When Carlos converted his Westchester garage into a casita for his aging mom, he never expected his millennial daughter to move in too. Now, 43% of Miami homes multigenerational. Here’s how to adapt—without losing sanity.

1. The «Privacy Hub» Solution

Problem:

• Adult kids need independence • Parents require quiet

Miami-Friendly Fixes:

• Garage Conversions: 25K−25K−40K (vs. $300K+ for additions)
  • Must include:
    • Mini kitchenette (ILA-approved)
    • Hurricane-rated French doors
• Pool House Makeovers:
  • Add soundproofing (Biscayne Acoustics sells moisture-resistant panels)

Local Example:
A Palmetto Bay family added a detachable ADU (permitted as «art studio») with fold-down bed.

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2. Bathrooms for All Ages

🚿 Must-Have Upgrades:

• Walk-in showers with:
  • Teak benches (won’t mold)
  • Handheld + rainfall heads
• Anti-scald valves: $150 install (prevents grandkid burns)

💰 Cost-Saver:

• Keep existing tiles—just add non-slip coating ($3/sqft at Floor & Decor)

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3. Hurricane Zones for Peace of Mind

🛡️ Create These Spaces:

• «Safe Room» Essentials:
  • Interior bathroom (no windows) + emergency radio
  • Medication fridge (Sunny Isles Pharmacy stocks compact models)
• Evacuation Prep Station:
  • Pre-packed go-bags (include pet supplies)
  • Notarized medical power of attorney copies

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4. Shared Spaces That Actually Work

🍽️ Kitchen Hacks:

• Two fridge drawers ($1,200 at Best Buy) • Labeled «Mom’s Meds» and «Juan’s Meal Prep»
• Dual coffee stations: Nespresso for adults • Cuban cafetera for abuelos

🌴 Outdoor Harmony:

• Sectioned patios: Privacy plants (hibiscus hedges grow 3ft/year)
• Grandkid Corner: Artificial turf play zone (drains fast post-rain)

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FAQ: Multigenerational Living in Miami

Q: Are garage conversions legal in Miami-Dade?
A: Yes, if under 400 sqft and meet setback rules. We provide free zoning checks.

Q: What’s the cheapest way to add a bedroom?
A: Convert a lanai (about $15K). Requires impact windows but no foundation work.

Q: How do I stop fights over the thermostat?
A: Install ecobee with remote sensors ($249). Lets you control temps per room.

Q: Where can aging parents socialize locally?
*A: Miami-Dade’s «Senior Meetups» at:

• The Falls (Tuesdays)
• Aventura Mall (Fridays, AC!)*

Q: Any grants for accessibility upgrades?
*A: Yes! Florida’s «Hardening Your Home» program covers up to $10K for ramps/grab bars.*