions properly permitted?
For families with aging parents, accessibility should also be considered. Features such as first-floor bedrooms, walk-in showers, wider doorways and minimal steps can become increasingly valuable over time.
The Right Home May Not Exist—Yet.
The perfect multigenerational property could be an existing home with an in-law suite, a duplex, a new construction home—or simply a home on the right lot that can be expanded.
The important thing is to think beyond the listing description.
If you can’t find the home that meets all your family’s needs, find the right location and a property with the potential to create the home you need.
A knowledgeable local Realtor like me can help identify properties that fit your requirements and, before you purchase with an addition in mind, help you determine which questions need to be answered about the property’s zoning, restrictions and development potential. The latter by the way is important to verify no matter what real estate properties you’re considering.