Your ADU, step by step

From first click to move-in.

Building a backyard home is a big step, so we made the path clear. Here's exactly what happens at each stage, who does what, and how long it takes.

PlanDesignBuildLive
  1. 1

    Plan

    Check your eligibility

    Start with our free 2-minute checker to confirm your lot can host an ADU and learn the rules where you live. There's no signup and no obligation, just a clear read on where you stand.

    About 2 minutesCheck eligibility
  2. 2

    Design

    Design your ADU in the studio

    Choose a model, then configure your exterior, interior, and upgrades, from siding and roof to flooring, cabinetry, countertops, and paint. The price updates live at every step, so you're always in control of the budget.

    An afternoon, at your paceOpen the studio
  3. 3

    Design

    Lock your fixed-price proposal

    Save your configuration and our team confirms feasibility for your exact lot, finalizes your permit-ready plan set, and turns your design into a fixed-price proposal, the number you lock in is the number you pay.

    Roughly 1–2 weeks
  4. 4

    Permit

    Permitting & approvals

    We submit your permit-ready plans to the city and manage the review. In Colorado, qualifying ADUs clear administrative review in a matter of weeks; in New Braunfels and our other Texas cities, your plans follow the local permit process. We keep it moving so you don't have to navigate city hall alone.

    Varies by city
  5. 5

    Build

    We build it

    Site prep, foundation, and stick-built construction happen on site with our crews and trusted subcontractors, a typical ADU Nation Builders goes up in about 10–12 weeks. Want to see exactly how it comes together? Watch our stage-by-stage build simulator.

    About 10–12 weeksSee how it's built
  6. 6

    Live

    Move in, backed by warranty

    After final inspections and a walkthrough, we hand you the keys. Your finished backyard home is ready for family, tenants, or whatever comes next, and it's backed by our warranty, so you can settle in with peace of mind.

    Move-in ready

Step one takes two minutes.

See if your lot qualifies, then start designing whenever you're ready.