The Preferred Journal
Straight talk on building & remodeling in LA.
Practical guides on cost, permitting, design, and process — written by the team that does the work. No jargon, no upsell.
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Additions & ADUs
Can I Add a Second Story to My House in Los Angeles? Cost and Permits (2026)
Yes — most LA single-family homes can add a second story. Expect roughly $300–$600 per square foot, LADBS permits, structural engineering, and a 9–18 month end-to-end timeline. Here’s the process.
Additions & ADUs
Best ADU Builders in Los Angeles (2026): Rankings, Costs, and How to Choose
A 2026 guide to the best ADU builders in Los Angeles: the rankings, what they charge, and how their pricing models compare.
Additions & ADUs
ADU vs. addition: which adds more value to your LA home?
Two ways to add square footage, two very different returns. Here is how we help owners choose.
Additions & ADUs
Building on a hillside lot: what adds time and cost
Grading, caissons, and access — why a view lot carries a premium before the first wall goes up.