When Size Does Matter
The size of a tiny home is one of the major issues that will affect the cost of living in it. Tiny homes are usually much smaller than apartments, which indicates they require less energy to heat and cool. They also often have fewer amenities, such as a washer, dryer, or dishwasher. However, this also means you will have less space for your belongings. Unless you enjoy living minimally, you may need additional storage space, which will be an additional monthly expense. If you have a lot of stuff or like having space to spread out, then a tiny home may not be the right choice for you.
Location, Location, Location
The location of an apartment or tiny home is another essential factor to remember. Apartments in big cities are usually more expensive than those in smaller towns or rural areas. This is because the cost of living in a big city is commonly higher. If you are searching for an apartment in a big city, expect to pay more rent than you would if you were looking for an apartment in a small town.
The same thing is true of a tiny home. Depending on where you want to dwell, acquiring even a tiny lot to build a tiny home could be a big expense – and that doesn’t count the cost of the house itself! Even though a tiny home will cost less to buy or build than a larger home, it will still need either large amounts of cash upfront or a loan, which indicates you’ll be making monthly payments rain or shine.
Cost of Living
The cost of living in an area is also something to remember when choosing whether to rent an apartment or build a tiny home. Obtaining land to build a tiny home can be difficult if you want to dwell in a city, which tends to indicate moving to the outskirts or rural areas instead. The cost of living in a rural area is typically affordable compared to the cost of living in a big city. This indicates you will certainly save money if you acquire or create a tiny home in a rural area. However, the cost of living in a rural area may also imply fewer job opportunities and amenities. You may also need to drive long distances to work, shop, or participate in local events, and you will certainly need to own a car since public transportation isn’t provided in most rural areas.
On the other side, renting an apartment in town could save you huge cash in travel expenses over the long term, mainly if your town provides reliable public transportation. Those savings may offset the higher rent you pay for a convenient, close-to-everything location.
So, is living in an apartment or a tiny home affordable? It depends on your circumstance. You will need to choose what is most important to you and weigh the pros and cons of each option before taking action.
However, if you are seeking a new home to live in, speak to a Henrico County property manager at our office. We have rental homes that may deliver the best combination of size, location, and cost for your needs. You can contact us online or call 804-823-8882.