Why Are Tiny Homes Not a Good Idea When They Actually Are?

You can probably tell I think tiny houses are a good idea. After all, I’ve ordered one for myself. But there are many reasons why tiny homes might not be the right fit for everyone. Here are some of the most common concerns:

Lack of space: Tiny homes are, by definition, small. This can be a problem for people who need a lot of space, such as families with children or people who have hobbies that require a lot of storage space.

Privacy: Tiny homes can also be cramped, which can make it difficult to find privacy. This can be a problem for couples or people who work from home.

Mobility: Tiny homes on wheels are not considered real estate, so they can be challenging to get financing for. They also require special permission to park in many areas.

Regulations: Tiny homes may not meet local zoning guidelines or building codes. This can make it tricky to find a place to put them.

Maintenance: Tiny homes require more maintenance than traditional homes, as they are more prone to mould and mildew.

Climate control: Tiny homes can be difficult to heat and cool, as they (tend) to have less insulation than traditional homes.

Social isolation: Living in a tiny house can make it difficult to socialise, as you have less space to entertain guests.

Tiny living is not allowed in this area!

But what about the benefits?

Of course, there are also many benefits to living in a tiny house. These include:

-- Affordability: Prefab tiny houses and small homes are often much more affordable than traditional homes.

-- Sustainability: Tiny homes generally require less energy and resources to operate than traditional homes.

-- Minimalism: Tiny homes can force you to declutter and live a more minimalist lifestyle. (Great for some of us!)

Freedom: Tiny homes can give you the freedom to travel or live off the grid.

A big tiny house with almost a second floor of extra space.

Let's address the concerns

-- Lack of space? Probably true. Having said that, you can purchase some rather large tiny homes too. Like the gigantic tiny house with multiple bedroom lofts in the image above…

-- Privacy? Use curtains, blinds, folding Japanese-style screens, plants or other vertical elements to make your little space private.

-- Mobility? Is it difficult to get financing for tiny homes? Maybe. I see a lot of tiny home builders who offer (1-7 years) financing through HandyPay. Often all it takes is a small initial deposit, then pay the tiny off in instalments.

-- Regulations? Where we are (central Victoria, Australia) the shire council has just amended bylaws so that tiny homes can be allowed on properties (as long as there's another permanent building already on that property). But yes, regulations can be challenging, depending on where you are.

-- Maintenance? The majority of small home builders and manufacturers now build with eco-sustainability in mind.

Double tempered glass, recycled insulation for walls and ceilings, Weathertex walls - and in the case of the Nestron prefab homes, steel and aluminium construction (fireproof and earthquake resistant). Timber and hemp walls are available too.

-- Climate control? Not yet with every tiny home, but it’s coming. I’m seeing more and more small home builders offer smart systems where you use your voice to control appliances, and smart window glass and remote control heating systems exist and are being adopted.

-- Social isolation? Depends on where you are... I'm sure the tiny home village life is a thing that we'll end up seeing way more of. Tiny home communities seem to grow in people's backyards like trees. And we have big backyards around this area!

backyard tiny house recycled corrugated iron

A backyard tiny house with rusted and recycled corrugated iron exterior.

Your own tiny house movement

Ultimately, whether or not a tiny house is a good idea for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you are considering living in a tiny, it is important to carefully weigh the pros and cons before making a decision.

Here are some additional considerations that you may want to think about:

-- Your lifestyle: Do you spend a lot of time at home? Do you have hobbies that require a lot of space?

-- Your budget: How much can you afford to spend on a tiny house?

-- Your location: Where do you want to live? Are there any zoning or building restrictions in your area?

-- Your personality: Are you comfortable living in a small space? Are you willing to give up some of your possessions?

If you are still considering living in a tiny home, I recommend doing some research and talking to people who have lived in tiny homes.

This will help you get a better understanding of the pros and cons of the tiny lifestyle!

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