The US has been seeing a scarcity of almost seven million affordable houses since 2019. Global health issues in 2020 drove prices even higher and may remain high for some time. The Ascent reports that the average cost of a house in California is $683,996. There aren’t many options for the average Joe or Jane. It may be worth considering living in a tiny home. What started out as a social movement may be the practical solution for those looking to buy homes they can afford and here are the reasons why.
The Price Is Right
Building a tiny home in California will cost between $40,000 to $100,000 — around $500,000 less than the average cost of a regular home. With an area of up to 540 square feet only, it’s expected that utilities will cost significantly less than a standard-sized home. Tiny home buyers may not need a mortgage. If they do, their monthly payments will considerably be lower. Taxes, insurance, maintenance costs will naturally diminish as well.
Not Just A Trend
Downsizing and minimalism started trending as an increasing number of people started to realize that they can live with less. A simple lifestyle in a smaller home can bring long-term benefits not only to the homeowners but to the planet as well. Having limited space will help people realize what they really need and move away from an excessive way of life. The philosophy behind tiny home living emphasizes contentment with little and truly leading an engaged life. It’s also very eco-friendly. Smaller homes mean less energy consumption by as much as 45% naturally resulting in a decrease in carbon footprint.
Facing Challenges
Building tiny homes is not legal in all states as some consider them as safety hazards or a nuisance. California, however, is tiny home-friendly. There are tiny home communities in San Diego, Sierra Nevada, and Sonoma Valley. Los Angeles has yet to see a tiny home neighborhood although it is permitted to build smaller homes as accessory dwelling units (ADUs). An ADU shares a lot with a bigger home and some homeowners built a tiny home on their lot to lease it out. Living in tiny homes may also be very difficult for people with accessibility needs or multi-generational families. The cost of building a tiny house may be lower than building a traditional one but may be problematic for those who don’t own lots.
Modification of The Philosophy
Slightly veering away from the original philosophy, tiny homes have been built in some communities to help address social justice. The Hope of the Valley Rescue Mission has just built its newest shelter in North Hollywood. Aptly called Tiny Home Village, the shelter houses residents needing a hand-up from homelessness.
Tiny homes may not be the only answer to the current US housing crisis, but it is one solution that can mitigate the problem. It may be the answer to those whose budgets are limited and are willing to live a simpler lifestyle.