Dweller Review
Dweller is a designer, builder, and installer of prefab ADUs based in Portland, Oregon. They offer 6 styles of ADUs, with pre-designed floor plans ranging from 392 square feet to 660 square feet. While they offer reversible floor plans, no substantial customization is available. In terms of design, ADUs from Dweller feature a modern ranch style with overhanging eaves and wide windows. Their exteriors usually include CemBoard plank siding, french/glass doors, slanted galvanized steel roofs, plus pressure treated decking and fencing. Interiors come with quartz countertops, vinyl plank flooring, hardwood cabinets, ceramic tile backsplash, furnishings, Whirlpool kitchen appliances, GE stacked washer/dryers, and energy-efficient heat pumps.
Dweller offers turn-key services, meaning they manage all stages of the project including design, permitting, delivery, installation, site work, and even landscaping for the buyer, though manufacturing is handled by Skyline Champion, a third-party manufacturer, and on-site work is handled by a contractor within Dweller's network. Once the initial paperwork is completed, the entire process can be finished in under 6 months. Because there are limited options for customization and Dweller manages all stages of the project, buyers can be less-involved in the entire process, should they choose to do so.
In addition to offering affordable, standardized ADUs, Dweller’s business model also includes a unique financing option, called their ground lease program. While their ground lease program is not open to all projects, and in fact, they are currently fundraising to support additional builds, eligible buyers are able to place an ADU on their property, which is financed by Dweller and managed by a third party property management service. In return, buyers receive 25% of the rent on the ADU. Once homeowners are able to secure enough funding, they are able to purchase the ADU from Dweller, in which case the homeowner claims full-ownership of the ADU.
Strengths:
Offer turn-key building services, including design, manufacturing, site work, and landscaping
They are in the process of developing an alternative financing product for buyers with insufficient funds to install an ADU on their property
Reasons they might not be for you:
You are looking for a company that allows for greater customization options
You are outside their Oregon operating area
Keep reading to view Dweller reviews and ratings, Dweller pricing and cost info as well as photos, and other company facts. Listen to our interview with Dweller Co-Founder, Patrick Quinton on our podcast, The Prefab Pod.
| Company | Dweller |
|---|---|
| Year Founded | 2016 |
| Website | https://www.dweller.com/ |
| # of Models | 6 |
| Areas Served | Oregon |
| Homes Built | 15 |
| Headquarters | Portland, OR |
| Pricing | $214 - $408 per sqft |
| Reviews | |
| Yelp | No reviews |
| Houzz | No Reviews |
| Creates Custom Plans | No |
