How ADUS & Multigenerational Homes are reshaping Real Estate in Camas, Vancouver & Portland

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In today’s real estate market across Camas, Vancouver, and Portland, flexibility is everything—and homes with Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) or multigenerational layouts are leading the way. Think of these properties like your favorite multitool 🔧: not only do they handle the basics, they adapt to whatever life throws your way.


🔍 What’s Driving the Demand?

There’s a real shift happening in how people live, invest, and prioritize space—especially here in the Pacific Northwest. More and more buyers are looking for properties that offer:

✅ Room for extended household members
✅ Flexible work-from-home space
✅ Potential for long-term or short-term rental income
✅ Privacy with proximity

In Camas and Vancouver, ADUs—whether it’s a detached backyard cottage, a daylight basement suite, or a converted garage apartment—are offering homeowners extra space with serious return potential. Over in Portland, where ADU ordinances are well-established, demand for homes with existing second units is surging.

Multigenerational homes with features like dual kitchens, separate entrances, or lock-off suites provide a smart solution for modern living. Whether it’s adult children returning home, older relatives needing support, or homeowners planning ahead for future care, these layouts provide the comfort of shared living with needed separation.


⚡ Homes Are Selling Faster—and for More

ADU-friendly and multigenerational properties are outperforming standard single-family homes in Clark County and the greater Portland metro area. Recent data shows:

📈 Homes with permitted ADUs can sell up to 35% faster
💰 They can earn 20–30% more than similar homes without one

The demand is strong because the use cases are diverse. Whether it’s extra income from a long-term tenant in Vancouver or a private guest space in Camas, buyers are looking for homes that work harder for them.


💸 What Kind of Return Can You Expect?

Adding an ADU to your property in Camas or Portland could generate a 50% to 100% return on investment over time, depending on location, build quality, and local rental demand. In fact, many homeowners report that the added value and cash flow from these secondary units help offset mortgage costs or provide a financial safety net.

And it’s not just about income—properties with these added features also tend to see more attention when it’s time to sell. In a competitive market, standing out matters.


🧠 Final Takeaway

ADUs and multigenerational layouts aren’t just trends—they’re smart real estate strategies, especially in high-demand markets like Camas, Vancouver, and Portland. Whether you’re investing for rental income, planning for long-term living needs, or simply adding versatility to your property, these home features are giving sellers the edge and giving buyers more reasons to say yes.

In a time when housing needs are anything but one-size-fits-all, these flexible spaces offer the kind of adaptability—and value—that today’s buyers are searching for. 🏠💡