ᐅ Multi-generational house with an underground garage for three families

Hello everyone,

After reading quietly for a while and really appreciating all the ideas shared here, I’d like to bring up a topic and hopefully get some feedback, suggestions, and ideas!

I am 34 years old and originally from Munich, where I was born and raised.

Currently, we (my wife and I, with a child on the way, my sister and her partner, as well as my parents) are discussing whether to completely rebuild on our plot of land (currently occupied by a single-family house / 1000 sqm (0.25 acres) / 20 × 50 m (65 × 164 ft) / no zoning plan). The idea is to build a fairly modern house with two spacious living areas (each with its own terrace overlooking the garden, large living and dining areas, etc., and about 200 sqm (2150 sq ft) of living space), including an underground garage and a basement. A granny flat (or accessory dwelling unit) is also planned to be integrated.

I would like to start a discussion based on these ideas and am looking forward to any input or constructive criticism.

Thank you very much.

So you want space for your parents, your sister and her family, and your own family, right?

I see several challenges: depending on the orientation of the plot, one half could be less attractive. Who would voluntarily take that side?

The sister’s boyfriend should be excluded from the financing. At least, that’s what I would do if I didn’t own any part of the land. But what influence would he have in the planning, and how will he contribute financially in the future?

Have you also discussed what everyone’s expectations are regarding possible future care needs?

How can you protect yourselves in case one of the borrowers defaults? How do you want to handle everything — from the technical aspects to finances — separately or pooled together?

Hello Maria,

thank you for your comments and suggestions.

The situation is indeed as you described. The orientation might be a factor that becomes somewhat challenging. We have, however, appropriate expectations for an architect regarding this.

My sister’s boyfriend should have an equal say, as further personal plans (marriage, etc.) will likely be developed soon.

Fortunately, we are financially in a position to manage the financing without a loan, and this could be done collectively from a large shared fund. I basically rule out any disagreements or problems.

Care arrangements, for example for my parents, are already well organized so that we do not need to worry about them.

Basically regulated

Everything is clearly separated. Now there is a clear arrangement for what would happen in each case. Unfortunately, it often happens that siblings stop talking to each other. After that, every cent and every hour of work is calculated and disputed.

Have you also considered how things might unfold in the worst-case scenario, such as if the sister passes away, her husband inherits, and then falls in love again?

The worst-case scenario has not been discussed yet. However, that is a very important point! Thank you!