Blog
Insights on residential design, ADUs, Title 24 compliance, and construction trends in California.
We write about the topics California homeowners ask us about most — from understanding Title 24 energy code requirements to choosing between an ADU and JADU. Each article is written by our design and permitting team to help you navigate the building process with clarity and confidence. Whether you're planning a garage conversion, a detached ADU, or a home addition, our guides break down what matters for your permit and your budget.
October 8, 2026
Owner Builder vs Hiring a General Contractor: Pros and Cons for Your Home Construction Project
Should you manage your ADU, addition, or remodel as an owner-builder or hire a general contractor? Compare costs, risks, and responsibilities — with CSLB guidance.
Read full article
September 29, 2026
Why California ADU Permits Get Rejected in 2026: The 14 Most Common Plan Check Corrections
The 14 most common California ADU plan check corrections, sheet by sheet, plus a pre-submission checklist to get your permit approved on the first try.
Read full article
July 27, 2026
California ADU Laws 2025: What Homeowners Need to Know
Plain-English guide to California's 2025 ADU law changes — height limits, setback waivers, front-yard rules, HOA limits, and if your property qualifies.
Read full article
June 23, 2026
ADU Financing in California: HELOCs, Construction Loans & CalHFA Grants (2026 Guide)
Compare every California ADU financing option — HELOCs, cash-out refi, construction loans, RenoFi, and the CalHFA $40,000 ADU Grant Program. Updated for 2026.
Read full article
April 28, 2026
748 Sq Ft Attached ADU in Newark, CA — A Real Owner-Builder Story (Family-Focused)
Real Newark, CA owner-builder ADU case study. How a planned garage conversion + addition was reclassified as a new detached ADU — and why we pivoted to a 748 sq ft attached ADU for family living.
Read full article
March 4, 2026
749 Sq Ft ADU in Fremont, CA: Design, Layout, and Permitting Process
Case study of a 749 sq ft, 2-bedroom detached ADU in Fremont. Learn about the design process, layout decisions, window design discussions, and the 4-month permitting timeline.
Read full article
February 25, 2026
Castro Valley ADU Case Study: 998 Sq Ft, 3-Bedroom ADU Approved in Alameda County
Real case study of a 998 sq ft, 3-bedroom ADU approved in Castro Valley, Alameda County in ~4 months. See the full permitting timeline from contract to building permit.
Read full article
February 21, 2026
ADU Design & Permitting in San Jose: Timeline, Cost, and Process (Simple Guide)
Complete guide to ADU design and permitting in San Jose. Learn realistic timelines, costs, and the step-by-step process from idea to building permit.
Read full articleFebruary 19, 2026
CF1R vs CF2R vs CF3R: Simple Explanation for Homeowners (And Which One You Actually Need First)
Understand the difference between CF1R, CF2R, and CF3R Title 24 energy compliance forms. Learn which one you need first to get your California building permit.
Read full article
February 18, 2026
Heat Pump Water Heaters and Title 24 Requirements in 2025+: A Complete California Guide
Complete guide to heat pump water heaters and California Title 24 compliance in 2025+. Learn requirements, costs, rebates, and common mistakes to avoid.
Read full article
January 16, 2026
Prescriptive vs Performance Title 24: What's the Difference and Which One Do You Need?
Learn the difference between prescriptive and performance Title 24 compliance methods for ADUs, additions, and remodels in California.
Read full articleJanuary 5, 2026
ADU vs JADU in California: Cost & Permit Comparison (2025)
Compare ADU vs JADU costs, permit rules, size limits, and Title 24 requirements side by side for California homeowners.
Read full article