Prepare for Unexpected Costs
Tammy Sonspurchased a tiny home on a lake in Tennessee two years ago.
I wish I’d known land prices had increased so much before we got our hearts set on one.
Land prices have skyrocketed, Sons says.
Credit:Getty Images / Tony Anderson
In addition to hefty land costs, Sons recalls a few other key expenses that surprised her.
The septic cost us thousands.
That was totally unexpected, she says.
Also,hiring a contractorto wire was very costly.
Unfortunately for some, its not until youre living in a space that you realize you made poor choices.
The kitchen has taken up most of our space, which was a mistake, Sons says.
Because of its size, our bedroom and bath are tiny.
I’ve learned that functional art is everything in a tiny home, she says.
Maximize the Space You Do Have
To maximize her space, Sons invested in storage solutions.
Instead, she says living in a tiny home has forced her to change her mindset.
I also find it helpful to keep a laundry basket in the trunk of my car.
That allows me to collect and easily donate unused items when I’m out running errands.
I make a run at stay mindful and enjoy the time away.
The biggest adjustment has been two key rooms in the house.
The most challenging things were a small shower and a full-size bed, Sons says.
In the beginning, it felt like my house was pointing out my bad habits every few minutes.
If I ordered takeout, I’d overflow my tiny house trash can in one go.
My house put boundaries on my life where none existed.
But, she says it didn’t take her long to adjust.
Seek Out Tiny Home Communities (Or Don’t!)
Sons says there are tiny home communities in her area, but she has yet to join.
In the meantime, having a tiny home has changed her social life on the weekends when they stay.
We have no room for company.
It’s made life much more peaceful, and we can spend quality time together, she says.
I’d want a larger bedroom and bath and make the kitchen areas smaller, she says.
She also cautions tiny home converts to do their homework before choosing a builder.
Watch for the quality of materials.
Some tried to sell you pressboard, not plywood.
The pressboard will rot easily.
Work with an Expert
Wagoner says that the tiny home movement is still very much in a pioneering stage.
The rules and best practices surrounding this bang out of housing are still being developed," she says.
She says working with someone familiar with tiny homes as you look to buy or build then is key.
