5 Reasons Why We Need Tiny Houses
Tiny Houses are seen by many as an important part of the solution to the current housing crisis in Australia. And we really need solutions - now - there is no single fix. We need to embrace many potential solutions as quickly as possible to relieve the day-to-day stress that so many Australians are living with.
Here are my top 5 reasons why we need Tiny Houses.
Tiny Houses avoid the need to own the land as well as the house. This removes the biggest barrier to home ownership for many people - especially in the cities. It also enables people to set up their homes once and then take their homes with them when they move for work, study or family reasons.
Tiny Houses can be as simple or luxurious as you want, depending on your budget. You can have top-of-the-line appliances, space-saving convertible furniture, bespoke fittings and fixtures, OR … you can have a low-cost basic setup that meets your needs and keeps you comfortable and safe. There are unlimited options.
Tiny Houses are great as a first foray into housing. As a school-leaver you may need to practice living independently while still having the safety net of living at home - parking a Tiny House in a relative’s or friend’s backyard means you can do your own thing without making a huge step. This is expecially attractive if the young adult is an apprentice, a uni student or has a disability. The young adult could potentially pay off the cost of a Tiny House over 4 or 5 years (instead of renting elsewhere) and then have an asset to sell to raise a deposit for a traditional house/land asset.
Tiny Houses are a great option for down-sizing. Older people who either live alone or in couples often want to travel, host grand children for sleepovers, spend less time doing housework and more time with their hobbies (and planying golf!). And their funds need to be managed well so as not to be a burden on the people they love. Parking a Tiny House in a relative’s or friend’s backyard means they can be close when needed but still independent.
With super low rental vacancy rates in many of our towns and cities, tenants currently have no option but to accept unreasonable rent rises, lack of repairs and maintenance, and intrusive property manager or landlord inspections. The Tiny House option provides dignity and security for those who could not afford a traditional house fixed to the land. Tiny House owners can potentially rent the land while also having the option of moving their house if the land rental conditions become unsuitable. No one should be trapped in a housing situation that no longer serves them. We need rental homes in our towns and cities, but the arrangement needs to be win-win, not a one sided power imbalance.
Living Tiny in Australia is still difficult to get approval for as Tiny Houses are not recognised as being any different from a caravan or a fixed house. Depending on your state and your local government region you may be able to live in a Tiny House legally or you may be limited by short time periods. The Australian Tiny House Association advocates for those wanting to Live Tiny and there are reputable builders and other supporters who can help navigate the process adn legislation for you. Please reach out if you are looking for assistance.
