The Tiny Life: Minimalizim

As the housing market becomes more competitive, home buyers are seeking affordable housing  and are having to make sacrifices. For some, it means cutting square footage and embracing a more minimalist lifestyle.

In 2008 Tiny Homes began to emerge from the coast of California to New York. The mortgage crisis took hold and many home buyers were looking to downsize. The attraction to Tiny Homes has continued and there have been many TV shows dedicated to the rise such as 'Tiny House Hunters' and 'Tiny House Nation'.  There have even been zoning laws approved allowing construction of tiny-home-only communities.

An average US home is around 2,600 sf. A tiny home is typically designated by a square footage of less than 400sf of floor area.  Tiny homes can be stationary or on wheels, allowing them to be moved to any location. Many have lofts that function as the bedroom or are used for storage areas.  Compact and designed with unique storage options, Tiny Homes have been built to make life simpler.  Many are enjoying more family "together" time and a new found financial freedom.  

In New York, zoning laws vary by town and village.  If you are planning on building a tiny home, first check with your local community to see what laws will apply to you. New York also has strict safety standards to adhere to. So whatever your reason may be for tiny living, no one disputes the fact that Tiny Home living is a remarkable and sometimes challenging way to live. It's not for everyone.  But whether you choose to place your home permanently or use it to travel through the Finger Lakes or across the country, your tiny home can be uniquely yours. 

For more information on Tiny Home builders or zoning laws in your area, contact Dawn LoPresto at 585-794-6887.