Multigenerational homes are households designed to provide space for multiple generations to live under one roof. This home style is on the rise in Austin because they’re practical, affordable, and yield more quality time with family.
So, what exactly is a multigenerational home? The definition of multigenerational living is at least two adult generations living together. It could be aging parents living with their children and grandchildren, adult children who have boomeranged back home, or an adult family member with special needs who requires a little extra help with daily living. Having multiple generations under one roof is a practical option that offers many families flexibility. The top 4 reasons many Americans choose to live in multigenerational homes are shared expenses, quality family time, increased family safety, and shared responsibilities.
Shared Expenses.
Maintaining two households in and around Austin is undeniably costlier and more rigorous than sharing the financial responsibilities under one roof. When living in a multigenerational home, utility and insurance costs can be divided, and two or more mortgages become one. Multi-gen homes can also serve as an excellent alternative to overpriced assisted living facilities for aging parents.
Strengthen Family Relationships.
While most families only come together on special occasions, multigenerational families have the luxury of seeing each other every day if they choose. Living under one roof allows families to develop a high level of attachment and experience a better quality of life.
- Adult children living with their parents have the opportunity to develop new relationships as adults.
- Loneliness is a common social problem for the elderly. While an empty nest weighs heavily on some seniors, simply driving across town to visit family may become increasingly stressful as Austin continues to grow and their familiar landmarks continue to change.
- Grandparents will cherish the daily activities with family members and the time they get to spend watching their grandchildren grow up while living safely in a multigenerational home. Young children will get the immeasurable benefits of creating lifelong memories while developing relationships and connections with an aging generation.
Family Safety.
Austin is one of the eight safest metropolitan areas in the US. Yet, with so many people moving into this region, it would be naïve to ignore the necessity of safety precautions for seniors and single mothers living alone with small children. Home security is a terrific benefit of multiple generations under one roof because a home is rarely left unoccupied for long. Homeowners will have peace of mind knowing that should a health emergency arise, if an older family member falls or a relative with special needs gets hurt, for example, other family members will be around to offer assistance or call first responders.
Shared Responsibilities.
Distributing chores and age-appropriate responsibilities among family members is an excellent way of ensuring that everyone does their part. The high cost of daycare can be eliminated in households with young children if grandparents are able-bodied enough to care for them while the parents are at work. If an aging family member is still able to drive, they can tote school-age children to extracurricular activities if parents get stuck in Austin traffic. However the family decides to divide the household’s responsibilities, the solutions will add efficiency, savings, and closer multigenerational relationships to the home.
With so many positive benefits, it’s easy to see why there’s been a steady rise in the number of multigenerational homes in Austin. If you’re wondering if a multi-gen home might be right for you and your family, the Austin area has plenty of options. Contact Prism Realty today to learn more about how we can guide you home: (512) 609-8098 or info@prismrp.com.