A custom container home is affordable, fast to build, versatile, and a smart monetary investment. Container homes are intended to withstand harsh weather conditions. Most container homes are eco-friendly products with a high R insulation value, and less electricity and resources are used to power the space. However, people are inquisitive about the fiscal factors related to custom container living. It’s true that container homes are more affordable than traditional spaces, but many other variables influence the cost. The size, location, interior design, finishing, and layouts are some of the features responsible for deciding the cost factor of the homes. A container home isn’t dirt-cheap but costs lesser than a similarly equipped traditional space.
Housing expense and cost-cutting
A Silicon Valley millionaire, a middle-class manager, or a fixed-income retiree, all have a housing budget. It’s a thumb rule that one shouldn’t spend more than 30% of their income on housing, but unfortunately, many families exceed their budget due to housing-related expenses like maintenance and other utilities. Focusing on cutting down on larger expenses like housing can change the financial picture and help you make good savings. You can choose to have a container home if you have the right mindset, like:
- Choose ‘cradle to grave’ ownership and have foresight about ‘long tail’ costs like disposal, maintenance, and replacement
- Understand that paying more doesn’t mean you are getting better value
- You are open to minimalism and can give up on things that don’t serve you anymore
- Know the differences between wants and needs
All customer living containers are not created the same. Some are expensive, while others are reasonably priced. If you are seeking cost-cutting, then read on.
Design your lifestyle with specific cost-cutting
Investing in container homes is affordable due to a few areas of savings depending solely on the design. Here are some design ideas to make maximum savings while living comfortably inside a container.
- Foundation – Design containers with a strong metal frame as they need support only at the four corners, meaning you cover maximum floor space with less foundation work than a traditional home.
- Exterior Walls – Cover the container’s exterior walls with corrugated metal skin as they are durable and can endure weather elements. The metal covering is ideal as you don’t need to have any additional exterior walls unless you want them for insulative or aesthetic purposes.
- Flooring – Invest in an affordable epoxy coating to seal the container’s existing plywood floor.
- Roof – Containers with a flat metal roof are ideal for protecting against elements and climatic fluctuations.
How much does a container home cost?
The average cost of a container is around $10,000 to $35,000, and the larger houses can go up to $175,000. The cost of the container units increases depending on the desired materials used and other amenities. The prices will go up if you want more features inside the container. However, if you want the best prices, faster response, and priority services, then TinyHouseMe can connect you with the most trusted builders in the USA.
Install the insulation
The container firmly placed over a foundation requires insulation to make the structure liveable. Proper insulation can control the container’s climate and offer adequate energy efficiency. Without insulation, the container will be like an ice box during winter and a sauna during the summer months. Not to forget, an energy-efficient container also reduces utility bills and saves living costs to a great extent.
Add amenities for comfortable living
Most container homes have the following:
- HVAC systems
- Roofing and rooftop features
- Interior doors and walls
- Shelving and closets
- Flooring
- Windows
- Electricity
- Plumbing (including sinks, showers, and bathtubs)
These amenities will make your containers feel more like home. However, remember the home design goals should align with your housing budget, and expenses shouldn’t go overboard.
Government Policy
Many states and communities are open to container homes and issuing permits. However, pushback comes from zoning laws, and you must research local regulations before building the container homes. Additionally, remember that even if the container home is legalized in your state, the municipality will have to give the final nod of approval.
We help you with your dream container home
TinyHouseMe can aid your home-buying process. We help you make the right decisions and connect you with the best builders in the industry. The experts help you avoid buying the wrong house at the wrong location and ensure you get the perfect home that makes you happy.
