Thriving in a multigenerational home

Multigenerational living is becoming a popular choice for Quebec families. While it comes with its fair share of challenges, the rewards of this lifestyle are hard to ignore.

What is a multigenerational home?

A multigenerational home typically consists of two separate living spaces under one roof. These areas often include their own entrances, kitchens, bathrooms, living rooms, and bedrooms, ensuring a sense of independence while maintaining a shared connection.

Why are families embracing multigenerational living?

Living in a multigenerational home fosters unique opportunities for connection, support, and even cost savings. Here are some of the key benefits of multigenerational living:

An in-house support network

Having grandparents nearby means aging family members can receive care in a familiar and secure environment. At the same time, they can lend a helping hand by babysitting, picking up kids from school, or assisting with homework.

Sharing responsibilities

Household chores become less overwhelming when responsibilities are divided. Cooking, cleaning, shopping, and yard work can be shared, easing the burden on busy parents while giving grandparents a sense of purpose.

Lifelong learning and bonding

From grandparents teaching time-honoured recipes and gardening tips to kids sharing their tech-savvy skills, this setup allows for exchanging knowledge and creating priceless memories.

Financial benefits

Sharing expenses such as mortgage payments, utilities, and maintenance costs can ease financial pressures. These savings can free up resources for family outings, hobbies, or other priorities.

The downsides of multigenerational living

Of course, sharing a home with multiple generations isn't always smooth sailing. It’s important to address potential issues to ensure harmony:

Clashing of opinions

Different values, parenting styles, and lifestyle habits can lead to friction. Open communication and mutual respect are key to navigating these challenges.

Privacy matters

Balancing togetherness and personal space is crucial. Setting boundaries between parents and grandparents—like designated family time and quiet hours—helps maintain harmony.

Financial planning

While costs are shared, unexpected expenses, such as health care needs or home modifications, can arise. Careful budgeting ensures everyone is on the same page.

Dividing chores fairly

Even with the best intentions, disagreements over responsibilities can surface. Discussing expectations openly and putting them in writing can help avoid misunderstandings.

Why choose a multigenerational home?

Despite a few challenges, living in a multigenerational home offers significant benefits.

Families are often drawn to this lifestyle for financial savings, emotional support, and stronger family bonds. It also helps grandparents maintain their independence for a longer period.

Tips for successful multigenerational living

To ensure harmony before moving in, setting clear expectations is essential. Based on her personal experience, Élise, cofounder of Vie de Parents and Vie de Grands-Parents, shares these valuable tips:

• Set clear boundaries: Define household rules—locked doors, availability hours, visits from grandchildren, and general expectations. Make sure the children are aware of these too.
  • For example: Élise installed a light system between the homes. Green meant “available,” while red signalled “busy.”
• Discuss finances 
  • Creating a shared budget ensures everyone is aligned and comfortable with the financial commitments.
• Support family members
  • Grandparents can help care for young children, while the rest of the family makes sure that the grandparents’ needs are also met.

Open discussion and mutual respect are importan for a successful multigenerational living experience. For personalized guidance, consult a real estate professional who can help you explore options suited to your family’s needs.

Text written in collaboration with Vie de Grands-Parents.