EXTENDED FAMILIES
ARE GREAT
BUT YOU DON’T NEED TO LIVE
UNDER THE SAME ROOF
Sixty years ago, it was not uncommon for kids to ride their bikes to their grandparents’
house. Children played outside, on the street and in parks.
Grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins were present However, if you are not quite ready to live under the same
for every milestone, weekly family dinners and nearly roof or on the same property, why not consider estate living
everything in between. Families stayed close to each other – living in close proximity to each other can still bring many
and multiple generations grew up together. of the multigenerational benefits, the most important being
quality family time. Practically, the benefits also include
Three generations living under the same roof is not shared childcare, especially for working parents, and – yes
uncommon in South Africa; the multigenerational household – your children can hop on their bikes and ride to Granny’s
is on the rise. According to Statistics SA, 32.2% of South house. The reverse is also a key factor, as people want to be
African households are multigenerational. close to their ageing parents so they can pop in regularly to
help out with chores and generally take care of Mom and Dad
Local estate agents have noted that there has, over recent while still staying close to their own children. Lifestyle estates
years, been an increasing demand for homes with multiple are extremely popular across South Africa as home buyers
granny flats or separate cottages to accommodate retired are attracted to residential developments that offer both
parents, newlyweds or working singles. At the same time, security and lifestyle amenities, such as leisure, schooling
many retirees who already own large properties are now and sporting activities.
building themselves a retirement cottage on the same stand
while one or more of their adult children move into the Demand for property in Cape Town is out of reach for most,
original family home. thus making the greater metropolitan area more attractive.
14 | www.estate-living.co.za