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'Multi Family Living' Gets Trendy As Denver Rent Continues To Skyrocket

By Britt Moreno

DENVER (CBS4) - If three's a crowd, then what about four?

Denver is now the 13th most expensive city in the nation when it comes to rent, and some couples are dealing with this housing issue by inviting a third roommate -- or another couple -- to live with them in their homes. Everyone then splits the cost of rent or the mortgage.

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(credit: CBS)

Newlyweds Sarahkate and Brandan Greely were in a bind when they moved to Denver and realized how expensive homes are.

"Rent is outrageous and it's difficult to buy a house if you don't have a big savings, especially with student loans," Brandan said.

The couple needed to save money and jumped at an offer from their friends. Shannon and Cole Schliep invited the Greeleys to live with them.

The Schlipes are also newlyweds and say having the extra income has "helped (because they) have been able to save" after spending money on their wedding. The four have been living under one roof for almost a year.

Shannon is a real estate agent in town and recognizes the tough housing market.

Living Together
(credit: CBS)

"It's tough for buyers and renters because there is a low inventory of homes. Rental prices have gone through the roof and people are finding it hard to make ends meet," she said.

She speculates this trend will not change anytime soon.

The Denver Metro Association of Realtors calls this trend "Multi Family Living." It says both millennials and baby boomers are leading the trend. Some parents are also moving in with their children and sharing housing costs.

With the money they have saved, the Greelys hope to buy a house soon. For now, both couples continue to maintain the unconventional starts to their marriages.

Sarahkate says they are all fortunate to be close.

"I think a lot of best friends wouldn't be able to live together," she said.

Britt Moreno anchors the CBS4 morning and noon newscasts and is the Wednesday's Child reporter. She loves hearing from viewers. Connect with her on Facebook or Twitter @brittmorenotv.

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