• Initial Conversation: Connect with a Pod Specialist to explore the perfect Backyard Pod, granny flat, ADU, office pod, home gym, or casita for your property and lifestyle. We’ll explain our streamlined turnkey process, discuss financing, and answer all your questions before scheduling a free site visit.
• Site Visit: Our team assesses your property, maps out the ideal pod or tiny home location, measures for utility hookups, and verifies your existing utility capacity including electrical panel and water meter size.
• Estimate Review: Receive a detailed, transparent estimate covering all costs and site-specific considerations. Together, we finalize your custom pod, granny flat, or office pod design and answer any remaining questions.
• Deposit & Welcome Package: Secure your project with a deposit to lock in pricing. Receive a welcome package featuring color and customization selections as our in-house design team begins crafting your plans.
• Design Meetings: Collaborate with our designers during complimentary meetings to perfect your Backyard Pod’s layout and finishes, whether it’s a home gym, guest suite, or rental unit.
• Permitting or Construction: We handle all permitting if required, or schedule your build kick-off date for non-permitted pods, ensuring a smooth on-site construction process.
• Completion & Warranty: Upon completion, we conduct a final walk-through to ensure your satisfaction. Your warranty coverage begins at this time, giving you peace of mind.

Learn more about our process

All pricing is listed under each pod, granny flat, or ADU description on our website. Simply browse our pod models to see transparent, all-inclusive pricing for your new office pod, home gym, or backyard cottage.

Costs vary based on pod size, model, custom design features, site conditions like terrain and obstacles, utility upgrades, and permitting requirements. We provide detailed line-item estimates so you fully understand your investment.

Additional costs may include electrical panel upgrades, trenching obstacles (trees, patios, concrete), protected tree protection (required by Austin city code), water meter upgrades (for more than 3.5 bathrooms; a 5/8" meter supports up to 3.5 baths), rocky terrain requiring rock sawing, grinder pumps, and slope adjustments. All site-specific items are evaluated during your site visit and clearly listed in your estimate.

For non-permitted pods (under 200 sq ft, no bathroom):

• $500 deposit to start design, including two 30-minute design meetings
• 50% scheduling fee to reserve your build slot
• 25% payment after framing and siding completion
• Final 25% payment at project completion and final walk-through, when your warranty begins

For permitted pods and ADUs:

• $2,500 deposit to start design, including two or three 60-minute design meetings depending on model
• 25% payment before permit submission
• 25% scheduling fee after permit approval
• 25% payment after framing and siding completion
• Final 25% payment at project completion and final walk-through, when your warranty begins

Yes! We partner with trusted lenders specializing in financing pods, granny flats, tiny homes, and accessory dwelling units. Visit our Financing Page to explore flexible financing options tailored to your budget.

Most pods under 200 sq ft without plumbing do not require permits. However, pods over 200 sq ft or those with bathrooms require permits. Our experienced in-house permitting team manages this process to ensure full compliance with local regulations.

• Non-permitted pods: Typically 4 weeks lead time and 6–8 weeks construction, totaling about 3 months from start to finish.
• Permitted pods and ADUs: Permit approval in Austin usually takes 4–6 months, with construction lasting 3–6 months depending on size and complexity. Surrounding municipalities may have shorter permitting timelines.

We coordinate all utility connections, including water, sewer, and electrical hookups. During your site visit, we assess your electrical panel, water meter size, and septic system to ensure they can support your pod or accessory dwelling unit. Any required upgrades are included in your detailed estimate.

The City of Austin requires strict tree protection measures for protected trees, including fencing and mulching around roots. We include these protective measures as line items in your estimate to ensure your project passes inspections and preserves tree health.

Yes! We have specialized equipment and techniques such as rock sawing and slope grading to handle challenging terrain. All related costs are transparently included in your estimate after the site assessment.

Absolutely! Our in-house design team offers complimentary design meetings to tailor your pod’s layout, finishes, and features to your unique needs and style preferences, whether you want a home gym, guest suite, or rental unit.

• Non-permitted pods: Two 30-minute design meetings
• Permitted pods: Two or three 60-minute design meetings depending on the pod model

These meetings ensure your plans are perfect before construction begins.

Most permitted Backyard Pods and ADUs qualify as rental units for long-term stays (30+ days). Short-term rental regulations vary by municipality; we’ll guide you through local rules to maximize your rental income potential.

Absolutely. Many real estate professionals report that adding a backyard pod, ADU, or standalone office pod can increase your property value by 20–30%. In today’s market, buyers are actively searching for homes with a separate office, guest space, or rental unit-making properties without a backyard cottage or accessory dwelling unit less competitive.

Adding a permanent structure typically increases property taxes based on the added value. However, it usually does not trigger a full reassessment of your primary residence. We can help you estimate the tax impact.

Our Backyard Pods, ADUs, and tiny homes are built with durable, high-quality materials designed for low maintenance. Routine inspections of roofing, siding, and utilities, similar to a traditional home, will keep your pod in excellent condition.

Every Backyard Pod, granny flat, or ADU comes with a comprehensive warranty: 1 year bumper-to-bumper, 2 years on major mechanical systems (plumbing, electrical, HVAC), and 10 years on structural components that could cause harm.

Thanks to the new HOME Initiative, most lots in Austin can now have up to three ADUs or accessory dwelling units. Learn more about the HOME Initiative on our blog.

Our pods and ADUs are designed for energy efficiency and sustainability, featuring durable materials and energy-saving fixtures. While we do not currently offer solar power, we are open to working with solar companies to integrate solar solutions into your design.

While our pods are designed as permanent, stick-built structures, some models can be relocated with professional assistance. Contact us if you require a flexible or mobile solution for your property.

Contact us for a free site assessment or personalized consultation. Our expert team is here to guide you every step of the way toward your perfect Backyard Pod, granny flat, or ADU.