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Cost Guides

Breaking Down Multigenerational Addition Budgets

Planning a multigenerational home addition in 2026 requires precise budgeting, thorough contract review, and attention to potential hidden expenses. Decisions from initial design through ongoing maintenance determine the project's overall value. Knowledge of zoning regulations, financing options, and quality benchmarks enables homeowners to achieve a balance of comfort, privacy, and fiscal responsibility for enduring family living arrangements.

By Leah Rodriguez

January 15, 2026

6 min read

#ADU#multigenerational#multigenerational living

Featured

Appliance & System Coverage

Solar Warranties Now Cover Inverters and Batteries

In 2026, home warranties increasingly include solar coverage to shield expensive inverters, batteries, and panels from repair costs. Homeowners benefit from strategies that prevent overlap with manufacturer warranties, facilitate provider comparisons, and optimize contracts for maximum value and resale advantages.

By Nicole Stambaugh

January 15, 2026

6 min read

#energy#maintenance#renewable

Featured

Outdoor & Exterior Guides

Fire-Resistant Materials Cut Insurance and Ignition Risk

In wildfire-prone regions, selecting fire-resistant materials safeguards homes, ensures insurance eligibility, and adheres to evolving building standards. This comprehensive guide details effective products, their expenses, and secure installation methods. From Class A roofing to ember-resistant vents, discover strategies to achieve code compliance, decrease insurance rates, and improve property resilience while balancing budget and safety.

By John Penick

January 15, 2026

6 min read

#home#protection#materials

Home Warranty Basics

Hidden Clauses That Void Home Warranty Claims

Home warranties offer protection for major systems and appliances, yet fine print often conceals clauses that limit or deny claims. Common pitfalls include pre-existing condition exclusions, stacked service fees, narrow component definitions, repair caps, maintenance requirements, code compliance issues, and access cost limitations. By recognizing these, homeowners can select robust plans and avoid unexpected expenses.

By Leah Rodriguez

January 15, 2026

4 min read

#home#coverage#warranty

Cost Guides

Solar Panels with Battery Backup Cost $28K in 2026

In 2026, expect solar panel systems with battery backup to range from $22,000 to $36,000, offering an 8 to 12 year payback and boosting property value by 4 to 6 percent. Factors like system scale, battery technology, and installation timing shape expenses. Strategic choices in sizing, vendor selection, and timing yield substantial savings, energy reliability, and future-proof performance.

By Nicole Stambaugh

January 15, 2026

6 min read

#home#renewable#solar

Appliance & System Coverage

Most Home Warranties Don't Cover AI Monitoring Systems

AI home monitoring systems provide advanced security and efficiency, yet most home warranties leave owners exposed to repair costs.

By Melissa Flowers

January 15, 2026

6 min read

#home#Monitoring#warranty

Cost Guides

Home Battery Backup: $8K-$18K Installation Costs

Home battery backups range from $8,000 to $18,000 installed, averaging $12,400. Costs vary by capacity, battery type, and setup complexity. Premium options like Tesla Powerwall provide superior efficiency and warranties, while bundling with solar cuts expenses and enhances reliability.

By Daniel Burnett

January 14, 2026

5 min read

#storage#home#energy

Home Guides

Home Air Upgrade Coverage: $1,200-$8,500 Costs Explained

Home air upgrade coverage safeguards investments in HVAC enhancements that improve comfort, efficiency, and health. Options range from basic to premium plans, helping homeowners save thousands on purification, repairs, and replacements. This guide details coverage tiers, installation factors, and strategies to optimize value and performance.

By Daniel Burnett

January 14, 2026

6 min read

#home#hvac#warranty

Cost Guides

Multigenerational Home Additions Cost $265K in 2026

In 2026, constructing a multigenerational home addition will average $265,000, with costs ranging from $190,000 to $410,000 and timelines of four to eight months. This comprehensive guide details every expense category, from foundational work to final finishes, while highlighting key pricing influences, practical cost-saving measures, and essential steps for hiring professionals to maximize value, comfort, and long-term resale potential.

By Nicole Stambaugh

January 14, 2026

8 min read

#housing#ADU#multigenerational

Appliance & System Coverage

Solar Warranty vs Insurance: Protect Your Investment

Distinguishing solar warranties from insurance is crucial for long-term financial security. Warranties address manufacturer defects and performance, while insurance tackles external threats like storms and theft. Combining both delivers comprehensive safeguards, reducing risks and enhancing the value of solar investments through 2026.

By Leah Rodriguez

January 14, 2026

6 min read

#energy#maintenance#renewable

Outdoor & Exterior Guides

Lower Your Water Bill With Drought-Proof Landscaping

Convert your landscape into a water-efficient haven that slashes costs and endures dry weather. This guide covers selecting resilient plants, optimizing soil and irrigation, plus detailed costs, DIY instructions, and regional advice for a thriving, eco-friendly yard.

By Susan Weiland

January 14, 2026

7 min read

#landscaping#water conservation#conservation

Cost Guides

Granny Pod Permits Add $5K–$20K to Your Budget

In 2026, granny pod projects range from $85,000 to $150,000, plus $5,000 to $20,000 for permits and preparations. This comprehensive guide details zoning essentials, construction choices, timelines, and regional variances to empower homeowners in budgeting effectively and designing adaptable spaces that boost family bonds and home equity.

By Susan Weiland

January 13, 2026

6 min read

#installation#ADU#living