From sketch
to keys.
A typical Alpha Dream project is about ten months from first walk to final punch list. Here's exactly what happens, and when.
- 01
Site walk & conversation
Week 0 — freeWe come out, walk the property, look at the existing drawings (or the lack of them), and talk through what you actually want to live in. No estimate-bot, no upsell. You get a one-page feasibility note within a week.
- 02
Schematic & budget
Weeks 1–4We sketch real options — usually 2 or 3 directions on paper, then a chosen one in 3D. Materials get pulled, ranges get tightened, and you sign off on a not-to-exceed budget before we touch a permit.
- 03
Permits & engineering
Weeks 4–14We handle the city. Structural engineer, Title 24, soils report if needed, plan-check corrections, the works. For most ADUs in the City of LA, Long Beach, Pasadena, and unincorporated LA County we average 8–10 weeks to permit.
- 04
Build
Months 4–10One project superintendent on-site daily. Weekly walk-throughs with you, a shared photo log, and a Friday email so you always know what got done and what's next. We protect the rest of the house like it's ours.
- 05
Punch list & warranty
Final 2 weeks & beyondWe don't disappear at occupancy. Every project gets a 12-month walk-back. Structural & waterproofing carry our 10-year warranty. We answer the phone in year three.
A few things worth saying:
- — We only run 4 projects at a time. That's why a slot books out.
- — We don't do change-order farming. The bid is the bid; surprises come with options, not invoices.
- — Our crews are W-2, not contracted out. The same people start your project and finish it.