That downstairs bedroom. The Florida Room off the side. The finished space with its own entrance. The extra living area you’ve been using for storage.
To you, it may simply feel like more house than you need. To the right buyer, however, it could be the feature that moves your St. Augustine home to the top of the list.
More buyers are looking for homes that can comfortably accommodate multiple generations, long-term guests, remote work, or the ability to host short-term rentals. In a market where flexibility matters, a layout that offers both connection and privacy can be a major selling point.
Multigenerational Living Is Creating Real Buyer Demand
A multigenerational household typically includes three or more generations living under one roof. According to a 2026 Realtor.com analysis, nearly 4 million owner-occupied U.S. households were multigenerational in 2024.
The trend is also showing up in buyer behavior. Nationwide, multigenerational listings received 13.5% more online views than standard listings in 2025, yet sold in essentially the same amount of time: a median of 59 days.
The numbers are even more relevant for Northeast Florida sellers. In the broader Jacksonville market, multigenerational homes were listed at a median price of $619,000 in 2025. They attracted 33.3% more page views than standard homes and carried an 11.6% higher asking price per square foot.
That does not mean every spare bedroom automatically adds a premium. However, it does mean buyers are actively searching for homes with flexible, hard-to-find features.
What Makes a St. Augustine Home Multigenerational-Friendly?
You do not necessarily need a fully built-out in-law suite. Buyers may see value in any space that allows someone to live comfortably while maintaining a sense of independence.
Some of the most desirable features are a first-floor bedroom and full bathroom or a separate entrance. Second living areas with a kitchenette or wet bar are also popular. We’ve seen homes in St. Augustine Beach with elevators that make smaller footprints attractive for older generations. These features can be especially appealing in St. Augustine’s coastal neighborhoods. On Anastasia Island, flexible guest space can help a home serve buyers with changing mobility and lifestyle needs. In Vilano Beach, a detached guest space may give a property the versatility buyers have struggled to find elsewhere.
Even if the space is currently an office, gym, media room, or storage area, the right presentation can help buyers see what it could become. The Newcomer Group has plenty of experience with staging homes. We work closely with sellers to make sure their home is presented in the best light.
Could Extra Space Offer Short-Term Rental Potential?
For some buyers, a private guest suite or separate entrance may suggest another possibility: a future short-term rental. In coastal areas such as Vilano Beach, St. Augustine Beach, and Anastasia Island, flexible accommodations can make a property more appealing to buyers who want space for visitors now and potential rental income later.
It is imperative that “rental potential” is marketed carefully. Eligibility depends on the exact location, zoning, permits, and any HOA or condominium rules. Requirements also change by jurisdiction. When verified, short-term rental flexibility can add another compelling layer to the home’s selling story.
Rest assured, all of our agents conduct the appropriate research to make sure all advertising when listing a home is accurate.
How Sellers Can Turn Extra Space Into a Stronger Selling Story
While the value comes in having the space, it is key that it is marketed correctly.
Professional photography should clearly show how the areas connect while also highlighting privacy. A floor plan can make separate bedroom wings, exterior entrances, and additional living spaces easier to understand. Thoughtful staging can turn an overlooked bonus room into a welcoming guest suite or second lounge.
Your listing description should also use the phrases buyers are actually searching for, such as “multigenerational living,” “guest suite,” “first-floor bedroom,” “private entrance,” “flex space,” and “second living area.” These details help a listing appear in relevant searches and give buyers a reason to stop scrolling.
Could Your Home Be More Valuable Than You Think?
Thinking about selling your St. Augustine home? The Newcomer Group can help you identify its most marketable features, understand its current value, and build a local selling strategy designed to attract the right buyers. Let’s talk about what your home could command in today’s market.
