Sandra Govender Real Estate

Multi-generational households in Canada grew 21.2% over the past decade — more than twice the overall rate of household formation, according to Statistics Canada's 2021 Census. And that growth has only accelerated since. 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

This isn't a trend. It's a structural shift.

Driving factors include an aging population, affordability pressures that make independent living difficult for young adults, and immigration patterns that prioritise family reunification. For families housing an aging parent or a family member with a disability, there's an added incentive: the federal Multigenerational Home Renovation Tax Credit provides up to $7,500 for constructing a self-contained secondary suite for a qualifying senior or adult.

House hacking doesn't always mean renting to strangers. Sometimes it means sharing a home — and the costs — with the people who matter most.

Read the full article: https://sandragovender.myagent.site/house-hacking-in-2026-what-the-hype-got-wrong-and-what-actually-works/

One of the quieter shifts in how buyers evaluate homes is the move toward wellness design — the idea that a home's layout and materials should actively support how you feel in it, not just how it looks.

Mentions of "wellness" in listings are up 33% year over year, and "spa-inspired bathrooms" climbed 22%. But the concept goes far beyond the primary bath. Biophilic design — bringing in natural light, organic materials, living plants, and visual connections to the outdoors — has become a core consideration. So has circadian lighting that shifts with the time of day, and dedicated quiet spaces designed for rest and focus.

These aren't luxury add-ons anymore. They're showing up in mainstream listings because people are prioritising how their home makes them feel on a Tuesday afternoon, not just how it presents at a party.

Read the full article: https://sandragovender.myagent.site/2026-home-design-trends-whats-in-whats-out-and-what-buyers-are-responding-to/

Open floor plans aren't going away — but they're growing up. 🏠

Buyers no longer want an undifferentiated box. The shift is toward semi-closed layouts: spaces that feel connected but serve a clear purpose. Subtle architectural separation between the kitchen, dining room, and living areas that maintains flow while creating intimacy.

Why the change? Remote work. When your home is also your office, privacy has real value. Dedicated home offices are one of the most requested features this year, and mentions of "reading nooks" are up 48% in listings.

If you're selling and you have a defined dining room, a separate office, or distinct living zones, don't apologise for them. Stage and describe each space as intentional. Buyers are looking for purpose, not just square footage.

Read the full article: https://sandragovender.myagent.site/2026-home-design-trends-whats-in-whats-out-and-what-buyers-are-responding-to/