The Tiny Home Phenomenon
If you’ve tuned into HGTV recently, you’ve likely stumbled upon one of their many shows about tiny homes. These small accommodations have swept the nation, and many people are now looking to downsize for their next home buying endeavor. These small houses have made such an impact on not only people’s personal well-being but the nation as a whole. Many cities around the world have embraced the concept of tiny homes as a solution to homelessness. Whether it’s for personal or communal gain, these tiny homes have swept the nation and are likely not leaving anytime soon.
Personal Benefit
There are an abundant amount of reasons that people are choosing to live small. The main benefit to having a smaller home is the financial savings it provides. People who have downsized to tiny homes have saved money in the buying process and beyond. Tiny homes average selling point is between $19,000 and $50,000, over half the cost of a standard single-family home. Due to its size, these homes also save on almost all utility bills. For those who have a stationary tiny home, you are looking at an average savings of 50% on your electric and gas bills. For those with the ability, splurging on items such as cars and vacations becomes more feasible when living in a tiny home. There are endless benefits that come with being a tiny home owner. Everything from sustainably to eliminating clutter is achievable when choosing to downsize to a tiny home.
Community Gain
Our very own Seattle is making great strides at putting the tiny house phenomenon to a good use. As affordable housing is a constant concern for many cities around the world and such locations are struggling to find answers. Seattle is making strides, through tiny homes, to improve homelessness. Earlier this year, it was found that there were only around 100 affordable housing apartments available in the Seattle area. This was nowhere near enough to accommodate the number of homeless citizens in our city. Seattle city council members agree that tiny homes are a more appropriate solution to homelessness. The tiny homes that the city is providing for its homeless residents are sustainable and sufficient living situation. As of now, there are five communities that exist. The tiny homes cost around $2,000 and are assembled by volunteers. If the expansion of tiny home communities continues, the city can expect to a decrease in homelessness. This means fewer people sleeping in tents or cars and more people getting their lives back.
