Loads of people have decided to downsize and get rid of their stuff. They have forgone the typical consumerist lifestyle and would rather not overpay for a mortgage on a house that needs to be big just to hold more stuff. There is a movement called the tiny house lifestyle in which people are choosing to live in houses the size of a small apartment.
If you want to live with less of a mortgage and spend less money on utilities then tiny house living is for you. The key is understanding how to go about it. You’ll need to understand the basics to get started. In this article, we will go over what you need to know so you can get the process started.
1 – Off-grid or not
Some people are so devoted to the idea of checking out the consumerist lifestyle that they opt to find a tiny house situated in the middle of nowhere.
This means living off the grid and having to fend for themselves when it comes to getting pure water and energy. Even though living off the grid can still provide the comforts of a modern house, it can be a bit of a challenge putting it all together.
For instance, you’ll need to provide a power supply. Most people will set up solar panels and batteries to be able to power their energy demand. This works in most places but there are times when there is no sun or there’s a storm. You’ll also need to have a portable generator to keep the lights on.
There is also the matter of sourcing water. Wells are an option for most people as the artesian method works in most areas. Rain collecting is also an option everywhere and is a great way to water the garden.
2 – Make the space work
Obviously, when you have less space to work with you have to make sure you aren’t overstuffing your house. It not only means having fewer belongings, but you have to use the space that you have more wisely.
The first thing to do is get the type of furniture that also offers storage. An ottoman is a good example as it can open up and store things like blankets and pillows.
Use the vertical space to your advantage and have lots of cabinets and shelves on the wall to keep your floor space available.
3 – Get organized
Part of utilizing the space well isn’t just making sure that you have plenty of areas to store things, but making sure you are also organized. Being organized makes sure that you are using the space wisely and efficiently. For instance, you should organize areas where you use your storage.
In cabinets under the stairs, you should put all of the gear that you need to wear outside. Shoes, boots, coats, and the like should all be in one place. Then, make sure to find a logical space for your bedding and keep all of it in one area in particular so you have easy access when you need it.
4. Start Your Own Tiny House Journey!
Living in a tiny house offers numerous advantages for the new breed of homeowners. When done right, it can mean total freedom for the owner of the abode. No mortgage to pay and potentially living off somewhere away from the hustle and bustle of civilization.
If you’re ready to embark on your tiny house journey, make sure to do extensive research before taking the plunge. Decide whether you’ll stay in the suburbs or go off-grid while using only solar power for your home. Finally, get organized. Evaluate your lifestyle and decide which hobbies and material possessions you’ll bring with you to your new tiny residence.