Multi-generational living: The new version of “home”

Empty nesters are becoming scarcer these days. For the first time in 130 years, there are more adult children between the ages of 18 and 34 who are living with their parents than with a spouse, significant other, roommates, or alone. More than 60.6 million Americans are living in multi-generational households—19 percent of the population, according to a Pew Research study. This is the highest number since 1950. From having the kids move back home to providing care for elderly family members, today’s homes are comprised of two or more generations. Can you accommodate this change in lifestyle? It’s different than having a room for your kids while they were growing up. Adults—whether young or old—want independence and privacy (even though they’re living under your roof). That means converting, remodeling, or adding a bonus suite (also known as a mother-in-law suite), or moving to a home with more than one owner’s suite. Several of Ideal Homes’ flexible floor plans accommodate the additional suites for your multi-generational living. The Pendleton, Glenwood, Henley, and Bradford new home designs feature a three-car garage. We’ve created an option where you can convert this space to a bonus suite, with its own private entrance. We’ve also designed floor plans that allow you to expand a bedroom to a suite. The Lancaster gives you the option of adding with a half-bath, half-bath with linen closet, or three-quarter bath. With the Thatcher home design, you can convert a study to a suite with your choice of half-bath or full bathroom. Ideal Homes’ Cambridge features a floor plan that is ideal for a three-generation home. Convert the Cambridge’s third garage bay to a mother-in-law suite and, if you need more living space, change the upstairs bonus room to a suite with a three-quarter bathroom. Our Stafford home plan provides the option for creating a suite from the bonus room. Just down the road Another trend we’re seeing is keeping adult families in the same community, but not under the same roof. Grandparents want to move closer to their children and grandchildren, but are not ready to co-habitate. By purchasing multiple homesites or homes in the same community, you can keep your loved ones close but not too close. Everyone enjoys their freedom! In the Oklahoma City area, Ideal Homes offers a wide range of new home communities, new home designs, and options. Contact us to see how you can accommodate multiple generations in your home or your neighborhood.