All Forum Posts by: Samuel Gostnell

@Arun Chandra hey Arun! I’m working on a similar project on a piece of land I own and have a great rec for a land broker in the area. I’ll send you a message.

@Ted Chi prefabs do require permits, luckily the process is usually shorter than getting plans drawn up and approved. Wells depend on the property. I’m not planning on digging, and am currently figuring out the feasibility of brining in water from the street. Hope that helps!

@Account Closed thank you for sharing your story! A 2 year prefab nightmare sounds awful. I'm curious if you could share the name of the company you worked with? I can privately message you if that's better. 

@Jason Kudo that's a good point to make the distinction between the city and the county. One year is actually not bad, I've been hearing longer from some people. Thanks for the feedback! 

@Sebastian Marroquin thank you for the feedback! Luckily many of these modular home companies include the cost of site work, hookups, etc. into the bid. You hit the mark on the pricing though. One company, for example, has a home that costs around $109k, but the quote came out to $190k. I appreciate you looking into it, and it's good to know we came to similar conclusions about cost, etc. If I decide to move forward on it I'll keep you posted on how it goes! 

I'm curious what peoples experience with considering new development in Joshua Tree (or surrounding areas) are. I understand there's a shortage of contractors, etc. in the area and that processing the permits can take a long time. Does anyone have any experience either attempting or completing a new development project out there? Thanks! 

@Elizabeth Alcala Joshua Tree is a pretty crazy market like @Jason Kudo said (prices went up 50% last year alone), although if you interested in long term rentals look 20 minutes east in 29 Palms. There's a Marine base there so you have a guaranteed industry and there's consistent commercial development (Starbucks just went in last year). I got $20k of settlement money from a car wreck when I was 20 and had my heart set on Joshua Tree for an STR, but it was just out of my price point. I ended up getting a home in 29 Palms and rented it to a guy who worked on the base. I made about $120 a month off it, but it appreciated 25% in just over a year and I sold it. I know this is a post about vacation rentals, but I don't regret one bit going with a long term rental. I learned a lot and it was much less upkeep than a STR. Either way, best of luck!

@Rajae Gayle I have land and am working on a SFR development project currently. I'm based in Los Angeles but will be relocating to JT soon. I'll message you!

Hello Bigger Pockets!

I am planning on working with a prefab home manufacturer to build a high end small home in Joshua Tree. I've toured a model home, spoken with the company reps and have found yet to find negative reviews. They handle everything from permits to installation, which is very appealing. 

Has anyone had experience with prefab companies, either for ADUs or SFRs? I'd be curious to hear what other people's experience is. 

(Just saw this post was from 3 years ago) Hey Jenny! I also own land in Joshua Tree and am planning a similar thing. I've had really good luck speaking with high end prefab manufactures. There are plenty of amazing options for companies focusing on ADUs that come right in at the 600 - 800 sqft size. The great thing about these companies is they handle everything from permits to installation and give you the cost up front. Check out www.prefabreview.com The prefab model isn't for everyone, but it could be a great option! Curious to hear how your project turns out and feel free to reach out to me if you ever want to exchange notes.