If you’ve ever considered living in a tiny house, you may have been drawn by the idea of simplicity, financial freedom, and a closer connection to nature. But what is the reality of tiny house living? In this post, we’ll explore the unfiltered experiences of Stacy, who shares her journey of tiny house living through her YouTube channel, Casa Duro.
The Financial Reality
Stacy chose to have her tiny house custom-built by a professional builder, which came at a higher cost than if she had built it herself. The total cost of her house was $106,000 CAD, significantly higher than her initial budget of $80,000.
In addition to the upfront cost of the tiny house, Stacy also faced several unexpected expenses, such as setting up the foundation, propane tanks, satellite internet, and insurance. Although her monthly lease is less than her previous rent, these additional costs mean she is not saving as much money as she initially thought.
Her advice for others considering tiny house living is to have a buffer in your budget and be prepared for unforeseen costs down the road.
Finding a Parking Spot
One of the biggest challenges Stacy faced was finding a suitable parking spot for her tiny house. With no prior experience in this area, she had to navigate a complicated landscape of zoning regulations and landowner concerns.
After much searching, Stacy finally found a spot in a campground/trailer park, which provided her with the necessary amenities and a sense of community. She advises those considering tiny house living to start looking for a parking space even before choosing a builder, as it can be a difficult and time-consuming process.
Adjusting to a New Lifestyle
Transitioning from city living to a tiny house in a more rural setting was a significant adjustment for Stacy. She had to obtain a driver’s license and learn to navigate the challenges of living off-grid, such as managing propane tanks and satellite internet.
Despite these challenges, Stacy has come to appreciate the peace and quiet of her new surroundings, the close connection to nature, and the opportunities for outdoor activities. Over time, she has grown more enamored with her tiny house lifestyle and can’t imagine returning to city living.
Lessons Learned
Through her YouTube channel, Stacy shares the lessons she’s learned along the way, such as the importance of having a proper ergonomic setup for her home office, optimizing her kitchen for both cooking and yoga, and navigating the legal aspects of tiny house living.
Her experiences offer valuable insights for others considering a tiny house lifestyle, helping them to understand the realities and challenges they may face.
In conclusion, tiny house living can offer many benefits, but it’s essential to be aware of the financial realities, parking challenges, and lifestyle adjustments involved. By understanding these aspects and preparing accordingly, you can make the transition to tiny house living a smoother and more enjoyable experience.