Tips and advice for a successful renovation
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Remodeling Advice
AB 2533 lets California homeowners legalize an unpermitted ADU or garage conversion built before January 1, 2020 without penalties, fines, or impact fees, as long as it meets basic health and safety standards. It uses a focused safety checklist rather than a full...
What happens if a worker gets injured while renovating your kitchen or building your ADU? For California homeowners, the answer used to be unsettling - without proper workers' compensation coverage, you could be liable for medical bills, lost wages, and lawsuits....
Replacing your roof in California isn't as simple as picking what looks good. Between wildfire zones, intense sun exposure, strict energy codes, and tightening insurance requirements, the wrong roofing material can cost you thousands, or leave you unable to insure...
Wildfires don’t have to reach your block to damage your home. In many cases, the bigger threat is wind-driven embers. They land in leaves, corners, vents, and gaps. Then they ignite whatever is easiest to burn. That’s the idea behind home hardening. It’s not about...
Pre-approved ADU plans are ready-made designs a city has already reviewed for code compliance, letting you skip much of the plan-check process and get to permit faster and cheaper. Many California cities, including Los Angeles, offer them, though site-specific items...
Creating a beautiful yard in an area with dry conditions doesn't have to be a struggle. By embracing sustainable landscaping, you can design a stunning outdoor space that conserves water and thrives even during long dry spells. The key is to work with your...
Wallpaper is back in style, with bold patterns, textured grasscloth, and removable peel-and-stick options leading the trend, especially in accent walls, powder rooms, and dining rooms. It’s a fast way to add personality to a space. Here’s how wallpaper is making a...
Bold colors are replacing all-neutral interiors, with deep greens, warm terracottas, moody blues, and saturated accent walls leading 2026 design. Used thoughtfully, bold color adds personality without overwhelming a space. Here’s how the shift away from neutrals works...
Planning a home addition is one of the most effective ways to create more living space, boost comfort, and increase your property’s value. Whether you’re considering adding a bathroom, new bedroom, or second-story expansion, understanding the different types of home...
Our first guide, How to Make a New Home Look Vintage, was a hit, so we’re back with fresh ideas that layer character without feeling themed. Think of this as Part 2: new moves that work alongside the originals and make your place feel warm, storied, and genuinely...
Finding the right contractor can be stressful. GreatBuildz makes it simple: our free service matches you with thoroughly vetted, reliable contractors and supports you from first call to final walkthrough. Below you’ll find where we operate in California, how to check...
Tile kitchen countertops are having a comeback for their retro look and low material cost, but before you jump on the trend, know the downsides: grout lines stain and harbor bacteria, the surface is uneven for prep, and tiles can crack. For many kitchens, quartz or...
Mid-century modern homes, popular from the 1940s to 1960s, are defined by clean lines, flat or low-sloped roofs, large windows, open floor plans, and a strong connection to the outdoors. Natural materials, warm colors, and functional design are hallmarks. Here’s a...
Craftsman-style homes are defined by low-pitched gabled roofs, wide eaves with exposed rafters, front porches with tapered columns, and warm natural materials like wood and stone. Remodeling one means honoring those details while updating systems and layout, ideally...
The Foothill Catalog is a resource to help Altadena homeowners rebuild after the Eaton Fire, offering pre-designed, streamlined home plans and guidance to make rebuilding faster and easier. Here’s what the Foothill Catalog is and how it helps Altadena’s recovery....
Our free service personally matches you with the best pre-screened pros, ensuring you’ll find a great contractor and enjoy a stress-free remodel.