Choosing to Upsize for Family Gatherings: A Grandparent's Journey

In an era when smaller homes are a popular trend among retirees, Doug Beachy and his spouse, Jamie, chose the opposite route. Opting to expand their living space, they invested in a vacation home large enough to accommodate their entire family, which consists of four adult children, all married, and their 16 grandchildren. With grandchild ages ranging from under one year old to twelve, maintaining family unity is of utmost importance.

As the grandchildren began arriving, Doug and Jamie's children moved closer to their Cincinnati home. Although their residence spans roughly 4,000 square feet, managing large family gatherings was becoming cumbersome. Despite designated play areas for the children, space was insufficient when everyone gathered, resulting in chaotic get-togethers.

Previously, the Beachys orchestrated family trips by leasing expansive beach homes or secluded cabins in Ohio, an endeavor they managed biennially due to scheduling challenges and high costs. The endeavor consumed significant resources for what amounted to a mere week of family bonding.

The Allure of Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island, nestled in the Lowcountry of South Carolina near Savannah, Georgia, has long been a beloved escape for the Beachys. Known for its extensive 12-mile stretch of sandy shores, the location offers an idyllic backdrop for family vacations. The island's scenic beauty and variety of activities make it an ideal spot for ultimate relaxation and enjoyment.

Given the high property costs on Hilton Head Island, with median prices at nearly $800,000 and some listings reaching $10 million, acquiring a house was not initially feasible for Doug. Still, with retirement not in the immediate future, Doug sought out alternative ownership models that would allow them to frequent the area.

After discovering the concept of shared ownership online, the Beachys settled on a 5,000-square-foot home through Pacaso, featuring six suite-like bedrooms furnished with king-sized beds, expansive closets, and ensuite bathrooms, ideal for their expansive family. They coveted a large kitchen to host meals, which comfortably fits nearly two dozen people and offers breathtaking ocean views.

Why Co-Ownership Works for Us

The purchase involved owning an eighth of a property valued at more than $5 million, wherein Doug and Jamie contributed a considerable initial payment. Unlike a timeshare, which might seem similar at first glance, this arrangement excludes hidden charges and dodgy fees, offering long-term investment potential over depreciating timeshare models.

This shared property scheme alleviated fears associated with acquiring a second home, such as upkeep responsibilities and hefty association fees. Given this model's benefits, Doug feels assured sharing this oasis with his loved ones represents the right decision for this life chapter.

Revitalizing Family Time

Central to the vacation home's practicality is the concierge-style services provided by Pacaso. With housekeeping, linens, basic supplies, and more taken care of, the family can solely focus on gathering provisions for their culinary endeavors, facilitated by the numerous talented cooks amongst them.

Their annual 44-day allocation sees nearly complete utilization, with flexible attendance allowing for visits as family members' schedules permit. These gatherings are a regular occurrence twice yearly, with longer stays during summer school breaks, which proves particularly rewarding.

The younger generation eagerly anticipates these reunions, cherishing time spent with their cousins. Amenities, from a private swimming pool to a trove of games, cater to all ages and foster shared experiences such as beach outings, cycling adventures, and casual sports like pickleball, ensuring the retention of precious, shared family memories.