Independent / Multi-Generational Living
The smart alternative.
Independent / Multi-Generational Living
What do you want your new space for? At Swift we refer to these buildings as Living Annexes. Why? Because increasingly they are not just for “granny”! (… or Grandad!).
Creating a home where different generations of a family can live at one address, and with as much or as little independence and support as required is increasingly sought after. The benefits can be huge – on many levels.
Let’s start with the younger generation. We bring our children up and equip them with the ability to live independent and successful lives. If you and your grown-up children are ready for that step, then an annexe can be the perfect solution. The first step on the property ladder gets more and more challenging to reach due to property price inflation, increasing mortgage rates and lenders caution. Building a Living Annexe will not be cheap – but if done properly the extra space will be an appealing and valuable asset to the main property – adding much more space for the investment than buying a starter home.
Your growing family can have the valuable independence that they (and you) deserve, at costs that are a fraction of First Time-Homeownership. This gives a breathing space to carry on saving and you have the comfort of knowing that their home is secure, efficient and close-to-hand.
And what about the older generation? History seems to be repeating itself – and with great benefits. As elderly relatives become a little more dependent on help and support, they are being welcomed back into the family setting. This does not need to be through necessity… although sometimes this is the case when an unexpected illness or condition demands. If this shift can take place in good health then there are many things to relish – the mutual companionship, readily available baby-sitters, etc, etc.
When an elderly relative cannot manage any longer in their existing home, then the alternatives to a Living Annex can be both challenging and expensive. The huge shift in lifestyle, the withdrawal of independence and the lack of choice can be very hard to deal with. Selling the existing home and investing in a granny annex can sometimes be a far more comfortable transition which may also release capital which can be put to more exciting and beneficial use.
Please be aware that we have the excellent services of professionals who can provide independent advice and guidance for the financial and legal changes that should be considered.
Are there other ways that your family may benefit from this additional living space?
- Other family members…maybe a relative who has returned from abroad or someone who’s relationships have dramatically changed.
- A family member who has special physical or mental-health needs that can be helped by a dedicated suite of rooms
- Live-in carers or specialists who need to be close to hand, and also benefit from some privacy and independence.
Providing the requirements are within any planning permission conditions, then the flexibility of this space is valuable – both financially and as a resource.
Our Process
We aim to provide you with an outline of what to expect along this journey – seamlessly from initial contact, to the handing over of keys to your new living annexe.
Our Process page willl guide you through each step, so that you know what to expect and when.
