The popularity of multi-generational housing has been waning for more than 50 years, but has, not surprisingly, experienced a recent resurgence. With the aging of the baby-boomer generation, more retired couples and singles will be moving in with their children. As we continue to live longer, this trend will surely continue.
To further create a resurgence of multigenerational living situations, the challenging economy has forced adult children to move back in with their parents. When an adult child cannot find ample employment, they often turn to mom and dad for help. The economy hasn’t only affected young workers, however. When the promise of a pension does not come to fruition, retiring Americans may need to seek help from their children as well.
According to a study by the Pew Research Center, 21.6% of adults between the ages of 25 and 34 are living with mom and dad, a number that is up from 15.8% in 2000. This “boomerang generation” feels relatively comfortable with their living situation. In fact, many families welcome the idea of multigenerational living. Young couples can benefit from the live-in daycare of their parents, while keeping a watchful eye on the health and well-being of their elders. At the same time, elderly parents can continue to maintain their independence longer. CNN Money recently published an article with tips for planning to move mom and dad back in, while the Saturday Evening Post published a great story on adult children of baby-boomers moving back in. Tales from both sides can be found in publications across the country. Clearly, this is a trend worth noting.
Homebuilders across the country have adapted to this new movement. Many offer floor plans that include first-floor bedrooms with full bathrooms. Growing in popularity are 3rd floor bedroom and bath combos that create a welcome getaway for younger adults living with their parents as well.
Eastwood Homes offers several plans to suit the needs of the multigenerational household. The Cypress plan can be built with up to 6 bedrooms, including a full bedroom and bath on the 1st floor AND the same on the 3rd floor.
Parents of returning adult children also find the Raleigh plan to work well for their living arrangement. With a full master suite on the first floor, their older children can stay out of the way on the 2nd floor.
One of the newest plans offered by Eastwood, the Davidson, offers something for everyone. With an optional full bedroom and bath on the first floor, the potential for a full guest suite on the second floor AND a third floor bonus room or bed/bath combo, this plan can house even the largest family.
The Drexel and the Ellerbe offer a 3rd floor option that is perfect for “boomerang” adult children, but also functions well as a man-cave.
When multiple generations live under one roof, it is important that each has his own private space in order to preserve the sanity of all involved. Eastwood Homes understands that the trend toward multigenerational living will likely continue to grow. The company will continue to develop innovative plans to suit such a buyer.
Eastwood Homes builds in Charlotte, Raleigh, and the Triad area of North Carolina, and in Charleston and Greenville, South Carolina. Each of the 5 divisions of Eastwood Homes offers plans to fit the needs of their particular buyer. To find the home plan that suits your unique living situation, visit www.eastwoodhomes.com.
Fri, Jul 13, 2012
Inside Eastwood Homes, Real Estate News