In Asian communities where filial piety is almost customary, it is very common for parents to live with their children even after the children have gotten married and started their own families. Multigenerational living has benefits – elderly parents are taken care of while they, in turn, can become caregivers for their grandchildren.
Besides the familial support system, multigenerational living also makes financial sense. Buying your first home comes with a heavy financial commitment, and choosing to live with your parents can help you save money. Sharing expenses can reduce the cost of living, and with grandparents taking care of their grandchildren, parents can save on childcare expenses.
Multigenerational living also has disadvantages, with so many people living under the same roof. Privacy and comfort are the main concerns. It is important to choose the right home so that people are not breathing down each other’s necks, which will hopefully reduce family drama.
Features of Multigenerational Homes
So, what makes a multigenerational home? Technically, any house that can fit the number of people in the family (comfortably) qualifies as one. Remember that the number of people in a multigenerational family can vary significantly. A two-bedroom condominium will suffice for a single adult living with his or her parents. More space will be needed for a married couple with three children living with their parents.
In recent years, developers have started designing multigenerational homes specifically so that they are fit for purpose. Multigenerational homes generally have a few features in common.
1. Space
One of the biggest considerations for a multigenerational home, especially if there are many people in the family, is space. Although larger homes are ideal, the number of rooms available is more important. Each couple would need their own room, and while young children can sleep with their parents, they will need their own rooms once they grow older. Parents will appreciate having the space to isolate all that teenage angst.
2. Privacy
Having enough space in a multigenerational home does not necessarily mean there is enough privacy for everyone. Homes with separate living areas or even separate entrances mean each family has some personal space for themselves (and away from each other). For example, a five-room bungalow might offer more space than a dual-key condominium, but the latter offers more privacy because it has separate living spaces.
3. Accessibility
With older folks living in a multigenerational home, home accessibility is important. Even if they are still mobile, walking up a flight of stairs might be strenuous, so having a bedroom on the ground floor would be practical. Planning ahead, it might be a good idea to consider homes that are wheelchair accessible.
4. Safety
Often, children are left with their grandparents while their parents work. Living in a safe area will minimise potential incidents with two groups of vulnerable people at home during the day. Living in a condo or gated community with 24-hour security will protect your home and family.
5. Shared Spaces
A family will spend much time at home, and you will need functional shared spaces for family activities and to create memories. Areas such as the living and dining rooms are especially important and are a central part of the home, so make sure they are designed and furnished to accommodate everyone.
Pros and Cons of Multigenerational Homes
Multigenerational living with many people under the same roof has pros and cons. What matters most are your priorities. Some people choose to live with their parents as a form of filial piety; some do so to save money while others do so out of necessity, for example, a couple who needs their parents to help with their children.
Advantages
1. Shared expenses and cost saving: Besides sharing home expenses such as assessment, quit rent and utilities, you can also save on living expenses such as groceries and childcare. The money saved can be used better, such as your children’s education fund.
2. Support system: It is always helpful to have your parents around to help care for your children, but conversely, the older folks will feel less lonely with their children and grandchildren in the same house. This gives them a sense of purpose and security.
3. Shared household responsibilities: Household tasks such as cleaning and cooking can be divided between more people, thus reducing the burden of only one person or one couple doing them. Imagine a scenario of a young adult couple who constantly have to work late. By having their parents at home with their children, they will not have to worry about picking up their kids or rushing home after work to cook dinner.
4. Closer familial ties: Multigenerational families living together often have a stronger bond because of the close proximity. There are more opportunities to create shared memories.
Disadvantages
1. Lack of privacy: One of the biggest disadvantages of multigenerational living is the lack of privacy unless the house is well-designed for separate living spaces.
2. Increased conflict: Being in close proximity to so many family members all the time can lead to more conflicts. Two people making decisions for a household can already be challenging, and what more, having your parents in the picture as well?
Choosing A Multigenerational Home
A well-designed multigenerational home can help create a more comfortable and harmonious living environment. Some properties are more suited for this purpose than others, but you do not have to break the bank to own one. Just make sure to really consider your circumstances, such as the number of family members, desired space, and accessibility needs, before deciding on one.
Here are some affordable newly-launched properties you can consider for your multigenerational home.
1. Radium Adesa Desa East Residences
Conveniently located along Jalan Sungai Besi near the Bandar Malaysia development, Radium Adesa Desa East Residences is a leasehold apartment that has the facilities of a condominium including a swimming pool.
With access to major highways, including the Sungai Besi Expressway, Maju Expressway (MEX), Setiawangsa Pantai Expressway (SPE), and the SMART Tunnel, it is easy to reach areas such as Bukit Bintang, KL Sentral, Sri Petaling, and Kuchai Lama within a 10km radius of the development.
| Location | Jalan Sungai Besi, Kuala Lumpur |
| Developer | Radium Development Berhad |
| Property Type | Apartment |
| Tenure | Leasehold |
| Total Units | 1,218 |
| Built-up Sizes | 850 sq ft – 2,560 sq ft |
| Expected Completion | 2027 |
| Selling Price | From RM498,000 |
Slated for completion in 2027, Radium Adesa Desa East Residences has several layout plans, from three to 4+1 bedrooms, making it suitable for multigenerational living. With 24-hour security, your family can safely enjoy leisure time in the ample communal spaces within the development.
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2. Aster Hill
Aster Hill is a new serviced residence by UOA Development Berhad in Sri Petaling, a matured township known for its abundance of food outlets. It has easy access to Jalan Kuchai Lama, Maju Expressway (MEX), Shah Alam Expressway (KESAS), and KL-Serembam Highway while the Sri Petaling LRT station is a 5-minute drive away.
| Location | Sri Petaling, Kuala Lumpur |
| Developer | UOA Development Berhad |
| Property Type | Serviced Residence |
| Tenure | Freehold |
| Total Units | 1,150 |
| Built-up Sizes | 852 sq ft – 1,077 sq ft |
| Expected Completion | 2027 |
| Selling Price | From RM498,000 |
The units are more modestly sized, from 852 sq ft to 1,077 sq ft, but the 3-bedroom configurations make them suitable for multigenerational living. Your family members can use the facilities such as the swimming pool, gymnasium, children’s playground, and reading room for recreation (and to get some space for alone time).
There is a primary and a secondary school in the neighbourhood. Grocery shopping is a breeze with The Store, NSK Trade City, and Giant Supermarket located nearby. With the variety of food and beverage offerings in surrounding commercial areas, you will definitely not go hungry living here.
The IMU Healthcare Medical Clinic is also within the neighbourhood, about 5km away, catering to the needs of elderly family members.
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3. Ritma Perdana (Townhouse)
Ritma Perdana (Townhouse) is located within the LBS Alam Perdana development in the fast-developing township of Puncak Alam. This neighbourhood is suited for families with young children who want a more relaxed lifestyle away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
| Location | LBS Alam Perdana, Bandar Puncak Alam |
| Developer | Kemudi Ehsan Sdn Bhd |
| Property Type | Townhouse |
| Tenure | Leasehold |
| Total Units | 250 |
| Built-up Sizes | 1,191 sq ft and 1,308 sq ft |
| Expected Completion | 2024 |
| Selling Price | From RM398,040 |
The Ritma Perdana offers 3-bedroom units of 1,191 sq ft (lower unit) and 1,308 sq ft (upper unit). Townhouses offer the option of extended multigenerational living if another family member lives in the other unit of the townhouse, for example a sibling or in-laws.
The amenities in Puncak Alam are slowly growing to cater for the increasing population. There are commercial areas with various food offerings and a Jaya Grocer supermarket in the neighbouring Eco Grandeur. There are several schools in the vicinity including the Sasana International School.
Puncak Alam is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts because the Bukit Cherakah Forest Reserve and Kuala Selangor are within a 30-minute drive.
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4. LSH33
Nestled within the matured township of Taman Pelangi in Sentul, LSH33 is an affordable condominium development by Besteel Engtech Sdn Bhd. With direct access to the Damansara-Ulu Kelang Expressway (DUKE Highway), the Kuala Lumpur city centre is just about 10km away.
There are plenty of food and retail stores in the surrounding areas, while the Columbia Asia Hospital Setapak is about 15 minutes away. For a bit of green space, you can get to the Batu Metropolitan Park by car in about 10 minutes.
| Location | Sentul, Kuala Lumpur |
| Developer | Besteel Engtech Sdn Bhd |
| Property Type | Condominium |
| Tenure | Leasehold |
| Total Units | 900 |
| Built-up Sizes | 950 sq ft |
| Expected Completion | 2024 |
| Selling Price | From RM475,000 |
The three-bedroom layout provides enough space for family members, and the development has facilities such as a swimming pool, gym, playground and jogging track.
Its close proximity to the city centre makes it suitable for those working in Kuala Lumpur. The nearest MRT station is Kampung Batu station, while the nearest LRT station is Sentul Timur, which is about 10 minutes by car.
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5. Citrine Hills Double-Storey Terrace House @ BBKP
In the south of the country, where the price of real estate is lower, buying landed property on a budget is possible. The Citrine Hills Double-Storey Terrace House @ BBKP in Bandar Baru Kangkar Pulai starts at RM518,000 and is ideal for multigenerational living.
| Location | Johor Bahru |
| Developer | Keck Seng (M) Sdn Bhd |
| Property Type | Double-storey terrace house |
| Tenure | Leasehold |
| Total Units | 112 units |
| Built-up Sizes | 1,845 sq ft |
| Expected Completion | 2024 |
| Selling Price | From RM518,000 |
The nature-inspired township is about 30 minutes away from Iskandar Puteri and easily connects to the Skudai-Pontian Highway to the new second interchange at Pulai Jaya and the Second Link to Singapore.
The 1,845 sq ft homes have four bedrooms, and the older generation of families can use the one on the ground floor for easy accessibility. There are several primary and secondary schools nearby, making it convenient for those with school-going children.
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6. Alysia 2 Phase 4F1
In the resort-themed township of Tanjung Putri Resort in Johor, the Alysia 2 Phase 4F1 double-storey terrace houses are also developed by Keck Seng (M) Bhd. Living here is great for golfers because the Tanjung Puteri Golf and Resort is just a stone’s throw away.
| Location | Pasir Gudang, Johor |
| Developer | Keck Seng (M) Bhd |
| Property Type | Double-storey terrace house |
| Tenure | Freehold |
| Total Units | 88 |
| Built-up Sizes | 1,540 sq ft – 1,749 sq ft |
| Expected Completion | 2025 |
| Selling Price | From RM498,000 |
The 1,540 sq ft and 1,749 sq ft units both have four bedrooms and three baths, providing ample space for multigenerational living. The Pasir Gudang Highway and Johor Bahru – Pasir Gudang Highway provide easy access to the area.
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7. Aston Acacia @ Bukit Mertajam
In Penang, the area to look for more affordable property will be on the mainland due to the scarcity of land on the island. The Aston Acacia @Bukit Mertajam has units starting from RM478,000 and is located on the fringes of a mature neighbourhood with plenty of amenities nearby.
| Location | Bukit Mertajam, Penang |
| Developer | Hua Yang Berhad |
| Property Type | Serviced Residence |
| Tenure | Freehold |
| Total Units | 622 |
| Built-up Sizes | 883 sq ft – 1,206 sq ft |
| Expected Completion | 2025 |
| Selling Price | From RM478,000 |
The layouts of this serviced residence range from three- to four-bedroom units with sizes between 883 sq ft and 1,206 sq ft. The facilities provided in this development are quite generous and include a lap pool, wading pool, jacuzzi, gymnasium, squash court, multi-purpose court and children’s playground – plenty to keep both adults and children busy.
The elderly in a multigenerational family will appreciate this laidback town that is not too congested.
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8. Ceria D’Eco Horizon
In Bandar Cassia on the mainland in Penang, Ceria D’ Eco Horizon is an affordable project located within the Eco Horizon township by EcoWorld. The 1,000 sq ft units start from RM443,800.
| Location | Seberang Perai, Penang |
| Developer | Eco Horizon Sdn Bhd |
| Property Type | Apartment |
| Tenure | Freehold |
| Total Units | 1,302 |
| Built-up Sizes | 1,000 sq ft |
| Expected Completion | 2027 |
| Selling Price | From RM443,800 |
The project is located right next to the Eco Horizon commercial area, making it very convenient to walk over to the cafes and restaurants located there. Ikea Batu Kawan is just across the road from the development.
The three-bedroom units come with two car parks, making them a great location for those who work in the industrial park next to them.
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