Multifamily Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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multifamily

[หŒmสŒltiหˆfรฆmili ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

housing type

The term 'multifamily' refers to housing units that accommodate multiple separate households. Multifamily properties typically include apartments, townhouses, and condominiums, where individual units are contained within a single building or a group of buildings. This type of housing is characterized by shared amenities and common areas, providing resources for residents such as pools, gyms, and recreational spaces. Multifamily homes are popular in urban environments due to their ability to provide affordable living options while maximizing land use.

Synonyms

apartment, condominium, townhouse.

Examples of usage

  • The new multifamily development will include over 200 units.
  • Investing in multifamily properties can generate steady rental income.
  • Multifamily homes often attract young professionals.
  • The city is focusing on creating more multifamily housing to address the housing shortage.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Real Estate

  • Multifamily homes can be an investment opportunity for landlords, providing rental income from multiple units.
  • The demand for multifamily housing has surged in cities due to increased population and a shortage of affordable single-family homes.
  • Investors often see multifamily properties as less risky because they can diversify their income sources across multiple renters.

Society

  • Living in multifamily units promotes a sense of community, as families share space and resources.
  • Multifamily housing can support diverse populations, often serving as homes for various cultural, racial, and income groups.
  • These living spaces encourage social interaction and can reduce isolation among residents.

Architecture

  • Multifamily buildings often feature shared amenities like laundry rooms, pools, or playgrounds to encourage community interaction.
  • Architectural designs for multifamily homes vary widely, from modern high-rises to cozy duplexes, reflecting different living styles.
  • Urban planners design multifamily housing to maximize land use while providing necessary amenities for residents.

Origin of 'multifamily'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'multifamily' combines 'multi,' meaning 'many,' and 'family,' indicating a group of people living together.
  • Multifamily structures began gaining popularity in urban areas in the early 20th century as cities expanded.
  • Terms like 'duplex' and 'triplex' are specific types of multifamily buildings, referring to two or three homes in one building.

The word 'multifamily' is composed of two parts: 'multi-' and 'family.' The prefix 'multi-' originates from the Latin word 'multus,' meaning 'many' or 'much.' It is commonly used in the English language to indicate several or multiple instances of a noun that follows it. The word 'family' has its roots in the Latin term 'familia,' which referred to a household or the basic unit of society comprising parents and their children along with other relatives. The term 'multifamily' began to gain traction in the mid-20th century as urbanization increased, leading to a heightened demand for housing that could accommodate several families in one structure, thus promoting efficient living and zoning practices. Over time, the concept has evolved, paralleling shifts in societal norms around living arrangements, particularly in metropolitan areas where affordability and space constraints continue to shape housing development. Today, the multifamily housing market has significant implications for economic investments, urban planning, and housing demographics.