Andrew Underhill of Encinitas, California, launched Emery Custom Builds in 2024, specializing in custom van conversions, operating from his garage. After a layoff from the tech industry, he built a customer base and streamlined operations. The company offers three packages — small, mid-range, and high-end — priced up to $50,000, $75,000, and $120,000 respectively, with timelines ranging from 8 to 16 weeks. Most customers use the vans for recreation and extended travel, not full-time living. Underhill plans to potentially hire one or two part-time workers to focus on business development.
