Forever Tiny Homes

“SBDC has helped us from the very beginning and through the ups and downs of the last few years. We love having the ability to call when we need help and you’re always ready to assist.”
— Arlin Mendoza and Dominic Velazquez

All Client Stories
Forever Tiny Homes

The Problem

Arlin Mendoza and Dominic Velazquez are Liberty Cabins owners (forevertinyhomes.com) – a well-established “tiny house” manufacturer with an enthusiastic following.  They moved to Anderson, CA, from the Bay Area several years ago and became an SBDC client.  At the Anderson facility, they could work on two tiny homes at once and establish themselves with some limited, sporadic sales.  As SBDC advisor Joe Rodola worked with them, and as they gained a foothold in the marketplace, they realized more steady growth; by the end of 2019, their annual sales had increased significantly. 

Gameplan: Expansion

In 2020, they discussed the concept of expansion with Joe, noting the expected reduction in costs due to economies of scale.  They eyed a much larger, 40,000 sq. ft. facility in nearby Cottonwood, which would allow them to increase their volume.  This would enable them to construct 6 to 8 homes simultaneously.  They were in the midst of the move in March when the pandemic hit.  Their sales dropped, and they were concerned as prospective clients became uncertain about whether the company would continue.

Results:

Once again, Arlin and Dominic turned to the SBDC for help.  Joe was able to guide the couple through the initial downturn in sales and helped them obtain an Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) from the SBA.  Coupled with their own investment, they were able to continue work.  They regained the confidence of their customers and subsequently received new orders.  They hired additional help and now expect their 2020 sales figures to outshine 2019 by a wide margin.