The survey results reveal several common themes regarding the acceptance of living in a tiny home, particularly one that is portable like those from Elon Musk’s Boxabl company. A significant portion of respondents (approximately 50%) expressed conditional interest, primarily hinging on their current life circumstances such as family size and lifestyle preferences. Many indicated they would consider it if they lived alone or were younger, highlighting the appeal of affordability and flexibility. However, concerns about space limitations, comfort for children or pets, and lack of privacy were frequently mentioned as barriers. Additionally, some respondents appreciated the minimalist and modern design but emphasized the importance of price and practicality.
So, now that we’ve established that Tiny homes have some limitations, and people are on the fence about purchasing one, here’s what you should keep in-mind if you do purchase one!
1. Size Isn’t Everything: It’s All About Efficiency
Yahoo claims that tiny homes, defined as under 600 square feet with an average of 225 square feet, are too cramped to be worth it. Sure, they might not fit your grand piano or your extensive collection of garden gnomes, but let’s be real—how much space does one really need to live comfortably? If Marie Kondo has taught us anything, it’s that less clutter leads to more joy. Plus, cleaning a tiny home is like playing real-life Tetris—every piece has its perfect place, and it takes fewer steps to vacuum than it does to find Waldo in a cluttered mansion.
2. Cost: More Bang for Your Buck (And Less of It!)
According to Rocket Mortgage, tiny homes can cost anywhere from $8,000 to $150,000. That’s quite a range, but even at the upper end, it’s a fraction of what you’d pay for a traditional home. Think of all the money you’ll save—enough to buy a lifetime supply of avocado toast or maybe even a small yacht (which might be bigger than your house, but hey, priorities).
3. Maintenance: Size Doesn’t Matter (When It Comes to Quality)
Sure, tiny homes might require more upkeep due to their compact size. But think of it this way: it’s like having a pet hamster instead of a Great Dane. Both need attention, but one fits comfortably in your lap while the other needs a stable big enough to house a pony. Invest in quality materials and proper insulation, and your tiny home will weather the storms (literally and metaphorically) just as well as any McMansion.
4. Claustrophobia: Embrace Hygge, Even in Winter
Andrew Fortune warns of winter claustrophobia in tiny homes, but isn’t that what blankets, high ceilings, and open design are for? Embrace the cozy life! Tiny homes can incorporate very high ceilings, creating an atmosphere of spaciousness and comfort that rivals larger homes with standard 8-foot ceilings. Besides, if you’re feeling the need for space, just step outside—it’s not like you have a sprawling estate to wander through. Winter in a tiny home is an opportunity to channel your inner Scandinavian and fully embrace hygge—candles, fuzzy socks, and all.
5. Resale Value: It’s Not Just About Square Footage
Resale value concerns? Pshh, tell that to the tiny home enthusiasts who have turned their mini abodes into Instagram sensations. It’s all about finding the right market. Plus, tiny homes are eco-friendly, trendy, and appeal to minimalist millennials who value experiences over square footage. Who needs a big yard when you can have a rooftop garden or a portable hot tub?
6. Quality Control: Craftsmanship Comes in Small Packages
Erin Hybart warns of inconsistent quality in tiny homes, but that’s like saying there’s a difference between a hand-knitted sweater and one from a discount store. Custom-built tiny homes are like bespoke suits—they fit perfectly and make you look damn good. Mass-produced models? Well, they might have a few loose threads, but hey, even Gucci has an outlet store.
7. Financing: Small Loans, Big Dreams
Seamus Nally talks about mortgage woes, but isn’t flexibility what dreams are made of? Who needs a traditional mortgage when you can fund your tiny palace with a personal loan and be debt-free sooner? It’s like choosing between a fixed menu and à la carte—you might not get the appetizer, but you can definitely afford dessert.
In conclusion, tiny homes are more than just a living space—they’re a lifestyle choice. Embrace the simplicity, relish the coziness, and laugh in the face of those who doubt the power of living small. Tiny homes offer the opportunity to live comfortably in a space that can be as inviting as a small standard house or large condo, enhanced by the airy feel of high ceilings. They allow for a life lived fully, unencumbered by the weight of long-term mortgage payments, fostering a sense of freedom to explore and experience the world. So, to anyone who says tiny homes are a mistake, we say: challenge accepted, with a side of tiny home charm!
Poll verbatims
1 – No, we’re very happy in the three-bedroom ranch home we own.
2 – Yes. I think there is a lot of demand for this, but people are too greedy and don’t want people to live by them.
3 – Yeah it would be a good felling to be able to transport my house to the location I want, a good idea
4 – I would like to, but I would want to make sure that my child was comfortable and enriched enough living that lifestyle.
5 – I would not want to live in a small house that is portable and not durable.
6 – I’ve thought about it before, and it would probably be pretty similar to living in a one-bedroom apartment which I have done for years, so I think yes, I would live in one. The question is finding a place to put one.
7 – Yes, I would consider living in a tiny home like Elon Musk’s Boxabl, especially if it could be easily transported, as it offers flexibility, minimalist living, and affordability while being efficient and compact.
8 – Yes, i dont prefer excess, i dont think i would trust anything of musks but the concept i really do like.
9 – Absolutely! I wish they sold something like these in my area.
10 – No, I think it will be too small for my needs.
11 – I wouldn’t do that as an adult because it’s very basic and it doesn’t meet my current life goals.
12 – I’d have no interest in living in a tiny home. I like to have more space, as well as my own personal space. I wouldn’t do well with a tiny home, especially living with someone else
13 – This home deign looks efficient and modern, I would consider it depending on the price and mobility.
14 – Yes, I would definitely live in one. I think it would be the perfect size for me.
15 – Yes, I would. Seems like a great way to beat the crazy house prices these days.
16 – I would if it was that or being homeless. I personally think that type of living would be for younger people starting out, not someone in their 40s.
17 – I might someday, but not now. I like to have a lot of space and I don’t want to downsize my possessions. I like having guests stay overnight and allow them some privacy. I like having lots of room for meal preparation. Also, I like having pets, and I don’t think they’d be real happy in a tiny home.
18 – Yes. All the room anyone could need.
19 – Well for me its not practical I feel calsterphobia. the appeal of affordability and portability is undeniable but I value having a dedicated space for work, relaxation and hosting guests.
20 – If I were to be living alone or single without being married with kids, I could consider living in it.
21 – If it’s affordable, I would certainly consider it. Housing is far too expensive these days!
22 – if the price is right i would consider it. it makes a lot of sense to downsize and the ability to move it around would be really nice. but it comes down to price. i see dome that cost the same as a house that is stupid if it was affordably priced then yes.
23 – Yes if I was living by myself, why not? No need to have more space than you need
24 – If I lived alone I would do it in a minute. I think it looks great and expenses would be less.
25 – I live in a 3000+ sq ft home now, so I think I’d have a very hard time of it. However, the concept is interesting, and the portability is a cool feature. I’d consider it but would maybe want to do a month trial or something first. Maybe do a rental for a month to see if I could make it work.
26 – It is just a little too small for me and the is no privacy in the bathroom. The kitchen and living room would need to be about 4 feet longer, It would need a place for company to sit comfortably. The table would need to be made out of wood. it would have to be on a piece of property where I had some privacy and greenery.
27 – Yes if there were no better options, it looks clean but extremely cramped
28 – I would not have enough space to live in a tiny home, however I like the idea of portability and the idea that maybe it could be more affordable. I think that maybe if it was more modular and rooms could be added and storage added to it, it could be more desirable. maybe with premade rooms or sections.
29 – No, I would never accept such an arrangement. There is enough room on this earth for everyone to have a decent home. We should not have to live in cages like this.
30 – I would consider it if I lived alone. Since I have a husband and 2 children, this would not be feasible.
