Modular Additions for Multigenerational Households

There are 4.4 million American households who have three generations or more living under one roof. There are also an estimated 51.4 million Americans that currently live in homes with more than two generations. Multigenerational households are a growing trend, up 30% between 2000 and 2010, a figure that will only continue to grow.

"We've seen a 25% increase in demand for multigenerational homes over the past two years and expect to see more," said the CEO of a company which specializes in building custom modular homes.

Though factors such as high unemployment, a battered economy and the recent housing crisis have pushed more people into multigenerational living, studies show that it's a trend that's circled back from days past.

The number of Americans living with their extended family has risen again -- spiking as the Great Recession hit in 2008. The Pew Research Center now estimates that 16% of Americans live in multigenerational households.

The Future of Housing

The rise in multigenerational households over the past few years has changed the landscape of modern home construction. Many families are now looking to either build a multigenerational-friendly home from scratch -- more informally known as the "in-law" setup; or retrofit their existing home with a modular addition to accommodate extended family.

The most common renovation would have to be adding entire wings to an existing house. If they're modular additions, they can take anywhere from four to six weeks to complete.

Usually the wings are 600 to 800 square feet, depending on the town and their guidelines. It's much more economical to add on, as you're able to customize the addition with high-end amenities.

For more information on multi family modular homes or modular additions, contact Avalong Building Systems.

Excerpts - AOL Real Estate