One of the most common questions we get: how long does this actually take?

The short answer is 60–90 days from your first call to a finished, livable unit — assuming a straightforward lot and a smooth permit process. Here's how that timeline breaks down, phase by phase, and where delays typically come from.

Week 1–2: Property Evaluation and Planning

What happens: We review your lot — zoning, setbacks, utility access, site conditions, and any local restrictions. We confirm eligibility, recommend a model and foundation type, and provide a detailed project quote.

What you do: Book the free evaluation, review the quote, ask your questions. Most clients decide within a week of receiving their quote.

Where delays happen: Clients who wait to schedule the evaluation lose this time. Book it as soon as you're seriously considering the project — the evaluation is free and no-commitment.

Week 2–4: Permit Application

What happens: We prepare and submit your permit application package. This includes site plan, floor plan, elevations, Title 24 energy documentation, and structural calculations. Most of these documents are pre-prepared for our certified units — your contribution is signing the application.

Typical city review time: 21–45 days. Many California cities now offer over-the-counter permits for pre-approved prefab plans — some approve same-day.

What you do: Sign and submit the application. Respond promptly to any city requests for additional information (rare with our documentation package, but it happens).

Where delays happen: Cities that don't offer pre-approved plans have longer review times. Incomplete applications get kicked back. We handle the documentation — respond quickly if the city has questions.

Week 3–6: Site Preparation (Runs Concurrently with Permit Review)

What happens: While your permit is in review, we begin site prep work that doesn't require a building permit — grading, access preparation, temporary utility staging.

Once the permit is issued, full site work begins: foundation installation, utility trench work, and connection preparation.

Typical duration: 1–3 weeks depending on site complexity.

What you do: Clear the site of any obstacles (vehicles, existing structures, vegetation). Confirm access route for delivery truck.

Where delays happen: Unexpected subsurface conditions (rock, high water table), utility conflicts with existing infrastructure, or HOA approval processes (if applicable).

Week 5–7: Factory Production

What happens: Your unit enters our production queue. Most standard models are built in 10–14 production days. Interior finishing, quality inspection, and HCD certification review happen before the unit leaves our facility.

What you do: Confirm your specification choices early — finish selections, options packages, and any upgrades. Changes during production can delay your unit.

Where delays happen: Late spec confirmations push your production start date. High demand periods can extend production queues — this is the one area where scheduling early helps most.

Week 7–9: Delivery and Placement

What happens: Your unit is transported to your lot on a flatbed. Delivery day is typically a half-day operation — the unit arrives in the morning and is placed on your foundation by early afternoon.

Once placed, mechanical connections begin: electrical hookup, water and sewer connection, HVAC commissioning.

What you do: Be available on delivery day. Confirm your site is clear and access is unobstructed.

Where delays happen: Permitting issues that haven't been fully resolved, utility connections that require additional city inspection (standard in most jurisdictions, usually 1–3 day turnaround).

Week 9–10: Final Inspection and Certificate of Occupancy

What happens: The city inspects the completed installation, connections, and interior. For our certified units with complete documentation, final inspections are typically smooth. Once approved, the city issues a Certificate of Occupancy.

What you do: Be available for the inspection appointment. Have your permit documentation accessible.

Where delays happen: Inspection scheduling backlogs in busy cities (sometimes 1–2 week wait for an inspection date). Rare documentation issues — we handle these.

Move-In: Day 60–70

At this point, your unit is fully permitted, connected, and livable. You can move in, move someone in, or list it for rent immediately.

From the day you book your evaluation to the day your unit is ready: 60–70 days on a smooth project, 90 days on a more complex one.

Ready to start the clock? Book your free property evaluation. We'll confirm your timeline estimate based on your specific lot and local permit office.