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A GROWING number of Americans are turning to tiny homes as a more affordable house option amid soaring house prices and rising cost of living expenses.
Tiny homes are appealing for many people, offering a solution for low-cost, minimalist living.
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But experts say there are a number of things to think about before committing to the major purchase.
Tiny home enthusiast Erin Hybart has shared her top tips for consumers to consider before buying a tiny home.
- Check regulations in your state to see whether you need a permit as this varies from state to state
- Think carefully about how much storage you need
- Plan ahead and get organized by talking to other tiny home owners
- Be careful of scams by researching the builder to make sure they are reputable
According to Hybart, who is a realtor in Louisiana and has sold smaller homes less than 600 feet squared, rules and regulations for tiny homes vary between each state so shoppers should do their research before buying one.
The rules governing tiny homes also vary depending on whether the tiny home is on a permanent foundation or on wheels.
Hybart said to “always check local regulations to make sure they comply.”
Homes on permanent foundations typically require permits and must meet local building codes, which can differ widely by state and local jurisdiction
Erin Hybart
Hybart said all consumers should also think carefully about how much storage they might need, and talk to other tiny home owners before buying one for themselves.
Tiny home owners may be able to share tips on challenges they faced and what they would have done differently.
Storage must be prioritized when building a tiny home, and Hybart said shoppers should get creative like putting items under beds or in cabinets.
Vertical storage or using even the ceiling space may be necessary.
“Planning can save you from costly mistakes and help you create something that fits your lifestyle,” she said.
Hybart lived in an RV when she was growing up while her parents were building their home.
She is passionate about smaller spaces in the way they “offer and encourage a simpler, more intentional way of living.”
“It bought us closer, taught us what truly mattered and helped us build stronger relationships,” she said.
“We spent more time outdoors and unplugged.
“We had the best times just eating outdoors after work and enjoying the sunsets.”
SCAM WATCH
But Hybart warned consumers need to be careful of scams and fraud when buying a tiny home.
The warnings come after The U.S. Sun revealed concern for “parasitic types” ripping people off from the tiny home movement founder.
Jay Shafer created the tiny home movement out of necessity when he found himself homeless in the 1990s.
Shafter said consumers should be “aware of everything” when purchasing a tiny home, with a number of sellers co-opting the terminology to rip people off and make money for themselves.
“The tiny house movement has, like any seemingly great thing, a lot of parasitic types which have stepped in and are ripping people off under the guise of being part of the tiny house movement,” he said.
Hybart agreed, saying that a lot of people were “trying to run scams” under the guise of being part of the tiny home phenomenon.
She urged consumers to make sure the builder or contractor was reputable and to check all reviews.
“Research any builder or contractor thoroughly. Check reviews, verify credentials, and ask for references,” Hybart said.
“Consumer fraud can be an issue, so working with reputable and experienced builders is crucial to avoid scams.”
