What should families look for in a multigenerational home in Markham?A good multigenerational home gives each generation privacy and easy shared space. Look for a main-floor bedroom with a full bathroom, a separate living area such as a finished basement or in-law suite, enough parking and step-free access. Ontario now allows up to three residential units on most urban residential lots, such as a house, a basement unit and a garden suite, subject to City rules and permits. A federal Multigenerational Home Renovation Tax Credit can help with the cost of creating a self-contained unit for an eligible senior or adult with a disability.
Many Markham families share a home across generations, to care for parents, help with childcare or share costs. The right layout makes that arrangement easier for everyone.
Michael John Lau, a REALTOR® with the Kaizen Real Estate Team, one of the most active real estate teams in Markham and York Region, helps multigenerational families compare homes by how each person will live in them day to day.
Layouts that work
| Feature | Why it helps |
|---|---|
| Main-floor bedroom and full bathroom | Older family members avoid stairs |
| Finished basement or in-law suite | Separate space for adult children or grandparents |
| Two family rooms | Different generations can relax apart |
| Separate entrance | Privacy and independence |
| Wide driveway or garage | Parking for more drivers |
Home types to consider
- Larger detached homes with a main-floor den that can become a bedroom.
- Bungalows and bungalow lofts in established areas, with one-floor living for parents.
- Homes with a legal second unit, giving a self-contained suite.
- Lots with room for a garden suite, where zoning allows.
See the aging in place guide for accessible features.
Buying for more than one generation?
Michael John Lau can short-list Markham homes with layouts that work for the whole family.
Book a buyer consultationSearch Markham homesPrefer to talk? Call the Kaizen Real Estate Team at (647) 370-8885.
The rules for extra units
Ontario allows up to three residential units on most urban lots with a detached, semi-detached or townhouse dwelling, for example the main home, a basement unit and a garden suite. Each unit still needs permits and must meet fire, building and zoning rules. Markham’s additional residential unit guide explains the requirements. Check the specific property before you buy.
Costs and tax help
- Creating a suite can involve permits, fire separation, a separate entrance and plumbing.
- The federal Multigenerational Home Renovation Tax Credit can return 15% of up to $50,000 in eligible costs for creating a secondary unit for a senior or an adult eligible for the disability tax credit.
- Buying together can mean pooling down payments; get legal advice on ownership and what happens if plans change.
Day-to-day considerations
- Plan for separate thermostats or zones if possible.
- Think about noise between floors and bedrooms.
- Check distance to family doctors, community centres and transit for older relatives who no longer drive.
- Agree on shared costs and responsibilities in writing.
Before you buy
- List each person’s needs: bedroom, bathroom, privacy, accessibility.
- Check zoning and permits for any existing or planned suite.
- Get legal advice on title and a co-ownership agreement.
- Compare homes by layout first, then finishes.
Ultimately, the decision is yours. The goal is to make sure you have all the information before your family buys together.
The right layout lets every generation feel at home. Call the Kaizen Real Estate Team at (647) 370-8885 or book a consultation.
Frequently asked questions
What makes a good multigenerational home?
A main-floor bedroom and bathroom, a separate living area or suite, privacy, parking and step-free access.
How many units can I have on a Markham lot?
Ontario allows up to three residential units on most urban residential lots, subject to City rules and permits.
Is there a tax credit for adding a suite for parents?
The federal Multigenerational Home Renovation Tax Credit can return 15% of up to $50,000 in eligible costs.
Can I build a garden suite for my parents in Markham?
Possibly, if the lot and zoning allow it. Check Markham's additional residential unit rules.
Should both generations be on title?
Get legal advice. Co-ownership has tax and estate implications, and a written agreement helps.
What should older relatives look for nearby?
Doctors, pharmacies, community centres and transit within easy reach.
Michael John Lau and Neeraj Moolchandani are licensed REALTORS® with the Kaizen Real Estate Team, eXp Realty, Brokerage, 9763 Markham Rd, Markham, ON L6E 1A4. Licence #4784577. Call (647) 370-8885. The three-unit rule is from Ontario's Planning Act changes (Bill 23, 2022) and Markham's additional residential unit guide. Tax credit details are from the Canada Revenue Agency (Multigenerational Home Renovation Tax Credit). This is general information, not tax or legal advice. This article is general information only and is not financial, legal or tax advice. Not intended to solicit buyers or sellers currently under contract with another brokerage.
