During the pandemic, many of us reexamined the meaning of home for ourselves and our loved ones. Today, that can be seen in the recent rise in multi-generational households. According to Jessica Lautz, Deputy Chief Economist and Vice President of Economic Research at the National Association of Realtors (NAR):
“Multi-generational buying may be a home where families live in the same home with elderly parents, children who have boomeranged back home, or other extended family members. While this is not a new concept of living, it is one which has gained recent popularity.”
And citing data from Pew Research Center, the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) says:
“. . . multi-generational living has made a comeback in recent years, particularly after the 2008 financial crisis and during the pandemic.”
So, if buying a multi-generational home has crossed your mind, you aren’t alone. Depending on what stage of home-ownership you’re in, there are different reasons it could be the right fit. The chart below shows responses to a recent survey from NAR about the reasons people have bought a multi-generational home:
Whether your motives are financial or focused on the people you’ll share your home with, a multi-generational home has distinct advantages. It can make home-ownership more affordable, and it can help you best support your loved ones. As Lautz explains:
“Multi-generational home buying is a way for families to care for one another, support one another, and often buy a home that may have been previously out of reach. . . . The trend of multi-generational buying appears to be firmly established and one that could expand in the future.”
Bottom Line
If you’re ready to buy a house, consider the opportunities of a multi-generational home. Let’s connect so you can explore your options in our area.