Common Questions Potential Tiny Home Owners Have

If you’ve ever considered downsizing and moving into a tiny home, you’ve probably run into a lot of questions and concerns about that big change. Living in a tiny home comes with a lot of benefits, but it also comes with a lot of lifestyle changes and irregular issues. Here are a lot of the common questions that potential tiny homeowners have, and some solutions that can answer these questions. 

Where Can I Put a Tiny Home?

First off, you’ve probably wondered where you can put a tiny home. Many tiny homes are built to be mobile, allowing you to enjoy different areas in the outdoors. A tiny home like this functions similarly to a camping van or RV. Tiny homes built in this style can legally be parked in locations where these types of vehicles would be parked. However, if you’re wanting to build your tiny home in a more permanent location, it can be a bit trickier to find a spot that will work. First off, you would need to make sure that you choose a state that allows tiny homes. Next, you’d need to figure out what kind of property you will build your tiny home on. If you build your tiny home on the same property as another housing unit, it will qualify as an ADU or an accessory dwelling unit. The zoning rules for ADUs are stricter than the zoning rules for mobile tiny homes. From recreational/vacation tiny home locations to rural locations, there are various places you could put a tiny home. That being said, there are even some tiny home communities that have started to appear across the country. 

What Permits Do I Need?

If you’re looking into building a tiny home, you’ve probably also wondered what type of permits you might need. The required permits will depend on your location, so take some time to research the specific requirements in your state. If you actually plan to live full-time in your tiny home, your state may require you to have a building permit. There are also other permits that you may need depending on your situation. For example, one common requirement for tiny homes to actually be considered tiny and qualify for permits and rules is that they must be 400 square feet or less. 

Are Tiny Homes Sustainable?

While tiny homes are rumored to be super sustainable, they are only as sustainable as you make them. Of course, having a smaller home will minimize the effect that you have on your surrounding environment, but in order to live sustainably, there are some decisions that you’ll have to make early on in your tiny home journey. First off, you can choose to include recycled materials in the makeup of your home. Lots of tiny homes use reclaimed tin or metal as well as recycled barn wood or old palettes to construct the exterior of their home. This can save you a lot of money and is environmentally friendly. Many tiny homes also include solar panels and energy-efficient appliances to make their use more sustainable.

Can I Have Pets in a Tiny Home?

Many people wonder if they can have pets in their tiny homes. While this might depend largely on your home design and the area in which you live, the general answer is yes, you can. Having pets is especially convenient if you live in a mobile tiny home since your pets will be able to roam in the open areas that you visit. You should also consider the type of pet that you’re trying to bring into your tiny home. Some dogs like Goldendoodles are hypoallergenic and don’t shed as much as other breeds. Since Goldendoodles have hair, they won’t leave fur all around your house, so you won’t have allergic reactions to them. They also won’t make your tiny home feel messy and disorderly.

How Can I Have Sufficient Storage in a Tiny Home?

Another common concern that many potential tiny homeowners have is storage. Even though you usually try to get rid of a lot of your unnecessary belongings, you’ll still have a significant amount of stuff to store. The good thing is that many tiny home designers have gotten very creative in making tiny home storage. One popular idea is under stairs storage. This could refer to a storage nook underneath the stair area or drawers underneath each individual stair. Creating storage under seating and beds is another great way to make the most of your limited space. There are lots of storage ideas that you can implement to make your tiny home more efficient. 

Can I Have a Family in a Tiny Home?

Similar to the pet question, many people wonder if they can actually live in a tiny home with kids. The basic answer is that if you really want to make it happen, it can work. Bedroom lofts can be added into your space to create a kids’ room. You can even use your couch as a sleeping space regardless of whether or not it has a pullout mattress. Since there won’t be a lot of space inside your home for kids to run around and play, many tiny homeowners like to build an outside patio or play space for their children. If you think creatively about the space you have to work with and the needs of your children, you can create a tiny home that will be perfect for your family. 

How Much Does a Tiny Home Cost?

While the cost of a tiny home build can vary, tiny homes are always cheaper than regular-sized homes. On average, most tiny homes cost around $25,000 to construct. If you are renting land or have to pay for labor, this can also add to your tiny home bills. However, if you choose to use a lot of recycled materials in your tiny home, constructing it will be significantly cheaper than the aforementioned average cost. 

Are Tiny Homes Worth it?

So, the ultimate question is whether or not tiny homes are worth it. If you want to live sustainably and minimally, a tiny home can be a great fit for you. Also, if you’re wanting to reduce your cost of living, tiny homes can help you to achieve that goal. Finally, tiny homes can be entirely customizable, so you can create a home that fits your lifestyle, personal taste, and interests. If you feel that each of these reasons could be beneficial for you, then yes, a tiny home would be worth it. 

As you consider the possibility of moving into a tiny home, remember the common questions and concerns that have been discussed in this article. While it may seem like there are a lot of hurdles when it comes to building a tiny home, having these common questions answered can help you in that journey. Once you’ve decided that a tiny home will be perfect for you, don’t let any of those hurdles intimidate you. Take the necessary time and research to make your tiny home dreams come true.

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