Tips and advice for a successful renovation
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Design Ideas
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Remodeling Advice
Remodeling Advice
A granny flat (ADU) in Orange County typically costs $120,000 to $150,000 for a garage conversion or $180,000 to $400,000 for a detached new build, at roughly $350 to $400 per square foot. These units add rental income or space for family, and California law makes...
Renovating a rental property is essential to stay competitive and attract great tenants. However, it is not something you want to be doing too often. Renovating can get expensive and time-consuming, so it's crucial to prioritize the right projects at the right time....
If you’re looking to get the biggest impact out of your home renovation, the kitchen is the best place to start. Kitchen remodels can be large-scale projects, especially if you’re changing the layout of the space. Fortunately, there are plenty of skilled general...
Renovating with kids in the house means planning around safety and routine: seal off work zones, control dust, keep tools and materials out of reach, maintain a usable kitchen and bathroom, and schedule noisy work around nap and school times. Here are tips for...
As we begin to age, we start looking at things from a different perspective, a wiser set of eyes. It seems as though every decision we make is governed by what is more comfortable and practical, rather than flashy or fun. We are less spontaneous, and instead more...
You may need to fire your remodeling contractor if they repeatedly miss deadlines without cause, do poor or unpermitted work, stop showing up, demand payments ahead of progress, or violate the contract. Before you do anything, document the problems in writing and read...
A second-story addition in Los Angeles typically costs $400 to $600 per square foot, more than a single-story addition because it involves reinforcing the existing foundation and framing. It’s one of the best ways to add space without giving up your yard, but it’s a...
A garage conversion in Los Angeles typically costs $120,000 to $200,000 or more in 2026: about $120,000 to $150,000 for a basic conversion, $150,000 to $200,000 with upgrades, and $200,000-plus for a large or high-end build. It’s one of the more affordable ways to add...
No renovation is perfect; even great projects have small flaws, delays, or surprises, and setting realistic expectations up front makes the process far less stressful. What matters is hiring a solid contractor, communicating clearly, and focusing on the issues that...
Dishonest contractors reveal themselves through common tactics: demanding large upfront payments, no written contract, bids far below others, unlicensed work, pressure to decide fast, and vanishing mid-project. Knowing the red flags protects your money. Here’s how to...
For first-time buyers, California’s ADU laws make buying a home with an ADU, or adding one, attractive: ADUs up to 1,200 square feet, 60-day approval, and rental income that can help with the mortgage. Here’s what first-time buyers should know about California ADU...
Building an ADU above your garage in Los Angeles typically costs $200,000 to $350,000 for a 350 to 500 square foot unit in 2026, depending on your contractor, the materials you choose, and how much structural work the existing garage needs. Because these units are...
I should have known better. No matter how much experience you have, it's still easy to make stupid home renovation mistakes. I’ve been in construction for over 15 years. My focus has been helping owners and clients avoid the common pitfalls of the industry. My job is...
Senior Preparing Food in a Granny Flat ADU | Credit: Getty Images Is an ADU a Good Idea For Seniors and Retirees in Los Angeles? You may have heard: the population of seniors and retirees is expected to surge in the near future. Over the next decade,...
A kitchen remodel is a common home improvement project. To get the most out of this renovation, there are certain key things you should focus on. For instance, installing the right kitchen cabinets can go a long way in adding style and functionality to your space. To...
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