Tag: build your own tiny house

Land for Your Tiny House – Everything You Need To Know

build your own tiny house

If you have not yet paid attention, then the tiny home movement is gaining momentum across the US and Canada. As per Comfy Living, 63% of millennials consider living and buying a tiny house as they can enjoy everyday pleasures and comforts by living in these 100 to 400 square feet houses. You can now build your own tiny home by connecting with a trusted builder via TinyHouseMe. This online directory connects established builders with potential tiny home buyers. However, before you build your own tiny house, you need to buy land for long-term living in your tiny space. Regardless of home size, land prices vary based on location. Many tiny home dwellers prefer to go to rural areas to buy land as the price is comparatively much lesser and the building codes and zonal laws are much more relaxed. So, if you are finding answers to ‘how to find land for tiny homes,’ you have come to the right place.

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Decide whether you want to find land in urban, suburban, or rural areas

You need to consider several factors before deciding on the land for your tiny house. Here are a few things you need to know about different geographical settings.

Urban

Because of the limited availability of land, an urban setting for a tiny home can be a great challenge. In addition, tiny homes in an urban setting must face the strictest building and zoning restrictions. So even if you find a rare space for your tiny home, you might need to pay a premium for the lot and won’t get much room space. However, many city lovers find this a worthwhile compromise, and they select smaller, less expensive, and more tiny-home friendly cities like California and Texas.

Suburban

Finding land is easier in a suburban setting, and you get the best of both worlds. To build your own tiny home in a suburban place, you must find neighborhoods that don’t have strict HOA regulations. You can also get in touch with the local jurisdiction to determine the size of the tiny home and learn about the building codes you need to meet, along with other zoning specifications that must be followed. Surveying the land and locating underground utilities are the other two aspects that need to be checked to scour the property from obstacles. Placing a tiny home on wheels in suburban areas is a huge challenge unless they get approved as ADUs or get permission to be parked in mobile home parks.

Rural

Purchasing rural land for your tiny home is much cheaper, and you will face fewer restrictions to build your own tiny house. As population density drops, the price of land drops further, and you will find plenty of unrestricted and unincorporated land for the tiny home. However, there are downsides like lack of a driveway, electricity, and running water, and to address these drawbacks, you might need to pay for the services or get the proper equipment for a DIY job.

Where to find land for tiny homes?

As long as your tiny house complies with the state’s building codes and city zoning ordinances, it can be built anywhere. If you have a pre-owned property, ensure it complies with the county or city zonal codes. If they comply, then you are all set to go! You will need a different land for the tiny home if it doesn’t. Consider location, size, price, and other factors when looking for land for your tiny home. Fortunately, there are certain sites where you can find a property based on the specific criteria related to tiny homes.

Here are some of our recommendations:

However, if you want a recommendation from a certified builder or expert assistance, then TinyHouseMe can help. So become a member and allow us to help you find the perfect space for your tiny living. Land for tiny homes gets expensive, and there is a tendency to face complications with building codes and zoning laws, which is why TinyHouseMe can make things simpler for you. We connect you with trusted tiny home builders and showcase tiny home models to help you find the perfect space of your choice.

What are the local rules and regulations on land?

Before purchasing the land, know how the land is zoned and the building standards required. Zoning laws govern property usage in a specific location; you have to check with your city to know what’s allowed on the land and what isn’t. You cannot pick any land and assume that a tiny home is allowed. Building codes and standards are essential to consider as they regulate specific rules for every structure constructed on the property. These codes are regulated by state, county, and city governments. However, every situation varies as each county does not have building or zoning laws but does enforce safety and health regulations. Therefore, look into the local laws of the land and ensure that you are legally allowed use to build your own tiny house.

What are the utility connections for tiny house land?

After deciding on the land for a tiny house and checking with building and zoning regulations, consider utility connections. Some places need water and power access, for which you either have to pay for the services or create your own. Utilities are expensive when you are located in a far-off place from existing utility connections. Finding inexpensive and undeveloped land with utility connections is a great alternative, and that’s why it’s good to keep searching until you find the perfect land to settle in.

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How much does it cost to develop land for tiny homes?

Unfortunately, there is no specific answer. However, developing land for a tiny home can get pricey. While buying a tiny home is not expensive, the land for the tiny home can add up to the costs. Here, we give you an idea of what you are paying for.

  • Land
  • Property survey
  • Soil and water test
  • Permit fees
  • Engineering services
  • Utility hookups like water, power, and sewage
  • Tree removal
  • Paving driveway or a road

Additionally, you must have fund ready for emergencies.

Have you met with a dead end?

The good news is that many states are changing their views on tiny homes, and legislation is following suit. A good builder can help you build your own tiny house and provide valuable information about purchasing land for a tiny home. Now connect with multiple builders under one platform and get expert assistance for a tiny home living – Join TinyHouseMe now!

Questions To Ask Your Tiny Home Builder

build your own tiny home

Did you know tiny home sales make up to 1% in the US, as per the reports of One Desk? The sale number is rapidly growing as people are excited to declutter, downsize and experience the tiny home lifestyle. As tiny homes become more popular, the lookout for established builders is also rising. Choosing an established, independent builder is imperative if you want to build your own tiny house and get the structure customized. Just as the decision to build your own tiny home shouldn’t be taken lightly, the need for a trusted builder is equally important. A major part of tiny home building is how the builder aligns your expectations with their ability to manufacture the model you want. Here are six questions you need to ask a tiny home builder before deciding. 

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Are you a registered and insured builder?

This is an important question to ask your builder. If a builder is registered with the concerned governing body, their work will be reviewed by the state, local, or 3rd party inspectors. An insured builder is a coveted catch as they will have adequate insurance in case of any mishaps or accidents that might occur during the building phase of the tiny home. However, depending on the building standard of your tiny home, the builder’s work is reviewed after completion by the certification company or governing body. A tiny house needs to be build in compliance with International Residential Codes. TinyHouseMe assures that you get connected to trusted builders across US and Canada. We also showcase tiny home models manufactured by the builders to give you an idea of what’s in store once you connect. 

Can you provide me with a definitive price for the tiny home?

This is another important question to ask as it can help you plan for a loan and how budget the expenses. Some builders will give you an estimate right away, while others will ask for more time to determine the total cost based on customization and materials required. Lock the price once it comes, and make sure there are no hidden expenses. Check the terms of your contract to avoid unpleasant surprises. Additionally, ensure your builder is open to handling changes after signing the contract. At times, an additional fee might be charged for changes in the design, but you need to be specifically upfront about these factors before taking the plunge. 

What kind of contracts are utilized, and what’s included? 

Most tiny home builders use standard contracts to cover the basic scope of work. There might be additional clauses beneficial to you as a buyer, but it’s essential to understand the kind of contract used by the builder and whether there are any changes or additions you might seek. The more detailed the contract, the better it is for you. Check out what’s included in the contract and ask the builder to discuss the details with you. Ensure that every aspect is included, from materials, warranty, to labor and delivery. You can also ask a lawyer to review the tiny home contract before you seal the deal with the builder. 

What is the warranty provided by you?

Generally, tiny home builders offer a 1- or 2-year warranty on materials and labor. However, some established builders also offer 5-to-15-year warranties. It’s important to ask about the warranty as it ensures what’s covered and what’s not. If the tiny home builder you have chosen is out-of-state, find out what to do when there is a warranty issue. Will the builders send an expert for the repairs, or do you need to pay and send your home on wheels to them? Talk to the builders about the process of filing a claim when something goes wrong. Ask for details like how long the coverage lasts and if there are any stipulations as to when things won’t be covered under warranty. Asking questions beforehand ensures peace of mind and prevents you from panicking when things break down. Once you ask about warranty, bring up insurance and find out what they have to offer you about insuring the tiny home. 

Do you offer to finance the tiny home, or can you recommend some providers? 

Financing a tiny home is not easy, as getting a traditional mortgage is simply out of the question. Instead, you can opt for RV loans and personal loans, but getting a good lender and knowing the nitty-gritty details is a challenge. Many home builders offer in-house financing or can connect you with a lender to finance your tiny house project. However, an easy way out would be to connect with a builder via TinyHouseMe. We connect you with a trusted builder and offer expert help in financing the project. 

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What is the lead time? 

A professional builder will clearly tell you when to expect your home construction to be complete. A clear timeline from the builder ensures you have everything in place, the foundation-site is fully prepared, and all your belongings are sorted. When you plan to build your own tiny home, then an experienced and trusted builder is ideal rather than choosing a random one from the internet. 

Final Words 

Choosing a builder to build your own tiny house and get the structure customized is the 1st step and also the most important one. However, most established tiny home builders are too busy to respond to random questions, which is why TinyHouseMe can help. We connect you with the builders and ensure faster response from them. Customers from our end get priority service and help in financing and planning the project. 

Build Your Own Tiny House on Wheels – Security Tips To Keep the Space Safe

tiny house on wheels

It’s a dream to build your own tiny house on wheels, but there are certain downsides too. The home on wheels are mobile units, and you can move your house wherever you want. However, it also means other people can move the house too. In addition, the mobile nature of tiny houses makes them susceptible to theft. Stolen tiny homes get recovered, but it’s unnerving to think that the entire structure is so vulnerable to theft without any security. Luckily, there are many security measures that you can take to ensure the tiny home is safe and not stolen. From hitch locks to installing cameras and motion detectors, here are a few tiny home security tips that will bring you peace of mind. 

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Hitch lock 

Get yourself a hitch lock to protect the tiny home. The hitch lock is a low-tech device that covers the hitch and stops the thieves from hooking the house to a vehicle and driving off. The hitch lock is a visible deterrent and a popular and affordable option. Ensure that the lock fits your trailer, as a good-fitting lock is harder to break and lasts longer. 

Wheel lock 

Another low-cost and low-tech solution is the wheel lock. You can install the wheel lock at the trailer’s lug nuts. This device acts as an anti-theft deterrent. It’s a great choice, as removing the wheel lock is almost impossible unless you have the right key. In addition, wheel locks are quite economical and long-lasting. 

GPS tracking 

Hide a GPS tracking device in your tiny home, and if someone tries to move your home and steal it, you can track down the thief and get your home back. Several GPS tracking devices are designed for motorhomes, which are quite economical and work great to locate homes even in remote locations.  

Security camera 

Installing security cameras near the tiny home is a great techy solution to record any theft attempts or criminal activity. There are affordable security cameras that deliver footage directly to your laptop or smartphone, helping you keep an eye on your house whenever you are out. Although security cameras might look pricey, there are affordable ones these days that do the job well. 

Restrict access 

If you want to deter the thieves from stealing the house, restrict access and make it hard for them to move the structure from the parking lot. Install a locked gate to keep the thieves away. You can also keep large boulders or structures around the tiny house to make it difficult for the thieves to have access. Another way is to place something heavy like a truck at the front of the hitch to ensure no other vehicle can come in the way and hook up the tiny home. You can get such smart ideas from the experts. Connect with top-notch builders via TinyHouseMe to design and build your own tiny house. 

Place tiny homes on blocks

Make the tiny homes less mobile by putting the house on jack stands or blocks. You can put the wheels of tiny homes somewhere else so that the thieves are unable to tow the home and will need to bring their own wheels and tools. This technique is a clever way to slow down the thieves, but it isn’t ideal if you prefer to move a lot. However, it’s perfect if you are looking for an easy and cheap way to keep the thieves away and not plan to tow for a while. 

Install an alarm 

Install an alarm and make a racket when anyone breaks into your tiny house. It gives the neighbors the opportunity to call you or even the police in case of attempted theft. You can get affordable as well as expensive motorhome alarms in the market. 

Door and window locks 

Build your tiny house with a high-quality door and window system. Breaking into a tiny house gets difficult if you design the home, keeping safety and security in mind right from the beginning. Secure the door with a good locking system for optimal security. Bump-proof, deadbolt locks are ideal for tiny houses. Talk to a builder to learn more about the door and window security systems. 

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Use smart technology – Motion Lights

Install motion lights to scare away the thieves. These lights illuminate the hiding places around the tiny house and can stop the thieves in their tracks. Motion lights can make a thief think twice before stealing, and the best part is that the lights run on batteries and need no electrical wiring. 

Final Words 

Build your tiny home and get the structure customized and secured by the builders. Connect with established tiny home builders through TinyHouseMe to get priority service.

Proven Designing Tips for Tiny Houses to Ensure Better Health

build your own tiny house

Over the years, the tiny home movement has embraced massive popularity across the United States. Not only individuals but even families have also begun shifting to tiny houses. There are various benefits when you build your own tiny house; besides being less expensive, they are also better for the planet and ensure easy upkeep. However, tiny houses can also promote better health among dwellers. 

 Add Innovative Storage Solutions Under the Stairs

 By turning the tiny home stairs into storage drawers, you can prevent items like toys, clothes and outdoor gear from laying scattered all across your house. Consider adding cabinet doors and cubbies to store your coats and shoes. You can even think of adding a closet for your seasonable wardrobe and seasonings. It is possible to turn your tiny house roomier with some strategic design tips and patience.

Create Under-Seating storage

 We all need the best storage hacks when living in tiny homes. In that case, you can consider investing in an in-built drawer equipped with seats and cubbies. Such seating solutions help you to keep your living space tidy and organized.

How to Optimize Every Square Foot of the Tiny House?

Kitchen

You can turn to different storage solutions when you build your own tiny house, like installing hooks inside your cupboards or incorporating cabinet dividers and magnets to store your kitchenware, seasoning jars, and condiments. For example, you might have to organize your cabinet if you need clarification about where to store your fresh vegetables, meat, and eggs. This way, you can use the refrigerator to store the perishable items while shifting most of the other foods inside the cabinets.

Bathrooms

Taking care of yourself also includes looking after your skin, teeth, and eyes. For example, you might have to make the most of your bathroom space to access all the important supplies and tools for a stronger vision, healthier smile, and clear skin.

Bringing in More Plants to Your House

Indoor plants are always popular to improve indoor air quality besides breathing life into houses. Thanks to the plants, one can breathe in toxin-free air, which is fresher and cleaner than before. Adding plants to your house in different corners and places can also benefit from allergy relief. Besides adding to your indoor’s aesthetic appeal, indoor plants are also powerful in adding unmatched liveliness to your tiny house.

Keep your Tiny House Clutter-Free and Clean

One of the primary ways of feeling better, even in a tiny house, is to de-clutter it.

If you are unsure about how to start de-cluttering your tiny house, then here are a few tips that you can put to use:

  • Get rid of unused and old items stacked under the bed or at various corners.
  • Count on digital copies of the documents meant instead of preserving hard copies of the same.
  • Avoid shopping for new items unless you need them.
  • Choose to either rent or borrow things over buying them.

Maintaining a clean house wouldn’t only ensure better health amongst the dwellers and keep your pets safe from rodents, fleas, and other pests. 

Allow in Maximum Light

Another fail-proof tip for improving the chances of ensuring better health inside a tiny house is to use maximum natural light. One of the advantages of living in a tiny house is the reduced utility bill. You will need less electricity consumption when staying in a small space. 

However, you can even slack down on that usage by allowing maximum natural light through the windows. So when you build your tiny house, incorporate sufficient windows. Natural light doesn’t only improve your overall mood but also adds feelings of happiness, besides boosting your body’s vitamin-D production.

When you use the right elements, tiny houses can be an excellent option for optimal health. Build your own tiny house using these tips to ensure a happier, cleaner, and healthier life for years to come.