The trend toward multigenerational living is growing—17 % of home buyers in 2024 purchased multigenerational homes (source: NAR).
Rising housing costs, caregiving needs and a desire for family closeness motivate households to combine resources.
In Suffolk County, limited inventory and high prices mean creative solutions like accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and homes with secondary suites are increasingly valuable.
What qualifies as multigenerational living?
- Two or more adult generations living under one roof.
- A parent moving in with an adult child, perhaps after the loss of a spouse or to reduce expenses.
- Families combining resources to purchase a larger property with separate living spaces.
Features multigenerational buyers want
- Dual primary suites or first‑floor bedrooms for privacy and accessibility
- En‑suite bathrooms and, if possible, kitchenettes.
- Separate entrances or accessory dwelling units—small independent dwellings on the same lot (sometimes called “in‑law suites”).
Accessory dwelling units (ADUs)
An ADU can be a converted garage, a basement apartment or a detached cottage. While zoning rules vary across Suffolk County municipalities, many towns—including Brookhaven, which encompasses Setauket, Mount Sinai and Miller Place—are beginning to allow ADUs to address housing shortages. Building an ADU before selling could broaden your home’s appeal, though costs and permitting should be carefully considered.
Benefits of multigenerational living
- Shared expenses: Pooling resources helps families afford higher‑priced areas like Stony Brook or Port Jefferson.
- Caretaking and support: Older relatives can help with child care, while younger generations assist with caregiving.
- Stronger family bonds: Many baby boomers sell to be closer to family; multigenerational living can accomplish this without requiring multiple moves.
How I can help?
I stay current on Brookhaven’s zoning changes and can advise whether adding an ADU or highlighting existing in‑law suites will increase your home’s value. For buyers seeking multigenerational homes, I use targeted searches and local networking to find properties with flexible layouts. Whether selling or buying, let’s explore how multigenerational living could work for you.
Shaughnessy Dusling
Licensed Associate Broker at Real Broker NY LLC
150 Motor Parkway St 401, Hauppauge NY 11788
cell 631.612.1616
shaughnessysells(at)gmail(dotted)com