Multi-Generational Living: The Mistakes That Break Families With Elke Harder

In this episode of Blueprints to Buildings, Glen Palmer sits down with Elke Harder, a realtor specialising in multi-generational living, to explore why more families are choosing to live under one roof — and where it often goes wrong.

As housing affordability continues to challenge families, multi-generational living is becoming a practical solution. But as Elke explains, the biggest issues don’t come from the property itself… they come from lack of communication, unclear expectations, and poor planning.

From finances and ownership structures to privacy, lifestyle differences, and long-term planning, this episode dives into the conversations families must have before making the move.

They also explore how developers are starting to respond to this shift, the rise of dual-purpose homes, and why designing for how people actually live is more important than ever.

Key topics covered:

• Why multi-generational living is on the rise
• The biggest mistakes families make before moving in together
• Financial planning and ownership considerations
• Balancing privacy, independence, and shared spaces
• How developers are adapting to changing demand
• The role of communication in avoiding conflict
• Why AI can’t replace the human side of property decisions

Connect with Elke:

• Email: elke@elkeharder.com
• Phone: 613-794-0560
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elkeharder/

This episode is supported by Meta-Dology — a visualisation methodology helping developers, investors, and project teams communicate ideas clearly using immersive 3D walkthroughs and digital twins before construction begins.

If you’d like to see how this could apply to your project, connect with Glen directly: 

or go to the website: