The number of young adults that continue to live at home with their parents has increased by a quarter since records began in1996. According to the
Office for National Statistics 3.3 million 20- to 34-year-olds lived with their parents in 2013.
These figures coincide with high house prices relative to incomes and increased youth unemployment forcing many to remain in the family home.
The
ONS data showed that people were most likely to live with their parents in their early 20s, with 49% of 20- to 24-year-olds in the family home, compared to 21% of 25- to 29-year-olds, and 8% of 34-year-olds. The percentage of the youngest age group has increased most noticeably, rising from 42% in 2008.
In 1996, the typical first-time buyer had to raise 2.7 times their salary to afford to buy a home, but by 2013 the figure stood at 4.47. This, combined with stricter mortgage criteria and rising private rents, is likely to have driven more young adults back to the family home.
With lenders now demanding 25% deposit, many young first time buyers are staying with their parents to boost their savings. This puts additional pressure on the family dynamic as parents deal with full-nest syndrome. Here are some top tips for surviving living with your all-adult family:
Establish protocol
According to
Cosmopolitan magazine Before you even unpack your bags, negotiate
all the house rules — from chores you’re supposed to do to policies for late nights out and sleepovers — and follow the plan.
Avoid the child–parent trap by contributing financially. When you pay your way — even partially — your parents will be less likely to nag you
. If you’re broke, set up their computers, cook, or find another way to pitch in.
And The
Guardian advises to get a lock, don't whinge and put some bromide on your bran flakes – as the starting point to and easier life with mum and dad.
'How to live with your parents as an adult ' from
wikiHow - with some great tips on making your enforced time at home more bearable for you and your family.
