Buying a house with extended family North of Boston

Are you thinking of buying a house with extended family North of Boston? Whether you need an extra hang out space for your teens or you are looking to integrate a favorite aunt or parent into your existing household, these homes offer the extra space you need!

Sometimes you just need an extra bedroom, other times you need a separate space for relaxing. Your family may need a second kitchenette area connected to a second, comfortable living room. Every family is different and integrating all of the unique personalities into one household can be challenging without a little space for some breathing room!

Purchasing a Home with Extended Family: A Comprehensive Guide

Why Buy with Extended Family?

• Financial Benefits: Sharing the cost of a mortgage, taxes, and maintenance can make homeownership more accessible.
• Shared Responsibilities: Household chores, upkeep, and even childcare can be divided among family members.
• Close-knit Support System: Living with family can provide emotional and physical support, especially for elderly members or those with health issues.

Considerations Before Buying:

• Legal Structure: Decide if the property will be owned as ‘tenants in common’ (each party owns a specified share) or ‘joint tenants’ (everyone owns the property equally).
• Financial Commitments: Understand each party’s contribution towards the down payment, mortgage, and other ongoing costs.
• Privacy: With more family members, there’s a need for clear boundaries. Consider properties that offer separate units or distinct living areas.
• Exit Strategy: What happens if someone wants to move out? Have a plan.

Steps to Purchase:

1. Set a Budget: Understand what everyone can afford. This includes the mortgage, maintenance, insurance, and taxes.
2. List Preferences: Determine essential criteria for the home. Think about size, location, amenities, and accessibility.
3. Engage Professionals: Work with a realtor familiar with multi-generational home purchases. Consider consulting a financial planner or lawyer too.
4. Visit Properties: Look for homes that meet the family’s needs and wishes.
5. Secure Financing: Shop around for the best mortgage rates and terms. Ensure everyone’s credit history is in good standing.
6. Make an Offer: Once you find the right home, make a competitive offer.
7. Closing: Ensure all legal documents reflect the ownership structure agreed upon.

Draft a Co-ownership Agreement: A legal agreement outlining:

1. The ownership percentage of each party.
2. How expenses will be divided.
3. Provisions for what happens if someone wants to sell their share or if a family member passes away.
4. Conflict resolution methods.

Benefits and Challenges:

• Pros: Shared financial burden, emotional support, stronger family ties, pooled resources.
• Cons: Potential conflicts, shared responsibilities, less privacy, complex exit strategy.

Final Thoughts: Purchasing a home with extended family can be a rewarding experience, both financially and emotionally. However, open communication, clear expectations, and legal safeguards are crucial to ensure harmony and prevent potential disputes. Happy house hunting!