Multi-generational housing is growing rapidly in popularity across the country. In fact, at least 20% of the population now lives in a multi-generational household, that is, one in which two or more generations live under the same roof. The primary drivers of this growing phenomenon include financial distress and health problems – for example, an adult child moving back in with parents after a job loss or elderly parents who can no longer live independently moving back in with adult children. The difficulty, though, lies in the fact that there’s a lot more to consider when you’re buying multi-generational housing. So let’s take a look at what you should look for when buying multi-generational housing in Atlanta.
Housing that Meets Everyone’s Needs and Wants
One of the top things to look for when buying multi-generational housing in Atlanta is housing that will meet the needs and wants of everyone who will live there. This is also there that will be the most difficult because you have to take into account the priorities of different people and different generations, and it will involve a good bit of negotiation and compromise.
A good way to proceed is to make a list of each family’s/generation’s wants and needs. Then you can compile the lists into a single master list. This will allow you to know, for example, how many bedrooms and bathrooms you’ll need and what features you need to look for. Proceeding in this manner will make the shopping process much easier and smoother and can head off disagreement and argument.
Also, be sure, once you have your master list, to work closely with a Atlanta agent to find the housing that meets the maximum number of needs and wants. To consult an experienced agent, call (404) 977-5054.
An Appropriate Layout and Floor Plan
Next on the list of things to look for in multi-generational housing is a layout/floor plan appropriate for all involved.
Keep in mind here that you’ll be living closely with household members of varying ages and with varying lifestyles. So make sure the layout will allow for privacy and give each family member sufficient individual space.
In addition, you will need to consider the kitchen, whether it’s large enough to accommodate more people, more meals, and different eating times and needs. And there are often mobility issues to consider. Elderly family members may need an open floor plan with ample room to navigate when using walkers or wheelchairs, as well as everything conveniently located on one floor so they don’t have to climb stairs.
Room for Separate Living Areas
Similarly, multi-generational housing (in most cases) should have separate living areas, especially if the multi-generational living will be a long-term arrangement. Giving everyone their own space and privacy will ensure that you’re not all living on top of one another, and separate living areas will help achieve this.
So you might consider, say, a fully equipped guest house for one generation to live in. Or, as is more often the case, look for housing that offers two (or more) master suites. Again, you can consult a Atlanta agent at (404) 977-5054 to find multi-generational housing that best meets your privacy and separate living needs.
Potential for Flex Spaces
Also, be on the lookout for multi-generational housing that has the potential for separate flex spaces.
Of course, when multiple generations are living together space will be at a premium. It’s a good idea then to look for housing with a versatile layout (and rooms) that can be adapted to meet a variety of needs and serve a variety of purposes. A couple of examples are a bedroom that can double as a study or a room that can be used as a nursery.
Resale Value
And, of course, as with any type of housing, resale value should always be an important consideration. You may plan to live there for a long time, but you never know what the future holds, and you may have to sell. So when buying multi-generational housing in Atlanta, look for property that promises to have high resale value.
Professional Assistance for Buying Multi-Generational Housing
As you can see, then, when purchasing this kind of housing there are very different things to consider than if you were buying single-family housing. And getting it right is critical with so many people and generations living together. Your best bet then is to work closely with an experienced Atlanta agent to make sure you do get it right. When you’re considering buying multi-generational housing in Atlanta, be sure to contact us at (404) 977-5054.