EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE BUYING A TINY HOUSE SHELL


Many people have downsized their living arrangements due to the tiny house movement. The social trend has been around for more than a decade, and its popularity is still growing.

Many Americans are looking for affordable options and are considering having their own tiny house. And you can’t actually blame them.

With TV series like Tiny House Nation showcasing the concept, there is no doubt that the popularity will only continue to grow.

And you may have stumbled on this page because you’re considering a tiny house of your own.  Don’t worry. We’ve got you covered!

A. ECO-FRIENDLY.

 Many people consider tiny homes eco-friendly, at least in terms of their house footprint. A typical tiny home is relatively small compared to traditional homes.

You can turn the remaining space into a garden if you own a large property. You may even choose to build several tiny homes.

Then, you can rent them to other small families or use one as your home office. You will be able to provide many homes to several families within a relatively small space.

Tiny homes allow many people to live in a smaller space, which will use less space for housing projects and more for green spaces.

B. AFFORDABILITY.

Constructing tiny homes costs less than traditional homes. You also do not need to buy large properties for it.

This means that you don’t need to pay as much as you would need to if you buy a traditional house.

Remember that paying less for your living arrangement is a step closer to financial freedom.

  • TINY HOUSE TRAILERS.

The price of empty shells for many base models starts at less than $10,000.

There are even those that cost around $5,000. But make no mistake, because your safety and comfort level will not be compromised, despite the low prices.

The shells are actually built from high-quality materials, and it is solid and durable.

You can even choose if you want your tiny home shell to be made with wood or steel framing.

The structures are so well-made that you will not lose your peace of mind living in them.

They still have the exemplary structural integrity to withstand the test of time.

  • SHED CONVERSION.

The cost of converting your shed or garage into a tiny home is more affordable.

The standard range starts at around $1,500, and it can go as expensive as $30,000. The average cost is $75.00 per square foot.

The variation in the prices depends on the materials that will be used. The type of amenities and the interior finishing can also affect the price.

That being said, paying for a tiny home will cost you less than paying for a traditional home.

It does not matter whether you prefer shed conversion or the tiny home trailer option. It is definitely more affordable.

There are even many cheap tiny house kits available on the market today. You just need to choose one based on your preferences and build it yourself.

THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE BUILDING YOUR TINY HOUSE SHELL

A. SHED OR GARAGE CONVERSION

Building your own tiny home is easier if you are simply converting your shed or garage. There are many available floor plans for tiny homes online that you can use as a basis.

Since you already have a dedicated space with exterior walls, you will just need to add an interior wall or two.

It will depend on your chosen tiny house plan. You can even do it on your own with the help of several friends.

If you do not want to do it yourself, you can always contact a builder. Builders like Jamaica Cottage Shop can help you build your own tiny shed homes.

B.  TINY HOME TRAILER

If you are planning to have a tiny home trailer, you will need the help of professional tiny home builders.

Building one by yourself is possible, but it will be difficult. This is why we recommend hiring a specialist for it.

5 FAMOUS TINY HOME BUILDERS IN THE UNITED STATES:

  • HUMMINGBIRD TINY HOUSING
  • MODERN TINY LIVING
  • TINY HOUSE BASIC
  • TINY MOUNTAIN HOUSES
  • MUSTARD SEED TINY HOMES

The most important part that you need to make sure is well-built is your tiny house shell.

It needs to be made from high-quality materials that can withstand the weather. The hard parts must be strong and durable, but not massive.

Many tiny home builders already have shells that are based on their own tiny house models. Often, you can just choose from them and have them customized based on your special needs.

If you want to customize your tiny house shell based on your specific needs and are looking for the highest standards of luxury, you can.

The starting point of the building process is the design consultation. During the consultation, you may tell the designer your preferences if you have any.

You will also need to provide them with details, like the size and location of your property.

Keep in mind that you will still need a property even if you are living in a trailer.

While it is true that tiny home trailers do have movable roots or wheels, you will still need a space for you to park them for an extended period of time.

A smaller space with an area of several square feet may be enough.

Going back to the design process, you will need to discuss with them your particular needs. By doing this, you will enjoy your tiny home living experience without worries.

  •  FRAMING AND EXTERIOR WALLS

Do you prefer a shell with steel framing? Or would you appreciate wood framing? What would be the look of your exterior walls?

Tiny home builders like Modern Tiny Living can help you with this concern.

These builders can explain to you the qualities of each material. With them, you can be assured that these parts will be built using the right materials.

This is because their tiny house shell build process is trustworthy.

  •  FOUNDATION

Tiny house trailers need a solid foundation, and these foundations will carry your home when you travel and take them to the open road.

It has to be solid and weatherproof because it will also serve as the base for your main floor.

Thankfully, there are builders like Tiny House Basics, and they can create the perfect trailer foundation for you.

Keep in mind that a strong shell builds confidence in one’s safety. Any owner with a tiny dream must have peace of mind.

Most of the builders will be able to provide you with several custom shells and tiny house designs. Make sure to check and study them properly.

Check if they are properly insulated or protected from the different weather conditions. Cell spray foam insulation is one of the most efficient for this type of development.

Check if your builder uses this or any other method. You will only know if you talk to them about it, and this is why you should actively participate in the entire process.

Once the shell has been created, you may now proceed with the interiors. Some builders offer custom interior design services for an additional cost.

If your builder offers this service, talk to them before the finished product is delivered to you.

FAQs

IS IT CHEAPER TO BUILD YOUR OWN TINY HOUSE?

Yes. Buying or building your own tiny house is cheaper compared to traditional homes. You can even use your credit card to pay for it in most cases.

HOW LONG DO TINY HOMES LAST?

The materials used and how they are constructed can also affect their durability. It can last for a couple of decades with regular and proper maintenance.

 SUMMARY

The Tiny House Movement is a popular trend that is being embraced by many people nowadays, and it’s both eco-friendly and affordable.

That being said, if you want to build or own one, many builders can assist you.

They can help you realize your dream of owning a tiny home.

D. Hahn

DIY guru, dad, husband, blogger. When I'm not creating life hacks I'm teaching my kids how to fix stuff after their dad breaks it.

Recent Posts