As the property landscape continues to evolve, many New Zealanders are rethinking what their living situation looks like. Rising living costs, changes in family dynamics, cultural values and lifestyle preferences are driving more people toward multi-generational and alternative living arrangements.

From grandparents moving in to support children, to young adults saving for their first home, to families seeking larger spaces or more flexible layouts, shared living is becoming an increasingly popular and practical solution.

At EVES, we’re seeing this trend reflected across the Bay of Plenty market, with buyers actively searching for homes that offer more versatility, privacy and long-term adaptability. Below we cover the reasons why and what buyers are now looking for.

Why Multi-Generational Living Is on the Rise

1. Affordability and Financial Security

With rising house prices and ongoing cost-of-living pressures, combining households can significantly reduce expenses. Families are increasingly pooling resources to:

  • Purchase larger properties
  • Reduce mortgage pressure
  • Share utilities and living expenses
  • Accelerate savings goals

This can be particularly beneficial for first-home buyers or retirees looking to downsize their financial commitments.

2. Cultural & Family Values

For many cultures in New Zealand, living with extended family isn’t new, it’s a long-held tradition. What is new is how mainstream the concept has become. More Kiwi families are prioritising:

  • Staying connected
  • Supporting ageing parents
  • Providing childcare within the whānau
  • Maintaining strong intergenerational bonds

The result? Demand for homes that support togetherness while still ensuring independence.

3. Practical Lifestyle Benefits

Multi-generational living offers real lifestyle advantages, such as:

  • Built-in childcare support
  • Help with household responsibilities
  • Shared transport
  • Companionship for older family members
  • Greater flexibility during life transitions

Many families appreciate the emotional support and sense of community that shared living provides.

What Buyers Are Looking For

As alternative living grows, we’re seeing a shift in buyer priorities. Properties with the following features are in high demand:

·         Self-contained areas Sleepouts, granny flats, minor dwellings and basement conversions. These provide privacy while keeping the family close.

·         Flexible floorplans Multiple living areas, additional bathrooms, separate wings or upstairs/downstairs separation and adaptable spaces (e.g., rumpus rooms, offices that can become bedrooms). This allows families to grow and change without outgrowing their home.

·         Larger sections Buyers looking to build minor dwellings or extend existing homes are increasingly targeting properties with good land size and favourable zoning.

·         Accessibility Features Single-level homes, wide hallways and easy-entry access are becoming more desirable for families caring for elderly relatives.

The Rise of Alternative Living Arrangements

Alongside multi-gen living, there’s growing interest in innovative alternatives:

·         Co-Living Friends, siblings or unrelated adults purchasing together - a practical solution for affordability and shared lifestyle preferences.

·         Home-and-Income properties A main residence plus an income-generating flat, ideal for offsetting mortgage costs.

·         Tiny Homes & Modular Builds Cost-effective, flexible and perfect for extra family accommodation or long-term guests.

These options provide freedom and financial benefits without the commitment of buying a traditional larger home.

What This Means for Sellers

If your property offers extra space, a flexible layout or self-contained options, it may attract a broader pool of buyers. Highlighting these features during your campaign can significantly improve buyer interest and achieve stronger results.

Our EVES salespeople are experienced in marketing homes with multi-generational appeal - ensuring the right audience sees the potential your property offers.

Looking Ahead

Multi-generational and alternative living is more than a trend, it’s a shift in how New Zealanders choose to live, support one another and build long-term stability. As families look for smarter, more sustainable ways to thrive, properties that provide flexibility and future-proofing will continue to stand out in the market.

Whether you’re considering selling, buying or exploring how your current home could be adapted, the team at EVES is here to provide tailored advice and local market insight.