Multigenerational living is growing in popularity. National Association of Realtors (NAR) reports that in 2024, 17% of homes purchased had a multigen set-up, up from 14% in 2013. Family and housing dynamics are ever evolving. The rise in multigenerational home buying is driven by the need for practical, economically smart and supportive living arrangements, in a time of economic uncertainty. Multigen homes are increasingly demanded. Whether you call it an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU), mother-in-law suite, carriage house or casita, I believe they are a good buy.
Would it be convenient to live next to your parents and have a built-in caretaker for your children, while you work? Or maybe you have kids that left home, but are now facing the crunch of inflation and an expensive housing market, looking to move back home. Do you need nanny or au pair quarters? House Hacking to have someone help pay your mortgage, also comes to mind when I think of options for use.
In their 2025 Home Buyers and Sellers Generational Trends Report, NAR also discusses how 21% of Gen X buyers (ages 45-59), 15% of younger boomers (ages 60-69), and 12% of older millennials (ages 35-44) purchased multigenerational properties.
Builders are aware of the trends and are building new construction multigenerational homes in many Denver area communities including Aurora, Castle Pines / The Canyons, Castle Rock, Denver / Central Park, Elizabeth, Erie, Firestone, Littleton / Sterling Ranch, Parker
ADU legislation is ever evolving in Colorado, and zoning laws are generally becoming more friendly to those wanting to add one to their properties in existing city neighborhoods. Denver allows ADU’s to be built in backyards throughout the city. Littleton City Council just voted June 2025 to allow them in Littleton, however there is a potential referendum coming to the fall ballot which may change that in existing neighborhoods. Other suburban areas are still in discussion as to whether they will allow them or not.
I recently sold a home in Erie’s Flatiron Meadows neighborhood, to a family moving to Colorado from out of state. They decided on a Lennar NextGen model with a built-in private suite to be able to house the grandparents & other family members, for long stretches when they come to visit. They’ve commented since the purchase; how convenient this new home has been to keep their family connected.
I hosted an Open House in a great home in Denver’s Central Park neighborhood, with a Carriage House studio apartment above the garage, in the back yard. Pictured above. Such a great home design with Carriage House, showcased in this video below. A desirable set-up for many, this home went under contract the first weekend it was listed –Grand Central Park Residence with Carriage House – 6 bed / 6 bath 4,716 sf – $1,299,000 .
If ADUs are important in your home search, I’m happy to help guide you to the right set-up for your needs. Let’s talk. Reach Realtor Megan Van Eldik, Broker Associate, Charming Colorado Properties at Camber Realty at (303)946-6007
*Pictured, Grand Central Park Residence with Carriage House - Central Park Denver - 2502 Alton St. Denver, CO 80238, Listed by Jennifer Niederhauser, Camber Realty