3 minute read
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By Mary Jane Bogle
Tiny houses have hit the market in a big way in the past few years — and for good reason. They offer affordable housing solutions and tons of customizable plans. And with several TV series showcasing this flexible living option, it’s easy to get caught up in the tiny living craze.
While you can always purchase a ready-made tiny home, tiny house kits are now available, taking custom options to a whole new level. If you’re considering a tiny house kit, here are five considerations to keep in mind before you buy. 1 – Location. As with any real estate transaction, location is key. For tiny home dwellers, location is even more significant, since some cities and counties consider tiny homes illegal — mainly because these municipalities simply haven’t developed zoning regulations for tiny homes yet. So before you order your kit, make sure you can actually build it in your chosen location. 2 – Foundation. Some people build a tiny house that operates much like an RV, complete with a trailer frame and wheels. Others prefer to make their houses more permanent, opting to build their tiny homes on concrete slabs or basements. Knowing which type of foundation suits your needs could determine the type of kit you buy and could even impact the type of lumber needed for framing and installation. Just be sure to check your building codes before you make your final purchase. 3 – Apples-to-apples comparisons. Tiny home kits come with a wide range of options. Some offer the shell and lumber only, leaving home buyers to purchase all other components, such as plumbing, electrical, hardware, doors, windows and anything else a typical home might need. Other plans offer complete building solutions, including everything from stamped architectural plans to caulk, screws and all the tools needed to complete the job. And remember to ask if a warranty is included in the overall price. Buying a kit that matches your budget — and your building capabilities — is key. 4 – Permits. No matter what type of kit you purchase, you will still be responsible for pulling necessary building permits and hiring any specialized contractors, such as electricians and plumbers. Just remember to factor those costs into your overall budget when deciding what kit works best for you. 5 – Timing. Most tiny homes take 6 – 12 months to build. If you need to move into your tiny home by a certain date (such as the start of a new job or school year), be sure to include time for shipping and any inspections required by your city or county. Don’t forget about potential weather delays, and if you’re doing most of the work yourself, you might want to factor in time for what might be a steep learning curve.
Bottom line: while tiny home kits can offer an affordable and customized living solution, it’s not as simple — or as cheap — as it first appears. Doing your homework ahead of time will ensure you end up with a home that works for you … and your budget.
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