Want A "Tiny House"? Try These Cheaper Alternatives First!

Are you keen on joining the ranks of the "tiny house" movement? It can be a more expensive and complicated endeavor than many are aware of. Between the building and decorating costs of a custom "tiny home" and the time involved in finding the right one for you, your minimalist dream can be put on hold. But there's good news! There are several less costly alternatives to a true "tiny home" that are often more affordable and easier to come by. Here are 3 options for any budget.

Park Models. The alternative that comes closest to the "tiny home" is what is known as a park model recreational vehicle or recreational park trailer, like one from Resort Homes. Park models are a sort of cross between a single-wide mobile home and an RV. They are the same short, narrow layout as an RV and are easily towed, but they are laid out more like a home and designed to sit in one location for a length of time. Park models come in many different layouts, but must be less than 400 square feet, according to the Recreational Vehicle Industry Association. Finding a place to park your new home may be your biggest challenge with this option. 

Studio Apartment. Studio apartments are somewhat easy to find and can be inexpensive to move into due to the fact that you're renting instead of buying. These small apartments are generally one large room with an attached bathroom. The kitchen is small and located in the same general space as the bedroom/living room combination. How you break up and decorate these zones is up to you. Studio apartment living is a good way to transition to a "tiny house" from a large one and come with little to no maintenance requirements. 

Rent a Room. Another renting option can be even cheaper, but may be a little too close for some people's comfort. Whether it's a room or a small basement or a loft over a garage, renting a small sleeping space without a lot of luxuries does leave you with little physical stuff to worry about if you're a traveler, student, artist or budding entrepreneur. This option may work best when you can rent space from friends or family. Rented rooms come with the disadvantage of having to share a kitchen (and less often, a bathroom), but they achieve the main goals of "tiny home" living: less expense, more freedom and little material buildup.

By looking at the other options you may have instead of a traditional "tiny house," you may find an even better way for you personally to downsize and enjoy your life more.