HomeWiP Blog
Practical advice on planning, budgeting, and building a backyard home — from first idea to final permit.
We built a decision tool, then stress-tested it on four real Bay Area situations. Here's what it found.
Blog
Guides on costs, permits, financing, and floor plans — plus stories from real ADU builds.
California's AB 2533 lets you legalize a pre-2020 unpermitted ADU, but the burden of proof is on you. Here's exactly where to look.
See exactly how big 1000 square feet (1000 sq ft) really is, room by room, with dimensions, comparisons, and ADU floor plan ideas to match.
A complete step-by-step guide to ADU construction, from first consultation and permits to costs, build stages, and final move-in day.
Everything you need to choose an ADU plan, from 200 to 1,000 sq ft ready-to-permit floor plans to design tips and the permitting process.
What buying a modular home really involves: the six phases from design to install, plus how to avoid losing money and vet your builder.
How to build an ADU above a garage: costs, structural and permit considerations, layout ideas, and whether it is right for your lot.
What granny pods are, what they cost, and how these backyard units give aging parents independence with safety and accessibility close to home.
A quick, smart checklist for reviewing your construction contract: scope, payment terms, change orders, and the clauses that protect you.
The most popular ADU designs in 2026: modern, traditional, and compact styles, with layout ideas to fit your lot, budget, and goals.
See how big 400 square feet really is, with smart ADU floor plans, design ideas, and tips to make a compact 400 sq ft home feel spacious.
