{"id":86221,"date":"2023-08-17T12:36:56","date_gmt":"2023-08-17T19:36:56","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/?p=86221"},"modified":"2023-09-06T13:19:56","modified_gmt":"2023-09-06T20:19:56","slug":"building-a-house-in-california","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/building-a-house-in-california\/","title":{"rendered":"Building a House in California: 13 Key Considerations for Navigating Construction in the Golden State"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Building a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/state\/California\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">house in California<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> offers an exciting opportunity to craft your dream home in a region known for its diverse landscapes and dynamic lifestyle. However, the process comes with a myriad of factors to carefully consider. From navigating through complex building codes and regulations to harnessing sustainable design practices that harmonize with the Californian landscape, each step requires your attention.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In this comprehensive Redfin article, we delve into key considerations specific to building a house in California. Whether you\u2019re looking to build a home in the bustling urban landscape of <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/city\/11203\/CA\/Los-Angeles\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Los Angeles<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> or near the serene coastal beauty of <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/city\/12514\/CA\/Monterey\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Monterey<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, understanding these key facets and tips will help make your home construction journey in The Golden State a success.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_86224\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-86224\" style=\"width: 1200px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-86224 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/GettyImages-169821644.jpg\" alt=\"Modern wooden lounge chair next to swimming pool california house\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/GettyImages-169821644.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/GettyImages-169821644-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/GettyImages-169821644-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/GettyImages-169821644-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/GettyImages-169821644-225x150.jpg 225w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/GettyImages-169821644-945x630.jpg 945w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/GettyImages-169821644-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-86224\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Tom Merton via Getty Images<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">1. Understanding environmental impact and requirements<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">To align with California&#8217;s strong commitment to environmental conservation, it&#8217;s imperative to address the ecological impact when building a house in California. For instance, if you&#8217;re constructing in coastal regions like <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/city\/17680\/CA\/Santa-Cruz\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Santa Cruz<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, where erosion poses a challenge, it&#8217;s crucial to factor in setback requirements that shield shorelines from harm. Preserving native plant species, as observed in places like <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/city\/12514\/CA\/Monterey\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Monterey<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, becomes vital to uphold local biodiversity.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Given the strict regulations in water usage, especially in arid zones like Palm Springs, it&#8217;s essential to strictly follow guidelines for water-efficient fixtures and landscaping. This not only conserves precious resources but also ensures compliance with state mandates. Additionally, in areas susceptible to fires like Napa Valley, implementing construction practices that mitigate <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/guides\/climate-change-housing-impact\/fire-risk\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">fire risks<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, such as strategic defensible space design, becomes an absolute necessity.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">By taking these actionable steps, you actively contribute to the preservation of California&#8217;s environment while adhering to critical regulations.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">2. Planning for location-specific challenges<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Crafting a resilient California home involves addressing location-specific challenges and disaster resilience. You\u2019ll want to tailor strategies for diverse geography, such as protecting against saltwater damage along the coast and preparing for heavy snow loads in mountainous areas like Tahoe.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You can also prioritize disaster resilience by adding features like earthquake-resistant foundations and fire-resistant roofing. By thoughtfully designing with resilience, you bolster your home&#8217;s ability to withstand and recover from disasters. This safeguards your investment and your family, aligning your home with California&#8217;s unique demands.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">3. Complying with California&#8217;s strict building regulations<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Given California&#8217;s seismic activity, wildfire vulnerability, and commitment to the environment, it&#8217;s essential to understand and adhere to the nation&#8217;s most rigorous building regulations. The California Building Standards Code (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.dgs.ca.gov\/DSA\/Resources\/Page-Content\/Resources-List-Folder\/Overview-Title-24-Building-Standards-Code\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener external noreferrer\" data-wpel-link=\"external\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Title 24<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">) covers a wide range of construction standards, including how strong the structures need to be and how energy-efficient they should be.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For example, think about homes in places where earthquakes are common. These areas need extra-strong foundations to handle the shaking. And in areas prone to wildfires, the materials used should resist catching fire. Following these rules isn&#8217;t just important for your home&#8217;s safety, but also to follow the law properly. By following these guidelines, you&#8217;re not only protecting your home and money, but also helping California stay safe and eco-friendly.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">4. Navigating the complex permit process<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Obtaining the permits to build a house in California is a detailed process. You will need to carefully navigate various steps, which include getting approvals from local authorities and adhering to zoning regulations.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Each locale boasts distinct requirements &#8211; take, for instance, coastal clearances in <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/city\/11532\/CA\/Malibu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Malibu<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> or density considerations in Los Angeles.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">To make things go smoothly, work closely with local governments, follow sustainability rules, and pass site inspections with confidence. If you understand these steps from the beginning, your construction process will be easier. You&#8217;ll be able to handle permits more confidently and quickly.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">5. Assembling a skilled and knowledgeable team<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Building a house requires a skilled team including architects, engineers, contractors, and subcontractors. In California, it&#8217;s crucial to work with professionals who know the state&#8217;s rules and design needs. Look for experts who have done a lot of work in California \u2013 people who really understand the local building rules, earthquake safety rules, and environmental concerns.<\/span><\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_86226\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-86226\" style=\"width: 1200px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-86226 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/GettyImages-88621396.jpg\" alt=\"Exterior of modern house, patio and glass walls california house _ getty\" width=\"1200\" height=\"795\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/GettyImages-88621396.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/GettyImages-88621396-300x199.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/GettyImages-88621396-1024x678.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/GettyImages-88621396-768x509.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/GettyImages-88621396-226x150.jpg 226w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/GettyImages-88621396-951x630.jpg 951w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/GettyImages-88621396-453x300.jpg 453w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-86226\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Tom Merton via Getty Images<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">6. Integrating technology for efficiency and sustainability<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Use California&#8217;s love for technology to bring the latest innovations to your home construction. Embrace different new technologies that not only make building easier, but also improve the functionality of your home. Add smart home systems to make life more convenient and use heating and cooling systems that save energy and help the environment.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">&#8220;When embarking on a home construction project in 2023, it&#8217;s essential to emphasize energy-efficient improvements and integrate smart home capabilities. With technology advancing swiftly and becoming deeply integrated into our lifestyles, these enhancements not only contribute to an environmentally conscious home but also position it to adapt to evolving trends, ultimately boosting its long-term value,&#8221; says home remodeling company <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.hossinihomes.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener external noreferrer\" data-wpel-link=\"external\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hossini Homes LLC<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">7. Implementing sustainable construction practices<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">With California&#8217;s strong commitment to being environmentally friendly, it&#8217;s important to build homes in an eco-conscious way. Homes designed to be energy-efficient don&#8217;t just help the environment, they also save money on utilities over time. An example of this is the integration of <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/how-do-solar-panels-work\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">solar panels<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> \u2013 a practice in which California leads the nation, boasting over <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.seia.org\/state-solar-policy\/california-solar\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener external noreferrer\" data-wpel-link=\"external\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">2 million solar installations as of 2022<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The state&#8217;s commitment to sustainability also extends to conscientious material selection. From bamboo flooring and reclaimed wood to recycled steel, the utilization of <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/sustainable-architecture\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">eco-friendly building materials<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> minimizes the carbon footprint inherent in new construction. The prevalence of low-VOC paints and finishes in eco-driven projects throughout California enhances indoor air quality while harmonizing with the state&#8217;s overarching environmental aspirations.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">By championing these sustainability principles, you contribute not only to a greener future but also to the enduring value and eco-responsibility of your home.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">8. Optimizing construction timing for California&#8217;s climate<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Choosing the right timing for construction in California&#8217;s ever-changing climate is essential. With diverse weather patterns across the state, strategically planning construction phases to align with ideal weather conditions can increase efficiency and reduce potential disruptions.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">9. Estimating and allocating costs for your project<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Planning your expenses precisely stands as a crucial step toward success, especially in California, where costs are higher due to strong demand and strict building codes. Recent data indicates the average cost is <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/state\/California\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">$458 per square foot<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, with urban areas being pricier. For example, building a 2,500 square foot home in <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/city\/17151\/CA\/San-Francisco\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">San Francisco<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> could reach around <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/city\/17151\/CA\/San-Francisco\/housing-market\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">$1,405,000<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, while a similar home in <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/city\/6904\/CA\/Fresno\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fresno<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> might cost about <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/city\/6904\/CA\/Fresno\/housing-market\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">$375,000<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Accounting for specific location costs is vital. By meticulously estimating and managing expenses, you create a solid financial strategy that navigates the complexities of California&#8217;s construction landscape, ensuring your budget remains intact and your project is successfully realized.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">10. Exploring financing and mortgage options<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Securing financing for your California home project involves exploring specialized mortgage options. Construction loans release funds as construction progresses. Utilize <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/guides\/first-time-home-buyer-programs-california\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">first-time homebuyer programs in California<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> for building to receive vital support.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Prepare for unexpected costs. Understand available tax benefits and explore down payment assistance. Streamline your journey by mastering California&#8217;s financial landscape. Manage your budget effectively, bringing your dream of building a home to life.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">11. Determining accurate appraisal values for your home<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Accurate <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/what-is-my-home-worth\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">property appraisal in California<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is crucial for determining your new home&#8217;s value. The state&#8217;s diverse real estate markets mean that the same home design can yield vastly different prices based solely on location. For example, a 2,000 square foot home might be appraised much higher in busy <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/city\/11203\/CA\/Los-Angeles\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Los Angeles<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> compared to a similar structure in a smaller place like <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/city\/953\/CA\/Bakersfield\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bakersfield<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This appraisal process involves evaluating recent comparable sales, property conditions, and local variables to determine an accurate value. By actively engaging in this appraisal process, you position your home&#8217;s value within California&#8217;s real estate landscape, aiding informed decision-making.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">12. Engaging with Homeowner&#8217;s Associations effectively (HOAs)<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In many Californian residential communities, Homeowner&#8217;s Associations (HOAs) have a significant influence, governed by distinct rules. These associations impact aspects ranging from home design to landscaping choices and even exterior paint colors. Understanding HOAs&#8217; pivotal role and fully embracing their requirements is essential when building within such communities.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">13. Understanding legal rights and contracts<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When building a house in California, it&#8217;s crucial to understand legalities and contracts thoroughly. This covers everything from construction agreements to warranties and requires unwavering diligence. Develop a deep grasp of your rights and responsibilities as a homeowner to safeguard your investment and establish a strong framework for addressing unexpected issues.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Prioritize this by immersing yourself in construction law, contracts, and warranties. This equips you to navigate challenges and ensure compliance effectively. Taking this proactive approach safeguards your financial commitment and establishes safeguards against unexpected setbacks.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_86225\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-86225\" style=\"width: 1200px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-86225 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/GettyImages-169821635.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/GettyImages-169821635.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/GettyImages-169821635-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/GettyImages-169821635-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/GettyImages-169821635-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/GettyImages-169821635-225x150.jpg 225w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/GettyImages-169821635-945x630.jpg 945w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/GettyImages-169821635-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-86225\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Tom Merton via Getty Images<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A final note on building a house in California<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">To sum it up, building a house in California is exciting yet demanding. By following rules, focusing on sustainability, and using technology, you can make a resilient and eco-friendly home that captures the essence of the state. With smart planning, a skilled team, and care for the environment, your dream California home can come true.<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Navigate the complexities of building a house in California with insights on regulations, costs, sustainability, and more.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":562,"featured_media":86224,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"site-sidebar-layout":"default","site-content-layout":"","ast-site-content-layout":"default","site-content-style":"default","site-sidebar-style":"default","ast-global-header-display":"","ast-banner-title-visibility":"","ast-main-header-display":"","ast-hfb-above-header-display":"","ast-hfb-below-header-display":"","ast-hfb-mobile-header-display":"","site-post-title":"","ast-breadcrumbs-content":"","ast-featured-img":"","footer-sml-layout":"","ast-disable-related-posts":"","theme-transparent-header-meta":"default","adv-header-id-meta":"","stick-header-meta":"default","header-above-stick-meta":"","header-main-stick-meta":"","header-below-stick-meta":"","astra-migrate-meta-layouts":"set","ast-page-background-enabled":"default","ast-page-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-4)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"ast-content-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"footnotes":""},"categories":[10756,2656],"tags":[34395,34362],"coauthors":[34346],"class_list":["post-86221","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-featured-post","category-local-insights","tag-ca","tag-house-styles"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v24.7 (Yoast SEO v27.7) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Building a House in California: 13 Key Considerations - Redfin<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Navigate the complexities of building a house in California with insights on regulations, costs, sustainability, and more.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/building-a-house-in-california\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Building a House in California: 13 Key Considerations for Navigating Construction in the Golden State\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Navigate the complexities of building a house in California with insights on regulations, costs, sustainability, and more.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/building-a-house-in-california\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Redfin | Real Estate Tips for Home Buying, Selling &amp; 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