Multi-generational housing, where three or more generations live together, is becoming more common across Canada, and the Niagara Region is no different. As economic challenges increase and family values change, more people are choosing to share their living space. In this blog, we’ll look at why multi-generational households are growing in popularity, what to keep in mind when searching for multi-generational homes for sale and how McGarr Realty can help you find the right home for your family.
According to the 2021 Canadian Census, the number of multi-generational households in Canada has grown significantly, with 986,400 homes now having more than one generation or multiple families living together. This represents a 45 percent increase over the past 20 years. Rising housing costs, the need for family support, and cultural values are driving this trend. Many families are choosing to live together to share resources, care for aging parents, or help adult children as they build their careers. This shift is changing the housing market, increasing the demand for homes designed for multi-generational living. In these homes, families often have separate living spaces but share bills, household chores and caregiving responsibilities.
Living under one roof offers several key advantages. Here are three of the main ones:
1. Financial Savings: Sharing living expenses helps ease the financial strain on families, making homeownership more affordable. Families in multi-generational homes often pay less in bills than if they were to live separately. This extra money can be used for savings, paying off debt, or pursuing personal interests.
2. Support System: Having family members close by provides both emotional and practical support. In many cases, adults with older children care for aging parents, while grandparents often help with babysitting. A study by Generations United found that 79 percent of multi-generational families say living together makes it easier to meet the care needs of at least one family member. This support can help young parents advance their careers or return to school while ensuring their loved ones receive trusted care.
3. Health and Well-being: Multi-generational households in Canada improve both mental and physical well-being. Older family members benefit from companionship and assistance with daily tasks, while younger generations value the meaningful connections that come from interacting with relatives of different ages. It’s within these daily interactions that cultural values and traditions are passed down to young family members and older generations are taught new ideas and technologies.
Multi-generational home design should accommodate the diverse needs of all family members. Look for homes with separate living areas or flexible spaces that provide privacy while still encouraging family togetherness. Features like higher ceilings, walkout basements, multiple kitchens and bathrooms, and separate side entrances can make a big difference. It’s also important to have a balance of shared and private spaces. Common areas, like patios and family rooms, help bring everyone together, while private spaces allow family members to enjoy some personal time. Since even large homes can have limited space, many multi-generational households in Canada are turning to creative solutions, like adding accessory dwelling units (ADUs), also called “granny flats” or “in-law suites,” to give older adults their own independent living areas.
Accessibility and safety are key factors in multi-generational home design, especially if you have elderly family members living with you. Features like wide doorways, few or no stairs and accessible bathrooms can greatly improve comfort and safety. For families with young children, child-proofing the home will also be important. No matter the family dynamics, it’s essential to have well-maintained walkways and proper outdoor lighting. Keep these factors in mind when touring multi-generational homes for sale.
At McGarr Realty, we recognize the unique needs of multi-generational families. Our team is dedicated to helping you find the right home for your living situation. With our knowledge of construction, bylaw constraints and features that can be adapted for multi-generational use, you can trust us to guide you through the local real estate market to find the right home. Our expertise in multi-generational homes for sale in the Niagara Region means we’ll support you throughout the entire process. Whether you’re looking for a spacious home with a separate suite for grandparents or a property that has plenty of room for both children and parents, we’re here to help. Our commitment to understanding your vision and priorities ensures a smooth and enjoyable home-buying experience.
Find Your Multi-Generational Home With McGarr Realty Today!
Multi-generational housing is becoming a popular choice for many families in Canada, and it’s easy to see why – with benefits like financial savings and strong family support! By focusing on the right factors in your home search and having the right people by your side, you can find a space that fits your family’s lifestyle. Let McGarr Realty assist you on this journey – together, we can find the perfect home for all generations. Ready to explore your options? Contact us today to start your search for the ideal multi-generational home! Don’t forget to check out our featured listings to browse multi-generational homes for sale in the Niagara Region.
The Latest