Featured Guides

Featured Guides is the permanent planning library of The Homestead Journal. Each guide explores a fundamental topic in residential architecture, planning, and construction to help homeowners make informed decisions before work begins.

cost to build
Evergreen Guide • Updated July 2026

Cost to Build in Sonoma County

Understand the factors that influence construction costs and learn how to build a realistic project budget.

Architectural drawings with material samples illustrating preconstruction planning and design coordination for a custom home.
Evergreen Guide • Updated July 2026

Understanding Permits & Approvals

Learn how planning, engineering, permitting, and agency reviews influence the path to construction.

timeline to build
Evergreen Guide • Updated July 2026

Timeline to Build

Understand the milestones and sequencing that shape a successful project.

The people you choose often have a greater impact on the success of your project than the project itself. Learn how to assemble a team that creates clarity, alignment, and confidence from the beginning.
Evergreen Guide • Updated July 2026

Selecting Your Project Team

Successful projects aren’t created by a single professional. They’re created by aligned teams. Learn how to assemble the right team before construction begins.

Budget Philosophy
Evergreen Guide • Updated July 2026

Budget Philosophy

How should we think about money?

Evergreen Guide • Updated July 2026

Pre-Construction Planning

What should happen before construction begins?

deep work
Evergreen Guide • Updated July 2026

Delivering Certainty

The philosophy behind every Homestead project.

Evergreen Guide • Updated July 2026

Construction Management

Who is responsible for keeping the project on track?