Factors to Consider While Building a Tiny House

Tiny houses, like traditional houses, vary in price depending on where you live. The size of the small house, its layout are all important tiny-house cost considerations. Other considerations include the need for permits and inspections, as well as the cost of the appliances and materials.

Size

The size of the tiny house has a significant impact on the overall cost. No matter what type of house you build, whether it’s conventionally sized or tiny, you will pay between $100 and $200 per square foot on average.

Material

While very small houses are designed to provide the same amenities as conventional homes, just on a much smaller scale, the materials and appliances used will influence the price. Materials alone cost between $14,050 and $54,800, with some of the price difference due to special-sized appliances such as scaled-down refrigerators, showers, and stoves.

Utility Access

You’ll need to run power lines to the tiny house unless you plan on living off-grid and installing solar panels. Depending on the distance, this could range from $250 to $5,000 or more to connect pre-existing electrical lines to a rural property. Fees for connecting to a municipal sewer system, connecting to a sewer system, or access to natural gas or propane could all result in additional utility costs.

Additional Costs and Considerations

Some costs of building a tiny house are less obvious than others, but they can quickly add up. While the average homeowner will pay around $45,000 to build a tiny house, the following factors can increase the cost.

Land Surveyor

The survey is used to determine the exact borders of the property, and most surveys cost around $510. This will vary depending on the circumstances; however, if you are purchasing an unplatted section of land from another landowner, the survey may cost more.

Contractors and Other Professionals

The cost of a contractor and subcontractors (plumbers, electricians, and HVAC technicians) to build a tiny house is in the $30,000 to $60,000 range. However, the going rate for tiny-house builders varies by community, and if you want to do some of the work yourself, it may be possible to reduce the cost.

Appliances, Decor, Furnishings, and Storage

The buyer’s choice of appliances, furnishings, and decor will influence the final cost of a tiny house. Because tiny homes do not hold much, buyers cannot go overboard on furniture, but the quality of the equipment, windows, and doors will matter. Many tiny-house owners save money by buying furniture that doubles as storage, such as a sofa with a hidden drawer or storage bin beneath it.