Bringing Generations Together: Tips for Finding the Perfect Multigenerational Home in Prescott, Arizona

More families are discovering the benefits of living together under one roof. Whether it’s aging parents moving closer to their adult children, grandparents helping raise grandchildren, or adult children returning home to save money, multigenerational living is becoming an increasingly popular housing option.

And it’s easy to understand why! Sharing a home can provide financial benefits, strengthen family relationships, create built-in support systems, and give families more meaningful time together.

But buying a home for multiple generations requires a little more planning than a traditional home purchase. The right layout, privacy, accessibility, and shared spaces can make all the difference between a home that accommodates everyone and one where everyone truly feels at home.

If you’re considering a multigenerational home in Prescott, Arizona, here are some important things to consider before you start house hunting.

1. Look for a Floor Plan That Offers Privacy

One of the biggest challenges of multigenerational living is balancing time together with personal space. Everyone needs a place to retreat, relax, and enjoy some privacy.

When touring potential homes, look for:

Separate bedroom areas: Ideally, bedrooms for different generations should be located in different sections of the home.
Multiple bathrooms: Enough bathrooms can reduce morning congestion and provide greater independence.
Separate living spaces: A second family room, den, bonus room, or finished basement can give different generations their own gathering areas.
Sound separation: Look for solid doors, insulated walls, and bedrooms that aren’t directly beside noisy common areas.

A split-bedroom floor plan can be especially helpful because it separates the primary suite from additional bedrooms.

2. Consider a Private Suite or Separate Living Quarters

If your budget and the local housing market allow, a home with a separate living suite can be an excellent choice.

Some homes offer features such as:

A guest suite with a private bathroom.
A casita or detached guesthouse.
A finished basement with a separate entrance.
An attached apartment or in-law suite.
A kitchenette or second kitchen.
A private patio or outdoor entrance.

In the Prescott area, properties with casitas or guest quarters can be particularly appealing for families who want to live close together while maintaining some independence.

Be sure to check local zoning, building permits, and HOA restrictions before assuming a space can legally function as a separate dwelling or rental unit.

3. Think About Accessibility and Aging in Place

If parents or grandparents will be living in the home, make accessibility part of your home search from the beginning.

Even if everyone is healthy and mobile today, choosing a home with features that accommodate changing needs can save considerable expense and inconvenience later.

Look for:

Single-level living or a main-floor bedroom and bathroom.
Minimal steps at entrances.
Wide hallways and doorways.
Walk-in showers with low or no thresholds.
Bathrooms with room for grab bars.
Non-slip flooring.
Good lighting throughout the home.
Easy access to the kitchen, laundry, and outdoor areas.

A home with a primary bedroom and full bathroom on the main level is especially valuable. Stairs can become a challenge as family members age, so consider how comfortable the home will be five, ten, or even twenty years from now.

4. Make Sure the Kitchen and Dining Areas Work for Everyone

The kitchen is often the heart of the home, and in a multigenerational household, it may get a lot of use!

Think about how several people will prepare meals, store groceries, and gather around the table.

Features worth considering include:

Plenty of counter space and food preparation areas.
Ample refrigerator and pantry storage.
A large dining area with room for everyone.
An open floor plan that allows family members to gather comfortably.
A second kitchenette if separate living quarters are available.

You may also want to consider whether the home has enough storage for multiple households’ cooking supplies, small appliances, and groceries.

5. Don’t Overlook Parking and Outdoor Space

With several generations living together, there may be more vehicles, visitors, and outdoor activities to accommodate.

When evaluating a property, consider:

A three-car garage or additional parking.
Adequate driveway space.
Room for guests to park.
A backyard or patio where everyone can gather.
Fenced outdoor areas for children or pets.
Low-maintenance landscaping.

One of the wonderful things about living in Prescott is the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors. A covered patio, spacious deck, or shaded backyard can provide a wonderful gathering place for family meals, celebrations, and everyday conversations.

6. Consider Location and Proximity to Everyday Needs

Location becomes especially important when several generations share a home. You may have school-aged children, working adults, and retirees with very different daily routines and needs.

Consider the home’s proximity to:

Medical offices and hospitals.
Grocery stores and shopping.
Schools and childcare.
Parks and recreational opportunities.
Employment centers.
Churches and community activities.

Prescott and the surrounding communities offer a variety of neighborhoods, each with its own character and lifestyle. Whether you’re considering Prescott, Prescott Valley, Chino Valley, or Dewey-Humboldt, think about which location will best serve everyone in your household.

7. Establish Expectations Before Moving In

A successful multigenerational home isn’t just about finding the right property. It’s also about creating a living arrangement that works for everyone.

Before purchasing, have an honest family discussion about:

How household expenses will be divided.
Who is responsible for maintenance and chores.
How shared spaces will be used.
Expectations regarding guests and entertaining.
Privacy and personal boundaries.
Long-term plans if someone’s needs change.

Having these conversations early can prevent misunderstandings and help everyone feel comfortable and respected.

Finding a Home That Brings Your Family Together

A multigenerational home can be one of the most rewarding investments a family makes. It creates opportunities for grandparents to build lasting relationships with grandchildren, adult children to support aging parents, and families to share the responsibilities and joys of everyday life.

The key is finding a home that offers the right balance of togetherness, privacy, functionality, and room to grow.

If you’re considering purchasing a multigenerational home in Prescott or the surrounding communities, having an experienced local Realtor by your side can make the process much easier.

Call Dena & Dave Plane today at (928) 830-6976! The Plane Team can help you explore available properties, identify homes with the features your family needs, and find the right property to bring your generations together.