There are numerous advantages to purchasing a duplex or a semi-detached home, not the least of which are privacy and proximity. Suzanne and her husband live on the second floor of a duplex they co-own with their daughter, who occupies the ground floor. "We lend one another a hand. My husband helps with the maintenance, my daughter drives me to my medical appointments and my son-in-law does small jobs in the apartment. With this arrangement, we've been able to watch our grandchildren grow up. We've been here for 24 years, and we hope to stay for the rest of our lives."
The duplex option lets you stay close to your children without having to comply with the municipal requirements concerning intergenerational homes. And in the event that this type of arrangement no longer suits you, you can always rent out your half or sell it – an option that many municipalities do not permit in the case of intergenerational homes.
Adult lifestyle community
People who intend on being sole owners while still enjoying a sense of community may want to consider the concept of adult villages. They offer autonomy, comfort and, perhaps most importantly, peace and quiet.
The pleasures of freedom
Called "gated communities" or "active-adult communities" in Florida and several other American states, villages for pre-retired or retired persons 50 and over are an increasingly popular option here in Canada as well.
Comprised of one-storey homes, either detached or semi-detached, these communities let you own the bungalows, but staff are hired to provide lawn care, grounds keeping and snow removal, and to maintain a community centre.
As well as help you feel at home, this concept absolves you of the onerous task of performing outdoor work and allows you to make the most of any activities specially tailored to villagers' needs. "I love this arrangement!" says Theresa, who has lived in this type of community since 2004. "We own the space we live in, and we also take part in the activities offered (for instance, I give Spanish lessons). And there are often theme parties – oyster or lobster dinners, large gatherings with the grandchildren, that sort of thing."
While this type of living arrangement is ideal for some, others may find it too restrictive – some communities don't allow fences, sheds or clotheslines. For this reason, it's important to find out about the regulations in force before you decide to move there. And, on top of the often steep purchase price, there are also monthly maintenance costs to consider.
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