One of the latest and most exciting trends in housing, tiny homes provide an affordable and convenient living space that is ideal for first-time homeowners. While they may not be for everyone, there are plenty of things to love about tiny homes.
What Makes Tiny Homes Different
A tiny home (or house) is a living place that makes efficient use of space to fit all the amenities you would expect to find into a much smaller space than a traditional home. Many tiny homes are built from prefabricated structures, such as containers, while other tiny homes are custom-built from the ground up to fit on trailers or in small lots.
Many people use tiny houses as vacation homes, hunting lodges, or as their own mobile homes. They can also serve as home offices or recreation rooms that are separate from the owner’s primary home. However, some people choose to stay in tiny homes as a permanent residence because of the lower cost and environmental benefits that tiny homes bring.
The smallest tiny homes can start at around 100 sq. feet, while larger ones can range up to around 600 sq. feet. While that may seem like a very small amount of space, a well-made tiny home is full of innovative designs and appliances to make it possible to move around and get comfortable for many people. If you’ve never been inside a tiny home, think about a camper or motor home. Some of them can be quite cramped, but a camping trailer that makes ideal use of space can be very livable.
Tiny homes are not just small; they're smart. Modern features in tiny homes often include efficient storage solutions, multi-functional furniture, and cutting-edge technology to make the best use of space. The focus is on creating a comfortable and functional living environment without excess.
Most tiny houses have custom options available that allow you to choose the options that work best with your lifestyle. Would you rather have extra storage space instead of a dishwasher? How about a toilet/shower combo so you can have a larger bedroom? When you reach out to your tiny home provider, you’ll be able to ask plenty of questions and see what options are available so that you can have the experience that you’re looking for.
One of the biggest reasons that tiny homes have become so popular in recent years is how efficient they are. Tiny homes eliminate a significant amount of waste in the construction process, and the homes are far more energy efficient than traditional homes. The cost of heating or air conditioning a tiny home is significantly lower than standard houses.
Tiny homes from shipping containers have insulation and energy-efficient doors and windows that will prevent heat loss during the winter. They are also built with energy-efficient appliances that will keep your energy bill down.
The efficiency of tiny homes doesn’t just improve your energy bill, it also has a significant positive impact on the environment. Tiny homes require fewer materials and labor to make than standard homes, which lowers the carbon footprint of the construction process. Not only does their small size and efficient design lower the energy requirement, but many tiny homes can also be powered with sustainable technologies, such as solar panels, windmills, and even rain harvesting systems.
Are Tiny Homes Legal in Michigan?
Yes! Tiny homes are legal in Michigan, though there are laws governing them, just as there are with traditional homes. In addition to the standard building and zoning codes, tiny houses for two people must be at least 250 sq. feet, while those housing four people must be at least 450 sq. feet.
Michigan Tiny Home Laws
The exact laws governing tiny homes in your area will depend on the county and municipality that you live in. These laws will determine where and how you can place your home, including the size of the lot, proximity to the road and other homes, and other factors. While it is illegal to live in a camping trailer or motor home permanently in Michigan, there are currently no such laws regarding tiny homes.
If you’re considering buying a tiny home in Michigan, it's a good idea to thoroughly research the laws in your area. You may contact your local county or city offices to find out their laws regarding tiny homes. This is especially important because the recent popularity of tiny homes in Michigan means that many governing bodies have only recently made (or have yet to make) changes to their laws.
You can also ask the experts at Preferred Homes who work with Michigan tiny home laws every day, especially in our coverage area of West and Mid-Michigan.
The Benefits of Shipping Container Homes
Tiny shipping container homes are one of the most popular choices available because of their affordability and availability. Shipping containers are inherently robust, which provides a solid foundation for a secure living space. They can also be designed quickly, with the specific interior layout, finish, and appliances that you’re looking for. Plus, shipping container homes are highly portable, which makes them cost-effective to install and easy to relocate when you need to.
Buy a New Tiny Home Near You Today
Preferred Homes has a range of high-quality shipping container tiny homes for sale in Michigan. Reach out to our staff today to for a free quote on our affordable container homes.