With costs of living steadily increasing across the nation, it’s becoming harder and harder for people to afford their homes. 

Young people just starting out are finding it nearly impossible to buy homes and, in turn, are spending on rent without gaining long-term value.

Meanwhile, retirees may find it difficult to maintain the upkeep of their family homes. Even if they prefer the idea of community living, expensive senior housing facilities are out of reach for many.

Concern about your loved ones’ living situations shouldn’t keep you up at night. Read on to discover how multigenerational living could be the key to your family’s future.

What Is Multigenerational Living?

While multigenerational households have been around for centuries, the concept is having a resurgence today. It’s a very practical solution to an overwhelming problem, and more people than ever are considering if it’s the right fit for their families. 

Whether you want to help your children get the best possible start in their adult lives or want to provide your parents with a safe, comfortable place to live, there are a few things to consider when deciding.

How Does Multigenerational Living Help Your Kids?

In the past, there’s been some stigma around moving back in with the parents, but today it’s almost the norm. With a crazy housing market, scraping together enough to buy a home is an almost impossible feat, even with a good-paying job. 

Rent prices are increasing nationwide. Maryland, for instance, is now ranked the 15th most expensive state for rent. 

Many young people end up throwing away thousands of dollars a year that could be going towards a down payment. For many young adults, it’s smarter to save money for their future by moving back home.

If you’re feeling unsure about the dynamics of living with your adult children, never fear. Having your chicks return to the nest doesn’t have to feel like going back in time. With a thoughtful, custom renovation or addition, your adult children can benefit from moving back home without sacrificing their privacy or independence - or yours!

Why Are So Many Parents Moving in with Their Adult Children?

It goes without saying that your parents did a lot for you throughout your life, not the least of which was putting a roof over your head. It’s only natural to want to return the favor and ensure they're properly cared for in their golden years.

For a long time, that looked like making sure your parents were well provided for in a top-notch senior community. But these days, that’s not the only or even the best option. Research shows that the benefits of multigenerational living are numerous.

1. Financial Benefits

First and foremost, assisted living or senior communities are just too expensive for many people. 

• In Maryland, the median cost for an assisted living facility is around $76,236 per year. 
• A semi-private room in a nursing home is approximately $110,004 per year. 
• And according to figures from a few years back, continuing care retirement communities can run monthly fees around $3,600 per month on top of an entrance fee in the ballpark of $402,000. Chances are, those numbers are even higher now.

2. Safety Issues

For a long time, we were told that the safest place for older people was in some kind of care home. This presented two options: either take your family out of the comfort of their homes or do your best to set up a safe environment for them using generic, unsightly, and sometimes questionable equipment.

However, aging-in-place experts can make modifications to your home that are not only safe but also stylish. Using a pro to renovate helps prevent injuries while maintaining a beautiful, comfortable space.

3. Familiar Surroundings

The mental health benefits of staying in a home filled with memories and special items cannot be overstated, especially during times of transition. And being surrounded by family only adds to one’s comfort and well-being.

4. Reduced Stress

While any relocation can be disruptive, moving into the home of close family members reduces stress for both seniors and their families. Especially when you look at the elimination of the financial strain that assisted living facility fees can bring.

Is Your Home a Good Fit for Multigenerational Living? Layout Plans and Design Considerations

Before deciding whether multigenerational living is right for your family, it’s important to think about how your home’s layout and your willingness to modify it will support everyone’s comfort and independence.

The right multigenerational house plans can help prevent conflicts, protect privacy, and ensure daily life feels smooth rather than stressful. When weighing your options, ask yourself:

• Does your current home have enough space for everyone to live comfortably?
  If not, are you open to adding an in-law suite, finishing a basement, or building an addition?
  
• Will everyone have the privacy they need?
  Separate entrances, bathrooms, and living areas can help each family unit maintain boundaries and autonomy.
  
• Are there accessibility needs to consider now or in the future?
  Universal design elements like no-step entries and wider hallways make the home safer for seniors and more convenient for everyone.
  
• Can your home be adapted as your family’s needs change?
  Flexible spaces that can evolve over time, such as converting a guest room to a caregiver suite, help ensure your home remains a good fit.
  
• Are you prepared for the investment and planning required?
  Renovating for multigenerational living often requires professional guidance to meet building codes, plan efficient layouts, and blend function with style.

Thinking through these questions is one of the best ways to determine if multigenerational living aligns with your family’s lifestyle, values, and resources. With the right plan, it can be an incredibly rewarding way to care for loved ones while staying connected.

Work with Maryland’s Experts in Multigenerational Living to Modify Your Home

Taylor Made Custom Contracting is the go to expert in the Baltimore, MD area for transforming houses into homes that embrace the needs of the entire family.

With our award-winning services, we’ll transform your home into a luxurious sanctuary for every member of your family. Our decades of experience in the industry make us uniquely qualified to combine function and style without sacrificing privacy or comfort. 

To schedule a consultation for your dream remodeling project, contact us today or give us a call at (410) 557-0322. Let us help you design the harmoniously happy home your family deserves!