With escalating mortgage rates and housing costs, the appeal of compact living spaces persists, providing a budget-friendly, minimalist lifestyle alternative. If you’ve contemplated embracing a smaller lifestyle, you might be brimming with queries about effective strategies and how this way of living truly functions. Below, professionals delve into some of the most commonly posed questions surrounding the tiny home experience.
Dominic Sims serves as the CEO of the International Code Council. Erin Hybart is a realtor in Louisiana, and Tammy Sons is a proud owner of a tiny home.
Exactly how tiny can a tiny home be? Local building codes influence the size parameters for tiny homes, yet there are certain standard benchmarks. The International Residential Code (IRC) defines tiny homes as single-family dwellings under 400 square feet. Dominic Sims, CEO of the International Code Council, clarifies that despite their diminutive size, tiny homes often meet the same criteria as traditional residential homes.
“Structures under this size can employ provisions from the IRC that cater to smaller spaces, such as reduced ceiling heights and loft areas,” Sims explains. “Even if a home surpasses the IRC’s tiny home threshold, a homeowner or community may still classify it as a tiny home. Generally, unless the local jurisdiction specifies otherwise, the home would still need to adhere to the same standards as other homes in the area.”
Erin Hybart, a Louisiana realtor and a tiny home aficionado, notes that tiny homes are designed to include spaces for dining, bathing, and sleeping.
“Tiny houses typically span from 100 to 400 square feet. A mobile tiny house must be less than 8 feet by 6.5 inches wide and 13 feet by 5 inches high,” Hybart remarks. “For those on a foundation, various dimensions are possible, with 20 by 20 feet or 16 by 24 feet being the most common dimensions I’ve observed in research and personal experience.”
The price of tiny homes can vary widely based on the materials used, customization choices, and inclusion of high-tech features. “A DIY tiny home could cost as little as $20,000, while professionally constructed homes often fall between $50,000 and $150,000,” Hybart states. “Homes with more extensive features or upscale finishes can cost significantly more. A portable tiny home requires special items for mobility, which can increase its cost.”
Tammy Sons constructed her tiny home as a second residence in Tennessee and notes that the most frequent inquiry she receives about tiny living is about cost. “We spent $22,000 on our tiny house, which included wiring, plumbing, installing drywall, and insulation. The pre-fabricated aspects accounted for the remainder. It would have been $12,000 more if we had purchased a home that was already wired and ready to go, but we preferred to customize it ourselves.”
As with conventional single-family homes, you can opt to hire a developer, build it yourself from scratch, or purchase a kit for DIY construction, each choice significantly affecting the cost.
Although the IRC outlines the maximum size for tiny homes, local municipalities may have additional regulations. Sims points out that various rules are based on how a tiny home will be used.
“Tiny houses used seasonally or as temporary dwellings may be subject to different standards,” he notes. “For example, structures like vacation cabins in the woods or recreational vehicles are subject to specific standards suited to their intended use.”
Hybart highlights that aside from the IRC, there are few national regulations. “Zoning laws for tiny houses are predominantly local, although some states have more accommodating regulations. For tiny homes on wheels, parking can be difficult due to some areas’ restrictions because the structure is regarded as a motor vehicle.”
To learn more about local regulations, it’s crucial to consult state, county, and city governments.
As tiny homes gain popularity, an increasing number of builders and manufacturers have entered the market. “You can purchase new or used tiny homes from manufacturers, individual sellers, or tiny home communities,” Hybart says. “Reputable builders include Tumbleweed Tiny House Co., Tiny Heirloom, and Timbercraft. Tiny home kits are an excellent choice for DIY enthusiasts who need guidance but wish to save money.”
Sons purchased her tiny home from local Mennonite craftsmen and has been satisfied with its durability and construction. “You can also buy used tiny homes; we’ve seen them on Facebook Marketplace at substantial discounts, but we chose to have ours built to our comfort standards,” Sons notes. Amazon also sells kits, though not all are of equal quality.
Tiny homes can be equipped with water and plumbing systems akin to standard single-family homes. “Some tiny homes on a permanent foundation can utilize standard utility hookups,” Hybart explains.
However, many tiny homes are situated on new land without municipal water and sewer connections, necessitating alternative arrangements. “Many mobile tiny homes use water tanks and composting toilets for waste if they’re on wheels,” Hybart adds. “These tanks need to be refilled and emptied, respectively. Sustainable options include rainwater harvesting and graywater systems for water conservation. I’ve seen amazing small water filtration systems capable of purifying rainwater for drinking and cooking.”
Sims points out that many tiny homes are designed with sustainability in mind. “For example, composting toilets are a popular choice for waste management, reducing water use and allowing for off-grid management,” he says. “These solutions must comply with local plumbing codes to ensure safety and effectiveness. The International Plumbing Code offers guidance on these systems, ensuring tiny homes remain functional and environmentally conscious.”
When it comes to electricity and energy, Sims suggests consulting the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) and the International Fire Code (IFC) for guidance.
Adapting to a life within a smaller space can be a challenge for the average person. To address this, efficient storage solutions are crucial. “Purchase ample storage options for under the beds, cabinets, and overhead areas,” Sons advises. “Minimize clutter by reducing comforters, clothing, and linens.”
Prioritize storage during the construction and design phase. “A more compact space will influence layout decisions and encourage creativity in space usage,” Hybart advises. “Maximize space with built-in storage, multi-functional furniture, and open layouts. Utilizing vertical storage and the ceiling space is essential to accommodate all the necessary functions.”
Experts agree that adjusting to living in a smaller space is also a factor. “Think about the lifestyle before making a commitment,” Hybert advises. “Tiny living means less space, fewer possessions, and often a simpler way of life.”
“The main consideration is whether you can downsize and either store half of your belongings or live without them,” Sons adds. “This is the most challenging aspect. After 40 years of marriage, I cherished many items that I wanted displayed all the time, so I couldn’t make the transition.”
The enthusiasm surrounding tiny home living often centers on redecorating a new space and imagining a simpler life, but there’s much more to it. This is why experts recommend newcomers to test the waters first.
“Consider renting a tiny house for a few months to acclimate to the space,” Hybart suggests. “It won’t be a guarantee, but it will provide an idea and allow your brain to adapt to the smaller space. If multiple people or pets will be living in the space, ensure everyone has their own personal area.”
Lastly, thoroughly research zoning laws, codes, and regulations. “It’s essential for prospective tiny homeowners and builders to investigate zoning laws and building codes in their desired location to confirm that tiny homes are permitted and comply with all regulatory requirements,” Sims advises.
