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A photorealistic image of a Southern California residential lot subdivided into six smaller lots. Each lot features a modern, small home with a clean design, set in a sunny, landscaped environment with a clear blue sky. The image visually demonstrates how a large lot can be divided for small housing development under SB 684, with natural boundaries and an urban infill feel.

SB 684: Streamlining Multifamily Development in CA

On a narrow lot in Pasadena, a local couple stands amid overgrown grass imagining a cluster of cottages that could soon rise where a single aging duplex once stood. For years, they were warned that turning this parcel into a small housing development would mean endless city council meetings, months of paperwork, and hefty fees. […]

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Individuals working together on a reconstruction project in Los Angeles, sorting materials and discussing plans.

Step-by-Step Guide to Qualifying for a Like-for-Like Rebuild in Los Angeles

If you’ve decided that a like-for-like rebuild is the right approach for you, it’s important to follow the proper steps to qualify and streamline your project. Los Angeles County has outlined an expedited process for fire victims, and being prepared will help you take full advantage of it. Below is a step-by-step guide for homeowners

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Expedited Permits for Like-for-Like Rebuild: Everything You Need To Know

Like-for-Like Rebuilds After the 2025 Los Angeles Wildfires: A Comprehensive Guide

In the wake of the devastating January 2025 Los Angeles wildfires, thousands of families are now facing the daunting task of rebuilding their homes. Local officials have introduced measures to help homeowners rebuild faster by allowing “like-for-like” rebuilds – essentially reconstructing the same house that was lost, with minor updates. Nearly 3,000 houses were destroyed

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Alt Text: “Father hugging his child at sunset with mountains in the background, symbolizing hope and resilience after the 2025 wildfires. Text overlay reads: ‘New Relief Grant for Wildfire Victims: LA County Household Grant.’ Logos of Los Angeles County and partnering organizations are displayed at the bottom. ydsarch.com branding is included.”

LA County Household Relief Grant: Financial Support for 2025 Wildfire Victims

Listen to this episode The 2025 Eaton and Palisades fires have profoundly impacted Los Angeles County, displacing numerous families and devastating communities. Amidst this adversity, stories of resilience emerge, highlighting the community’s strength and the critical support available through the LA County Household Relief Grant. Walter and Yalda Seace, for instance, longtime residents of Altadena,

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Altadena, Calif. (Feb. 2, 2025) - The US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) arrives in Altadena, CA to begin Phase 2 of Personal Property Debris Removal (PPDR) at a school that was destroyed by the Eaton Fire.

Corps of Engineers Begins Phase 2 of Debris Removal in Los Angeles Wildfire Recovery

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has officially begun Phase 2 of wildfire debris removal in Los Angeles County, marking a critical step in the region’s recovery efforts. The first sites to undergo clearing are two schools in the Pasadena Unified School District, where crews will remove hazardous debris to ensure a safe path forward

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Homes that burned along the Pacific Coast Highway during the Palisades Fire in Malibu, California. MediaNews Group/Orange County Register via Getty Images/MediaNews Group via Getty Images

Access Passes for Palisades Residents and the Reopening of PCH

Pacific Palisades’ residents and authorized contractors seeking to return to affected neighborhoods must obtain an access pass at the UCLA Disaster Recovery Center parking structure or the West LA Civic Center. Passes can be obtained daily from 10 AM to 5 PM at both locations. Additionally, as of today, all of Pacific Coast Highway is open, with

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A newspaper clipping with the words "Interest rate cuts" lies on top of a pile of US dollar bills. Benjamin Franklin's portrait is visible on a $100 bill.

The Fed’s Interest Rate Cut and What it Means for Your Mortgage and Future Home Projects

The Fed’s interest rate cut sparks cautious optimism in the housing market. Lower mortgage rates could make building a new home or an ADU, or undertaking a renovation, more affordable. Now is the time to start planning your dream project.

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An backyard home or accessory dwelling unit photo with YDS Architects and City of Long Beach logo

Long Beach Empowers Homeowners with Interest-Free Loans for Accessory Dwelling Units

In a groundbreaking move to address the affordable housing crisis, the City of Long Beach has launched the Backyard Builders Program. This pilot program offers up to ten homeowners the chance to secure a 30-year, zero-interest loan of up to $250,000 to construct an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) on their property.

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YDS Architects yifu design studio blog about The 2024 California Homeowner's Friendly Guide to Building an ADU with a small detached ADU in the background

ADU Laws in California 2024: Everything Has Changed and You Need to Know NOW 🤯

In 2024, California passed new laws that make it easier than ever for homeowners to build Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs). These laws remove barriers like owner-occupancy requirements, streamline permitting processes, and even offer pre-approved plans. If you’ve been considering building an ADU, now is the time!

ADU Laws in California 2024: Everything Has Changed and You Need to Know NOW 🤯 Read More »

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