Tiny homes have made a big impact on housing. More than just a home-design trend, micro abodes have  created their own social movement. TV shows, publications, and construction companies are focused solely on the trend. And it appears that tiny homes are gaining momentum as their evolution continues to shape the housing industry. This new way of living is truly transforming how we think about housing.

Tiny Homes Provide Financial Freedom

Tiny homes significantly reduce living space. And that comes with a reduction in living costs. At as small as 100 feet and ranging up to 400 feet, tiny homes can go far to cut home costs. For most Americans, between one-third and one-half of total income is spent on housing. But what if you could eliminate a mortgage? That is a huge benefit to many tiny homeowners. Plus, those who’ve gone small gain big in benefits. More disposable income, reduced financial pressures, and increased work flexibility all come from tiny ownership.

Go Tiny and Go Green

For many who choose to go tiny, the welfare of the planet is at the center of that decision. While the average home releases 28,000 pounds of carbon dioxide per year, a tiny home releases only about 10% of that, or 2,000 pounds per year. Talk about a smaller carbon footprint! Add in choices such as reclaimed building materials and compostable toilets, and you can see the appeal for the environment.

Another green benefit is the push to minimize. After all, when your home size cuts down to a fraction of what it was before, you can’t buy a lot. Homeowners are forced to become mindful of their spending and their use, which is better for everyone, including the planet.

Live Anywhere with a Mobile Tiny Home

One of the huge benefits of a tiny home is the mobility factor. Since most are built on a trailer, they can be easily hitched and relocated without much thought. If you have to give it a label, call a tiny home a mobile home. While not always falling into the manufactured category, they do give homeowners far more options than a typical brick-and-mortar residence.

For those who are unimpeded by location, a tiny mobile home represents freedom. See the country. Visit extended family. Follow fabulous weather. Options abound when your home can be moved on a whim.

The Future of Tiny Living

The road ahead looks good for tiny homes.

Demand for smaller homes is being driven by our nation’s two largest and most powerful generations: Baby Boomers and Millennials. Boomers seek to downsize, motivated by life-stage milestones including retirement and becoming empty nesters. Millennials are looking for affordable starter homes and are more sensitive to environmental issues. Tiny houses offer advantages that have strong appeal to both generations.

As more focus is turned toward environmental concerns and eco-friendly living, tiny homes offer a real solution for those seeking greener housing alternatives. Additionally, tiny homes will continue to attract homeowners who want to live more simply by adopting a minimalist lifestyle.

Financials also check the right box. Smaller homes actually appreciate in value faster than larger ones. According to Realtor.com, homes less than 1,200 square feet have appreciated 7.5% per year over the past five years. Alternatively, those larger than 2,400 square feet only appreciated at about half that rate at 3.8% per year.

A Solution to Homelessness

The environment and individual preference aren’t the only reasons to go tiny. More and more cities and communities around the country are experimenting with tiny homes as affordable solutions for homelessness. The concept is fueled by the “Housing First” policy strategy, which prioritizes safe, stable housing as the first step toward solving homelessness. The next steps are addressed once housing is in place.

Do you see a tiny home in your future? If exploring tiny home living is of interest—whether for yourself, your family, or your community—MAK Construction can help bring that vision to life. Contact us to learn how we can help.