The 'sandwich' generation needs space for live-in help

[Joe Crawford]

There's a new name for those thirty-something individuals who are
stressed out from providing care for both children and aging parents.
They're called the "sandwich" generation, and millions of Canadians
are currently in or approaching this demographic group. It's tough
trying to find enough hours in the day to meet all their commitments.
Many are responding to this situation by arranging for live-in help to
assist with childcare and household chores, either from another family
member or a paid employee. If you're one of the many who plans to go
this route, then it probably means you'll need a nanny suite, "granny
flat", or even an in-law apartment.

Sometimes, the needs for live-in help are most easily accommodated by
moving to a new, more suitable home. But a great many homeowners try
to manage with some modest renovations. If you're trying to decide,
here are a few things to keep in mind as you make your decision.

An effective 'nanny suite' will be appealing to its resident, while at
the same time giving you some privacy, but without putting too much
strain on your budget. A good benchmark in determining what
improvements are worth doing is to measure the cost against the
expected lifespan of the expense. For example, putting in a new 3-pc
bathroom can be relatively expensive. Its cost probably won't be
warranted if you only see it being needed for three or four years
until the kids are in school and a live-in nanny is no longer
required. In a case like that, you might consider a compromise, like
adding a sink and counter to a bed-sitting room, that could later
evolve into a den with a wet bar. On the other hand, if you can see
the nanny suite being used later on as an in-law suite or a more
private room as your children get older, then you'll probably feel the
cost is well worth it.

You should also consider that the number and location of both bedrooms
and bathrooms are important factors when determining the resale value
and buyer appeal of your home. If your renovations are professional
looking, you have an excellent chance of recouping some or all of
their expense when its time to sell. Your Coldwell Banker(R) real
estate professional will be glad to advise you on how such
improvements may impact the value of your home. They can also help
you 'crunch the numbers' to see how much home you can afford, and show
you examples of what other homes are available in your price range
that can accommodate your needs. You may find that, instead of
renovating your existing home, it's in your best interests - both
functionally, and financially - to choose a new home that's more
suited to your current lifestyle.

Whatever your needs, your Coldwell Banker(R) sales professional will be
glad to help you evaluate your options, and come to a sound decision
that's right for you and your family. Why not call and get some
helpful advice?


For more Information on buying or selling real estate in the Kitchener
Waterloo area, call Joe Crawford @ 519 742 5800 x 2117 or visit
www.kitchener-waterloo-homes.com.