Many Americans are taught bigger is better, especially Texans. However, that term may soon come to a halt for a while as tiny homes are on the move. As many people lose their homes to foreclosure or the bad economy, they are downsizing into much smaller homes of less than 1000 square feet. Some of the homes in the tiny home movement are actually less than 100 square feet. Even I couldn't imagine that until I went online and toured one for myself.
There is a whole new meaning to up close and personal for a family in a home of less than 1000 square 
feet or even a single person in a 100 square foot home. However, many people are opting for these homes because they are energy efficient, easy to maintain and cost less to purchase. For these very reasons, there has been a 20% increase in construction in these types of homes in the last year.
There appears to be a growing demand for less expensive homes that will minimize one's footprint, both structural and carbon. This is hard to believe, but tiny home sizes range from 70 square feet to 800 square feet and can range in cost from $20,000 to $90,000 to build.
Many of the tiny homes you will find resemble cabins and some resemble birdhouses. All have wooden exteriors and high pitched roofs for a more "homey" feel. All tiny homes are also built on wheels, not a foundation, because of their size. So you can take your house with you wherever you go. Each tiny home is pre-wired for electricity and pre-plumbed.
If you're wondering about the interior of the homes, you won't be disappointed. The interior is usually finished with pine and features vaulted ceilings to make it appear bigger. The bathroom is complete with a toilet, sink and full shower. The kitchen includes a two burner stove, a bar sink, an under the counter refrigerator and an instant hot water heater. For storage issues, overhead space has been utilized so the space functions to maximize all the tiny home's usable space.
The homes are also extremely well insulated, making them easy to heat and cool. Most homeowners of tiny homes only pay $10 for an average energy bill. Even I find that one hard to imagine, but it seems to be true.
Now, I personally can't see many folks in Texas going that tiny. Maybe less than 1000 square feet, but less than 100? Anyway, it's still interesting how so much can go into such tiny spaces.
Realtor® Connie Taylor - Amarillo, Texas Real Estate
Amarillo, Texas Community Information
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