It's beginning to look like the demand for multigenerational homes, driven up by the recession, may have staying power. As the economy improves, families continue to buy these homes. In fact, multigenerational homes are still so popular builders say city ordinances are holding them back, creating a shortage of the housing.
According to a 2014 Pew Research study, more than 18 percent of the nation’s population — approximately 57 million Americans — lived in a multigenerational household, up from 15 percent in 2000. Builders say those numbers could be even larger if local zoning laws weren’t preventing the construction of more multigenerational homes.
It’s no surprise that multigenerational living in making a comeback. It allows families to pool their financial resources and lower the cost of housing. That’s not to mention the additional perks of in-home child care and the ability to monitor aging parents.
Yet, some local governments are holding back construciton with zoning laws that aren't compatible with the multigenerational home format.
For example, some multigenerational homes call for more than one kitchen, yet many local governments won’t approve a second kitchen for guest suites, according to a RealtorMagazine article. Where it’s allowed, some builders are using floor plans that include semi-independent suites with separate entrances, bathrooms and kitchens to meet the growing needs for multigenerational households.
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