business plan tiny house

How to Start a Tiny House Business

Tiny houses are all the rage. These uber-small homes have just enough space for a minimalist individual or small family. A tiny house business builds, sells and/or rents tiny houses to those looking for a place to live or stay.

You may also be interested in additional unique business ideas .

Ready to turn your business idea into a reality? We recommend forming an LLC as it is the most affordable way to protect your personal assets. You can do this yourself or with our trusted partner for a small fee. Northwest ($29 + State Fees) DIY: How to Start an LLC

Start a tiny house business by following these 10 steps:

• Plan your Tiny House Business
• Form your Tiny House Business into a Legal Entity
• Register your Tiny House Business for Taxes
• Open a Business Bank Account & Credit Card
• Set up Accounting for your Tiny House Business
• Get the Necessary Permits & Licenses for your Tiny House Business
• Get Tiny House Business Insurance
• Define your Tiny House Business Brand
• Create your Tiny House Business Website
• Set up your Business Phone System

We have put together this simple guide to starting your tiny house business. These steps will ensure that your new business is well planned out, registered properly and legally compliant.

Exploring your options? Check out other small business ideas .

STEP 1: Plan your business

A clear plan is essential for success as an entrepreneur. It will help you map out the specifics of your business and discover some unknowns. A few important topics to consider are:

What will you name your business?

• What are the startup and ongoing costs?
• Who is your target market?

How much can you charge customers?

Luckily we have done a lot of this research for you.

Choosing the right name is important and challenging. If you don’t already have a name in mind, visit our How to Name a Business guide or get help brainstorming a name with our Tiny House Business Name Generator

If you operate a sole proprietorship , you might want to operate under a business name other than your own name. Visit our DBA guide to learn more.

When registering a business name , we recommend researching your business name by checking:

• Your state's business records
• Federal and state trademark records
• Social media platforms
• Web domain availability .

It's very important to secure your domain name before someone else does.

Find a Domain Now

Powered by godaddy.com, what are the costs involved in opening a tiny house business.

The building materials are the primary expense. The construction of tiny houses requires an array of materials ranging from wood to nails, bricks, lighting, appliances, flooring and so on. An office for administrative functions will also be necessary. Your office needs computers, printers, desks, chairs and high-speed Internet. You will also need a team of tiny home builders to construct these cute little houses. Some tiny house builders buy the property upon which tiny houses are built. If you plan on purchasing such property before constructing the tiny houses, be sure to budget for these costly acquisitions of land.

What are the ongoing expenses for a tiny house business?

The cost of labor is one of the major tiny house business expenses. Your tiny house builders will require a wage of at least $12 to $15 per hour if not more. The construction foreman/manager will require a salary in the range of $45,000 to $100,000. You will have to hire a receptionist, administrator, marketing professional and accountant as time progresses. A receptionist and administrator will earn between $10 and $15 per hour. Marketing and accounting professionals typically earn between $35,000 and $55,000 per year.

You will need an office to conduct your tiny house business. This space will likely cost between $700 and $1,500 per month depending on its size and location. Utilities and high-speed Internet will cost between $150 and $250 per month. Budget in another couple hundred dollars per month for insurance. Constructing tiny homes requires building materials. The cost of these materials hinges on the number of tiny homes you plan on building. You will likely spend between $2,000 and $20,000 or more for each tiny house's building supplies. The exact cost hinges on the size of the tiny home along with its appliances and luxuries. If you plan on buying property and then building tiny homes on the land you purchase, your budget will be exponentially higher. Though tiny houses are small, the land upon which they are built can cost anywhere between $10,000 and $50,000 or more.

Who is the target market?

The ideal customer is an individual with an expansive budget and a desire for an upscale tiny home. In some instances it is possible to sell several tiny homes to a real estate investor who intends to “flip” those properties or use them as tiny house rentals/hotels.

How does a tiny house business make money?

Tiny house businesses make money by selling tiny homes to buyers. It is also possible to rent out tiny houses.

Tiny houses sell in a price range between $5,000 and $50,000 or more. The exact price depends on the size, location, and amenities within the house. These diminutive homes are quite appealing to a wide variety of audiences. If you decide to rent out your tiny home as a hotel of sorts, you can charge upwards of $100 to $200 per night. People are willing to pay good money for a brief stay in a tiny house in order to determine if this style of living is appealing and also to find out what all the fuss is over.

How much profit can a tiny house business make?

A tiny house business has the potential to make six figures right off the bat. The amount of profit your tiny house business makes hinges on overhead costs, the number of properties your team can build and the state of your local real estate market. Keep building and selling tiny homes and it is possible to turn your business in a multi-million dollar enterprise within half a decade.

How can you make your business more profitable?

If you have a tiny home on the market that few (or no) people bid on, consider renting it out. It is also possible to rent tiny houses as hotels. If you understand the intricacies of tiny house construction, you can make extra money by teaching others how to build these highly unique structures.

Want a more guided approach? Access TRUiC's free Small Business Startup Guide - a step-by-step course for turning your business idea into reality. Get started today!

STEP 2: Form a legal entity

One crucial aspect that cannot be overlooked when starting your tiny house business is the importance of establishing a solid business foundation. While sole proprietorships and partnerships are the most common entity types for small businesses, they're a far less stable and advantageous option than LLCs.

This is because unincorporated business structures (i.e., sole proprietorships and partnerships) expose you as an owner to personal liability for your business's debts and legal actions, while LLCs protect you by keeping your personal assets separate from your business's liabilities.

In practice, this means that if your tiny house business were to face a lawsuit or incur any debts, your savings, home, and other personal assets could not be used to cover these costs. On top of this, forming your business as an LLC also helps it to appear more legitimate and trustworthy.

More than 84% of our readers opt to collaborate with a professional LLC formation service to kickstart their venture. We've negotiated a tailored discount for our readers, bringing the total down to just $29.

Form Your LLC Now

Note: If you're interested in more information before getting started, we recommend having a look at our state-specific How to Start an LLC guide (DIY) or our in-depth Best LLC Services review (for those opting for a professional service).

STEP 3: Register for taxes

You will need to register for a variety of state and federal taxes before you can open for business.

In order to register for taxes you will need to apply for an EIN. It's really easy and free!

You can acquire your EIN through the IRS website . If you would like to learn more about EINs, read our article, What is an EIN?

There are specific state taxes that might apply to your business. Learn more about state sales tax and franchise taxes in our state sales tax guides.

STEP 4: Open a business bank account & credit card

Using dedicated business banking and credit accounts is essential for personal asset protection.

When your personal and business accounts are mixed, your personal assets (your home, car, and other valuables) are at risk in the event your business is sued. In business law, this is referred to as piercing your corporate veil .

Open a business bank account

Besides being a requirement when applying for business loans, opening a business bank account:

• Separates your personal assets from your company's assets, which is necessary for personal asset protection.
• Makes accounting and tax filing easier.

Recommended: Read our Best Banks for Small Business review to find the best national bank or credit union.

Get a business credit card

Getting a business credit card helps you:

• Separate personal and business expenses by putting your business' expenses all in one place.
• Build your company's credit history , which can be useful to raise money later on.

Recommended: Apply for an easy approval business credit card from BILL and build your business credit quickly.

STEP 5: Set up business accounting

Recording your various expenses and sources of income is critical to understanding the financial performance of your business. Keeping accurate and detailed accounts also greatly simplifies your annual tax filing.

Make LLC accounting easy with our LLC Expenses Cheat Sheet.

STEP 6: Obtain necessary permits and licenses

Failure to acquire necessary permits and licenses can result in hefty fines, or even cause your business to be shut down.

State & Local Business Licensing Requirements

Certain state permits and licenses may be needed to operate a tiny house business. Learn more about licensing requirements in your state by visiting SBA’s reference to state licenses and permits .

Most businesses are required to collect sales tax on the goods or services they provide. To learn more about how sales tax will affect your business, read our article, Sales Tax for Small Businesses .

Services Contract

Tiny house businesses should require clients to sign a services agreement before starting a new project.  This agreement should clarify client expectations and minimize risk of legal disputes by setting out payment terms and conditions, service level expectations, and intellectual property ownership. 

Here is OSHA’s guide for the construction industry. There are particular regulations for building a home that may be relevant to building tiny houses too.

Liability Insurance

 It is recommended that you obtain liability insurance to protect yourself, contractors, and customers in the case of an accident.

STEP 7: Get business insurance

Just as with licenses and permits, your business needs insurance in order to operate safely and lawfully. Business Insurance protects your company’s financial wellbeing in the event of a covered loss.

There are several types of insurance policies created for different types of businesses with different risks. If you’re unsure of the types of risks that your business may face, begin with General Liability Insurance . This is the most common coverage that small businesses need, so it’s a great place to start for your business.

Another notable insurance policy that many businesses need is Workers’ Compensation Insurance . If your business will have employees, it’s a good chance that your state will require you to carry Workers' Compensation Coverage.

FInd out what types of insurance your Tiny House Business needs and how much it will cost you by reading our guide Business Insurance for Tiny House Business.

STEP 8: Define your brand

Your brand is what your company stands for, as well as how your business is perceived by the public. A strong brand will help your business stand out from competitors.

If you aren't feeling confident about designing your small business logo, then check out our Design Guides for Beginners , we'll give you helpful tips and advice for creating the best unique logo for your business.

Recommended : Get a logo using Truic's free logo Generator no email or sign up required, or use a Premium Logo Maker .

If you already have a logo, you can also add it to a QR code with our Free QR Code Generator . Choose from 13 QR code types to create a code for your business cards and publications, or to help spread awareness for your new website.

How to promote & market a tiny house business

Be selective when deciding on marketing methods. Tiny home-seekers tend to be young adults in their 20s or 30s. Target the mediums this age cohort is exposed to and you will maximize your marketing dollars. Of critical importance is your website and social media content. Millennials and other youngsters will almost certainly surf the web on over to your website and Facebook, and Twitter pages. Your web presence should be polished. Regularly update your social media accounts and website blog with helpful, intriguing keyword-laden content. Guest blog on other relevant websites to gain exposure.

How to keep customers coming back

It is important to hold frequent open houses. Do not lose sight of the fact that investing in a tiny house is quite the difficult decision for the average home-seeker. After all, tiny houses are quite unorthodox. Learn all the nuances of your tiny homes for sale so you can explain how a prospective buyer can live in such a small space with considerable comfort.

STEP 9: Create your business website

After defining your brand and creating your logo the next step is to create a website for your business .

While creating a website is an essential step, some may fear that it’s out of their reach because they don’t have any website-building experience. While this may have been a reasonable fear back in 2015, web technology has seen huge advancements in the past few years that makes the lives of small business owners much simpler.

Here are the main reasons why you shouldn’t delay building your website:

• All legitimate businesses have websites - full stop. The size or industry of your business does not matter when it comes to getting your business online.
• Social media accounts like Facebook pages or LinkedIn business profiles are not a replacement for a business website that you own.
• Website builder tools like the GoDaddy Website Builder have made creating a basic website extremely simple. You don’t need to hire a web developer or designer to create a website that you can be proud of.

Recommended : Get started today using our recommended website builder or check out our review of the Best Website Builders .

Other popular website builders are: WordPress , WIX , Weebly , Squarespace , and Shopify .

STEP 10: Set up your business phone system

Getting a phone set up for your business is one of the best ways to help keep your personal life and business life separate and private. That’s not the only benefit; it also helps you make your business more automated, gives your business legitimacy, and makes it easier for potential customers to find and contact you.

There are many services available to entrepreneurs who want to set up a business phone system. We’ve reviewed the top companies and rated them based on price, features, and ease of use. Check out our review of the Best Business Phone Systems 2023 to find the best phone service for your small business.

Recommended Business Phone Service: Phone.com

Phone.com is our top choice for small business phone numbers because of all the features it offers for small businesses and it's fair pricing.

Is this Business Right For You?

If you are interested in architecture, construction and/or real estate, this business is perfect for you. It is also quite appealing to those who pride themselves on staying up to date with the latest trends.

Want to know if you are cut out to be an entrepreneur?

Take our Entrepreneurship Quiz to find out!

Entrepreneurship Quiz

What happens during a typical day at a tiny house business?

A tiny house business owner orders building materials, manages builders, secures plots of land, buys/sells tiny homes and establishes relationships with suppliers. Some tiny house business owners even handle the accounting and marketing duties until the business reaches the point where professionals can be hired to handle these responsibilities.

What are some skills and experiences that will help you build a successful tiny house business?

Knowledge of home construction with a particular focus on tiny house construction will certainly help. Those who are familiar with the real estate nuances of their area will have a firm grasp on the local codes that apply to tiny houses and the best places to build these homes. It will also help to be a savvy marketer. Though many tiny homes sell themselves, making target customers aware of your tiny homes for sale is critically important.

What is the growth potential for a tiny house business?

Tiny houses are as en vogue as it gets. Just about everyone wants to spend a night in a tiny house. Plenty of millennials are interested in these diminutive homes as permanent living spaces. Even baby boomers looking to downsize are interested in tiny houses. The potential for growth is exponential. If you build or acquire tiny homes in the next half-decade, they will almost assuredly sell at a profit. Capitalize on this trend now and you will be able to grow your tiny home company into a business empire across posterity. It is likely that tiny houses will remain popular far into the future as the population increases, space becomes more limited and traditional home values continue to soar.

TRUiC's YouTube Channel

For fun informative videos about starting a business visit the TRUiC YouTube Channel or subscribe to view later.

Take the Next Step

Find a business mentor.

One of the greatest resources an entrepreneur can have is quality mentorship. As you start planning your business, connect with a free business resource near you to get the help you need.

Having a support network in place to turn to during tough times is a major factor of success for new business owners.

Learn from other business owners

Want to learn more about starting a business from entrepreneurs themselves? Visit Startup Savant’s startup founder series to gain entrepreneurial insights, lessons, and advice from founders themselves.

Resources to Help Women in Business

There are many resources out there specifically for women entrepreneurs. We’ve gathered necessary and useful information to help you succeed both professionally and personally:

If you’re a woman looking for some guidance in entrepreneurship, check out this great new series Women in Business created by the women of our partner Startup Savant.

What are some insider tips for jump starting a tiny house business?

Become familiar with your local building codes. Find out the specific regulations in your jurisdiction that pertain to tiny house construction, location and living. Hire your building team with care. Only select builders who understand the nuances of tiny home construction. If you aren't sure where to start and do not have experience with tiny houses, it is advisable to attend at tiny home workshop.

How and when to build a team

You will need a team of tiny house builders right away. You can't build all these houses yourself. Furthermore, it will help to hire a real estate agent or tiny home expert to help you show the tiny houses you have for sale. If you do not want to answer the phone calls of prospective buyers throughout the day, it will be necessary to hire a receptionist. Hold off on hiring a marketing professional, accountant and administrator until your business ramps up.

Read our tiny house business hiring guide to learn about the different roles a tiny house business typically fills, how much to budget for employee salaries, and how to build your team exactly how you want it.

Useful Links

Truic resources.

• TRUiC's Tiny House Business Hiring Guide

Industry Opportunities

• Franchise Opportunity
• Discover more Unique Business Ideas
• American Tiny House Association
• United Tiny House Association

Real World Examples

• Santa Monica Business
• Chattanooga Business

Further Reading

• Problems to Watch Out For
• Steps and Other Things to Consider

Have a Question? Leave a Comment!

How to Write a Tiny House Business Plan

How to write a tiny house business plan and template.

The tiny house-building industry has emerged as a relatively new and thriving concept.  Merely five years ago, tiny houses were perceived as RVs or truck campers, but today, the demand for these compact dwellings seems boundless.

Several factors contribute to this phenomenon, with affordability being a key driver.  Research conducted by our tiny house business plan writer reveals that these homes can be acquired for under $8,000, a mere fraction of the cost of a traditional new home.  Moreover, the convenience of constructing tiny houses in factories or other locations and their cost-effective delivery to various homesites across America further enhances their appeal.

The unexpected surge in the tiny house market creates a remarkable opportunity for entrepreneurs seeking to capitalize on this trend.  To support these aspiring tiny home business owners, our dedicated tiny home business plan writer has compiled invaluable tips and tricks for crafting a professional and comprehensive tiny home business plan.  We offer a readily available tiny house business plan template to streamline the planning process and help entrepreneurs seize this promising market (7/23).

CLICK HERE TO CHECK OUT OUR TINY HOME BUSINESS PLAN TEMPLATE!!

Executive summary for a tiny house business plan.

When developing the executive summary for a tiny house business plan, it is essential to cover specific components that offer a comprehensive overview.  Our business plan writer suggests incorporating the following elements: discussing the range of sizes available for the tiny houses, highlighting unique features and design options, clarifying whether the business will focus on developing communities or individual sites, explaining the advantages and market potential of the chosen business structure; specifying the construction approach, whether on-site or off-site manufacturing, and outlining the associated benefits and cost-efficiency; and summarizing the anticipated startup costs, encompassing expenses like land acquisition, construction, permits, and marketing.  This comprehensive approach allows tiny house business owners to depict their operations and expected financial outcomes in the executive summary, enabling readers to understand the essence of the business plan and make informed decisions regarding investment or collaboration opportunities.

Need Help Writing a TINY HOME Business Plan?

Call or Text Paul, Doctoral Candidate, MBA.

321-948-9588

Email: [email protected]

Click HERE to Contact US Today!!!

Company Information and Location .

In the company information and location section of a tiny home business plan, it is crucial to provide a comprehensive explanation of the organization’s services or products about tiny homes.  This section should clearly outline the specific role and offerings of the company within the tiny home industry.  For instance, some organizations may focus on constructing or installing prefabricated tiny homes, showcasing their expertise in delivering ready-to-use housing solutions.  Others may specialize in transportation services, providing efficient and reliable means of moving tiny homes to desired locations.  Additionally, organizations may excel in services related to decorating and optimizing the limited space within tiny homes, catering to homeowners’ unique needs and preferences.  Whichever segment the company operates in, it is essential to explicitly state its specialization and offerings within the company information and location section of the business plan (7/23).

Service Description and Competitive Advantages.

When developing the competitive advantage section of your tiny home business plan or template, it is essential to start by identifying your competition.  Depending on the location, your competition may consist of local homebuilders, RV sellers, or module home dealers.  Once you have identified your competitors, conduct thorough research to gather facts and statistics comparing the benefits of tiny homes with those of your direct competition.

For instance, if your competition primarily includes local homebuilders, you can highlight the competitive advantages of your tiny home business.  These advantages may include the significantly lower cost of your product compared to traditional homes, making it more affordable and accessible to a broader market.  Additionally, emphasize the transportability aspect of your tiny homes, as this feature may appeal to potential buyers who value flexibility and the ability to move their homes to different locations.

While stating your competitive advantage, explaining why it is essential for your company is crucial.  This discussion allows you to highlight the specific benefits that set your business apart and address the needs and preferences of your target market.  By clearly articulating the value and significance of your competitive advantage, you can demonstrate the unique selling points of your tiny home business and differentiate yourself from the competition in the eyes of potential investors and stakeholders.

Target Market for a Tiny House Business Plan or Template

The target market for a tiny house business plan or template continuously expands, with new demographics emerging regularly.  While previously, the target market primarily consisted of environmentally conscious individuals or couples seeking to reduce their carbon footprint, it has now evolved to include a broader range of potential customers.  Today, your target market for a tiny home could encompass college students, cost-conscious buyers, and individuals or couples looking for the flexibility to relocate their homes periodically due to work or travel needs.

Given the diverse demographics of individuals and couples interested in purchasing tiny homes, there may be multiple target markets to consider.  This opens up opportunities for your organization to tailor its offerings and align with niche market segments.  You can develop unique value propositions and marketing strategies to appeal to these distinct customer groups by identifying and understanding different target markets’ specific needs and desires.

As the tiny house movement continues to gain popularity, it is crucial to regularly assess and adapt to the evolving target market.  Staying attuned to emerging trends and preferences will enable your business to stay competitive and capitalize on niche market opportunities that align with your organization’s strengths and capabilities.

Industry research for a Tiny House Business Plan Template.

Industry and market statistics for tiny homes are relatively scarce.  However, some quality sites provide tiny home statistics that may be reliable.  For example, iproperty management has done some seemingly good research on the benefits of owning tiny homes.  On their site, the organization noted that New York City leads the country in the tiny home-share market.  A close second would be San Francisco and San Diego.  Also, Los Angeles ranks in the top five for tiny home sales.  Just from the statistics, an argument may be made that the West Coast, specifically California, could be ready to lead the country in tiny home sales.  This is just one source to establish a foundation for tiny home builders and a supporting cast.

Owner and Management Section

A tiny home business plan’s owner and management section should start with insights into why the owner wishes to enter the tiny home industry.  Our tiny home business plan writer has found that some entrepreneurs wish to enter the market because of their personal experiences with tiny home living.  Other entrepreneurs have significant construction experience and wish to exploit niche opportunities in the construction marketplace.  Start the section with a brief explanation, regardless of your passion or drive to enter the industry. 

Funding Request for a Tiny House Business Plan

The funding request section for a tiny house business plan should start with stating the dollar amount needed to start your business.  Once a dollar amount needed to start your tiny house organization is identified, follow up this specific amount with categories showing how the funds will be divvied up.  For example, if your organization builds tiny houses, common categories may include working capital, construction equipment, advertising, budget for purchasing land, building materials, and other relevant costs.  Once these categories are identified in dollar amounts allocated, show the total for startup costs at the bottom of the bulleted list.  Also, ensure the total amount needed for startup operations is the same as the top-line dollar amount.  In doing this, tiny home entrepreneurs can show explicitly the dollar amount needed to start the organization upfront.  However, by breaking the funding into categories, the business owner can have some wiggle room and startup cost allocation.

Financials and Pro Forma Financial Projections for a Tiny House Business Plan.

The pro forma financial projection section for a tiny house business plan template or pro forma financials should start with identifying when the first home sale will occur.  Once this is done, use the variable cost section of your financial model to include land purchases, impact fees, and subcontractor costs.  Next, your financial model for your financial projections should list your various fixed costs that will be paid monthly, like executive wages, advertising, utilities, office expenses, smartphone bills, and other prevalent monthly wages.  Once your fixed costs are identified, deduct this from your gross profit margins, simply your variable cost subtracted from your revenues.  This number will give you your estimated monthly profits for your tiny house business. It’s a pretty simple process but an excellent starting point for your financial projections.

Hopefully, these insightful tips and tricks for writing a business plan were helpful.  Email or call us for help with a business plan or financial projections. 

Author: Paul Borosky, Doctoral Candidate, MBA., Author

Owner of: Quality Business Plan  and  Quality Business Consultant.

Updated: 7/2/2023

Starting A Tiny House Community: It Takes A Tiny Village

Imagine not worrying about paying rent, growing food on your property, having enough outdoor space for your dog and kids to play, and knowing your neighbors deeply enough to call them friend. If that sounds too good to be true, you’re in the right place!

Tiny house lovers are taking things to the next level by upgrading to entire neighborhoods. Shared social experiences, reduced cost of living, time outside with loved ones, freedom, and authentic connections are just a few reasons why people may want to start a tiny house community of their own.

Hi, I’m Ryan

Over the last decade, I’ve uprooted my life in the corporate world and exchanged it for a tiny lifestyle. My tiny house has given me benefits that have changed my life. Tiny communities bring you all the benefits of living in a tiny house, but allow you to experience them in a community with others.

Why Live In A Tiny House Community?

In the isolated social culture of our media age, people long for honest connection. Something I love about tiny house culture is it gets back to communal life that used to be commonplace.

Today, a lot of our work is individualized and, thus, our lives are too. Tiny house communities are a way to get back to that down to earth, harmonious way of living. They put you in close proximity to your neighbors, allow you to depend on each other for resources, involve outdoor activities, and create spaces to bond.

You Truly Know Your Neighbors In Tiny House Communities

I think people today are craving the kind of camaraderie that tiny house communities foster. It’s one of the main reasons communities fill up so quickly. The culture in a tiny house neighborhood is drastically different from inner-city or suburban life — it’s much more personal.

You Have Financial Freedom In Tiny House Communities

Living in a tiny house has reduced my cost of living substantially, which makes it a huge pull for tiny communities. For one, you aren’t responsible for monthly rent or under the control of a landlord if you’re a part owner. Additionally, your utility bill is going to be much lower than if you lived in a traditional home.

It’s also common practice in these communities for people to share on food costs, cook meals for one another, host neighborhood potlucks, or share produce they’ve grown themselves — reducing money spent on food overall. Neighborhoods also regularly host activities collectively, which are open to everyone, so there is less need to spend on entertainment.

Life Happens Outdoors In A Tiny House Community

Tiny House Villages Are Eco-Friendly

Environmental consciousness is a given in tiny house communities. Tiny homes require fewer materials to build and less energy to power, heat, and cool compared to traditional single-family homes.

Additionally, shared resources and meals, the utilization of communal spaces, solar panels, and a tendency to depend on one another for daily needs like carpooling and borrowing supplies reduces the carbon footprint of members in tiny house communities.

How To Start A Tiny House Community In 8 Steps

Starting your own tiny house community takes more than just a bunch of friends with a dream. You’ll need donors, the right location, an understanding of building laws, and more to start your village off on the right foot. You’ve got to start somewhere, so let’s dive in!

1 Set Goals For Your Tiny House Community

People start tiny house communities to:

• House their own extended family
• Create an intentional living community
• Rent tiny homes out as Airbnbs
• Give tiny homeowners long-term parking
• Build energy-efficient housing alternatives
• Offer alternate housing in a housing crisis

If any of these reasons sound like the intention you have in mind for your tiny house community, think about what that means for the planning and design process. You aren’t going to design or plan for each of these reasons in the same exact ways.

2 Find A Location For Your Tiny House Neighborhood

Choosing the ideal location is important when considering how to start a tiny house community. You want to foster a positive environment. A community forms via the bonding of likeminded people, so you want to grow your village in a city where you naturally connect with the type of people who live there.

Do some in-depth research on different cities and towns, and what life looks like there to scope out the ideal location for your community. Think about the type of people you hope to attract and scope out places where the social culture matches your intent. Again, keep your intent in mind to help inform your research.

3 Read Tiny House Building And Zoning Laws In Your City

You also can’t just plop a tiny house community anywhere — there are rules for where these neighborhoods are actually allowed to be. Reading the fine print of building and zoning laws is vital if you want to set up a community like this.

City building laws are more involved, and many of them aren’t quite up to date when it comes to accommodating tiny homeowners. However, just because you can’t find tiny house-specific laws in your city, doesn’t mean building a tiny house community is prohibited where you are.

I’d suggest consulting an expert like a local build and design company in your area to help you understand the fine print for laws in your city before breaking ground. Or, check out our state builder’s directory to find information on tiny house building laws in each US state.

4 Gather Support To Fund Your Tiny House Village

Unless you’ve been saving awhile already, you’ll need to rely heavily on funds from other people to get a project like this off the ground. This can come from donors, investors, or simply encouraging your community residents to come together to split the cost of the project.

The co-housing movement is growing rapidly as today’s housing prices are steadily increasing. There are several legal structures in place to support the co-housing movement and make it possible to split costs with your peers. Some co-ops will also have a labor system where residents put in their time, labor, and skillsets to benefit the intentional living community and help reduce overall costs.

You’ll also need to budget wisely. You have to know how much you need in order to spell the costs out accurately for community members. This can get dicey, because projects like this span huge price ranges. Again, this goes back to your purpose and planning. You would need to budget a tiny neighborhood for your relatives in an entirely different way than a community you’re building to rent out tiny houses.

The best way to get a ballpark idea of your tiny home community cost is to find someone who has done something similar. Scope out projects that mirror your vision. Then, identify what you’re willing to spend on your project — is the cost of these similar projects comparable? You may need to amend your vision to get the support you’re seeking.

Consider the following costs when planning a tiny house community:

• Tiny house shells
• Design services
• Building services
• Land use permits
• Building permits
• Landscaping
• Water infrastructure
• Electrical connects
• Vehicle management
• Waste management

I’ve worked in the tiny community for over a decade, and too often I see people put all their eggs in one basket only to have their project fall off the map. Without proper planning, people often just decide they can build their dream tiny house village for an unrealistic amount of money, and it’s simply not possible.

Wise planning, however, can actually bring your vision to fruition! Your dreams are attainable if you pair the passion and idealism with practicality from the early planning stages.

5 Get Permits Your Tiny Village As A Neighborhood

The next step is to figure out what permits you need to get your tiny house neighborhood legally registered. Consider land permits, building permits, and the subject of registering your community as a neighborhood or RV park through your municipality.

You’ll also need to register the tiny village as a legal rental property, neighborhood, RV park, or whatever designation fits best. This is a process you can complete through local government agencies. Depending on how you’re registering the village, you’ll likely seek out the department of transportation or department of community engagement.

6 Build Your Tiny House Community

Once you’ve jumped through all the proper hoops to get your tiny house community set up, you can start building! Again, there’s a lot to consider when you’re ready to break ground.

Consider your budget and what that means for the building process — are you going to DIY the tiny houses and utility installation yourself? Or are you planning to hire a professional design and build team? Defer to our builder’s directory to find tiny home builders in your state.

Your design dreams are also a huge part of bringing your tiny house community to life. We’ll look at some example community layout ideas later in this post.

7 Find Your Tiny House Community Members

A tiny house community without community members will not stand. To start a tiny house neighborhood, you’ll need residents to live in your village, so get the word out! Posting online or creating a website for your tiny house community is a valuable way to find people who might want to live there.

Common Membership Options

• Co-op housing
• Communal housing
• Renting to tenants
• Selling land plots and houses
• Selling land plots for tiny homeowners to park

With co-op housing, each member of the community owns part of the project and decisions are made together like a team or family unit. While the co-op method may sound utopian, it can be hard to execute in the modern world. If the community doesn’t agree on core decisions like how to spend savings or use resources, the whole project can break down quickly. Psychologically, the co-op method is more likely to go smoothly with a smaller group.

Most of my friends who own tiny house communities have gone the renting and leasing routes because it’s easiest for them to manage effectively. It’s also the easiest way to get devoted investors, because investors know tiny home communities with a monthly rent will fill up and are more inclined to commit.

Most tiny house communities create an application process to approve renters and residents. That process can be as general or in depth as you see fit, but having some sort of screening process before accepting members is wise so that the character of the community matches your heart’s intent for the project. Check out Sunset Meadows in Trenton, Texas , for an example of how to set up applications.

8 Move Into Your Tiny House Neighborhood

When your tiny house community is all set up, it’s time to move in and start your new life with your neighbors! Enjoy a communal life in your outdoor hammock, reading in your tiny house loft , and playing outside with neighbors and pets. Lean into the idyllic existence that mirrors how humans were meant to live.

Starting A Tiny House Community: Potential Setbacks

If you want to learn how to start a tiny house community, you might face some setbacks along the way. Addressing those obstacles early on helps you get in front of them to make your development process as smooth as possible. Let’s look out how to conquer any challenges you may face building a tiny house village.

Legislative Restrictions On Tiny House Communities

The most common obstacle that could get in the way of the tiny house community you desire is issues with building or zoning laws. Depending on where you live, you’ll undergo a different process to get a community approved.

You may have to present your project to a planning committee to get it approved entirely, or simply follow the building laws already in place and make sure your community does not break any zoning or building laws. If a tiny home is not legal in your jurisdiction, you may want to consider joining an existing community to avoid the headaches, or seek another locale.

Tiny Home Villages Face Disapproval From Those Who Live In The Area

When creating your own tiny house community, you may face backlash from current homeowners in the area who do not understand what tiny homes are. There’s a stigma around RV parks, and pre-existing neighborhoods don’t always want them nearby.

But just because a tiny house community may be coded or zoned as an RV park, that does not mean the concerns residents in surrounding subdivisions have will be present. Regardless, you may face pushback from the community who fears and misunderstands your tiny home village, so just be aware of that.

Setting Up Utilities In A Tiny House Community Takes Work

You may also face challenges setting up utilities on the land you’re using for your tiny community. It can be a hard process, especially for someone without construction experience. But don’t lose heart! I built my own tiny house from start to finish without having any construction experience of my own. It took a while, but I was able to learn from experts as I went.

You’ll need to answer these basic utility questions that apply to the location of your neighborhood to inform what kind of utilities you need.

Basic Utility Questions

• Is there a water supply nearby you can connect to?
• Will your tiny houses need water tanks?
• Are your tiny homes mobile with RV hookups?
• Are you required to connect to the city septic line?
• Will you need to install a septic tank?
• How will you get electricity?

Tiny House Community Design Ideas

One of the most important elements when it comes to starting your own tiny house community is the design. Check out these tiny house village plans to help you create the neighborhood that works best for you and your residents.

Tiny Home Community Plans For Twelve Families

This layout is set up to include 12 tiny houses centered around a communal space in the middle. The communal space can be used for lots of different activities like group meals or game nights. Each house has its own driveway connected to the house.

Tiny House Neighborhood Layout For Families

Ideal for multiple families who want to live together in a tiny home village, this layout includes 12 homes which each surrounding their own cul-de-sac. This is helpful if you still want to maintain a sense of privacy while living in your tiny house community. The homes also surround a central community building.

Tiny House Community Design With Parking Lot

If you are seeking a tiny house neighborhood that is welcoming to visitors, you may want to include a parking lot in your plans. This tiny house village layout is set up similarly to an apartment complex, with each building next to the other and a parking lot with covered and uncovered parking in the middle of the community.

Tiny House Village Layout With Covered Patios

This tiny home neighborhood has each of the 12 tiny homes fairly spread out, leaving room between them for larger yards. It also includes a covered outdoor space on each side of the street which you and your neighbors could use for community cookouts, bonfires, or picnics.

Tiny House Neighborhood Map With Parking Lot And Swimming Pool

If you’re seeking a tiny house community layout that spreads each house out substantially while also having a spacious area for community activity, this might be the layout for you. The community area on the far-right side of the plot has room for a swimming pool and two covered patios to bring the community together and connect with one another.

Tiny House Community Blueprint For 44 Tiny Homes

Not all tiny house villages are meant for just a few residents. Many developers have dreams of creating tiny house neighborhoods that closely mirror subdivisions. This community layout has room for 44 tiny houses as well as a yard and parking spot for each home.

Tiny House Village Design Surrounding A Lake

A communal, intimate feel is the focus of this layout. All of the tiny houses face each other and are angled around a lake at the village center. This setup also includes a community center which can be used for a vast number of purposes that best serve your tiny community.

Tiny House Neighborhood Plans

This layout is set up the way a traditional neighborhood might be setup, except with parking lots at the end of the street instead of next to each individual home. The tiny houses sit across from one another to foster casual camaraderie amongst the community.

Tiny House Village Map For Eight Families

If you are seeking a tiny house community that still feels private and separate, consider this layout. The setup allows each resident to have room for their own backyard, front yard, and parking space, just like in a traditional subdivision. The only differentiating factor is the size of the homes.

Tiny House Community Blueprints With Lake

This setup also has an interconnected, communal feel. All of the homes face each other in a circle to cater to that feeling. The only difference between this setup and the previous lake layout is the community center is in the middle of the community, while the lake is off to the side.

Tiny House Communities You Can Join Today

If you aren’t ready to start you own tiny house community, consider joining one that already exists! Find a tiny house community in your state or find a tiny house community near you !

• Why do you want to build a tiny house community?
• What steps do you need to take to develop your tiny house community?

16 Comments

Wisconsin is NOT friendly to tiny home communities. Its rather sad, but if I had the money, I’d like to buy land and start one of these communities. People who are neat and quiet and want this type of life.

Nice 👍 Tiny homes 🏡 are perfect to have affordable Maintenance and consistent to do important Maintenance of peaceful in a quiet nice Country area.

I live in Southern California and would love to find a tiny house community in Temecula , Ca 92591! A community for seniors that want less responsible and lives a minimalist lifestyle….less expensive but good quality of life! Can u make that happen here? So many more people have tuned in to this style, . Whom would I have to speak with in order to get this established asap! Please & Thank You!

Please help me find the right Steps in order to find a a tiny house community in Riverside County, Temecula, Ca 92591!

I have decided that tiny living is for me in my next life chapter, But I am also wanting my house to be on a foundation not wheels, Can you please provide me with a list of Tiny House Communities in Florida, to place it on once completed.

Looking to open up my tiny house community very interested and it’s been on my heart for years my name is Richard Martins I please just need some guidance I have a lot of knowledge on building with zoning codes I just moved to a new area and I have the property needed for it I just need some help and to get in touch with people that want to live in the community with myself thank you so much for your time

This was an awesome read as i want to set up one in Pennsylvania. I would have liked to hear how to go about creating the bylaws for the community as well.

I’d like to start a tiny home community through my nonprofit, for the homeless. Any ideas about funding or how to get started?

We own about 100 acres of land in north Florida with a large pond and 5 acre island that is accessible by a land bridge. I’d like to be able to set up a tiny home community with each lot being lakefront. I just don’t know where to start!

Looking for tiny house parking in the Houston, TX area. Any info is appreciated.

7/11/23 🤗 I love your work and ideas and the quality of what you publish Ryan. I am a lawyer so naturally I think like one and my primary specialties, among other subjects, have been over the past > 45 years in 3 key areas: Insurance defense /risk management and various involvement in land use planning, developing and “Cluster Housing” where the blueprints and plats and drawings can sure resemble (in much more detail, of course) some of your tiny house community graphics.

(And more of my interests over 50 years: co-housing – I personally lived for a while in a giant “student boarding house operated by the Methodist Church in Gainesville, FL when in college, “intentional housing”- almost like the old “communes” but now much “classier and safer”, and affordable housing. AND I LOVE TINY HOMES, manufactured housing, RV’s, Skoolies, ADU’s etc., etc.)

Why am I writing? Because I have NOT yet read your Tiny House Community article BUT when I do I hope I see sections about insurance for both the community and homeowners—there are all kinds of special programs and ideas for proper and affordable insurances, the involvement of architects, utility planning in partnership with municipalities, land use planning, lighting and other electrical planning, “catastrophe”, “succession planning” for residents and those “governing”, alcohol and drug rules, injury and aging planning”, issues pertaining to kids for a variety of reasons, “conflict resolution planning”, landscaping experts, plans for forging proper relationships with politicians and local governments, the involvement of land-use planning and zoning lawyers and even Lobbyists to get plans approved, ordinances, statutes, codes and ordinances changed, PR and advertising /marketing people if you’re going big, etc.

(With the help of proper professionals, even driveways, street lights, traffic lights and “signage” may need to planned to code and approved.

You may want a day care or businesses operating in homes where licenses may be needed, may want community internet, you will need garbage and fe-cycling services, need “governance”- planning and on-going, need liaisons with “the outside world”, need security, sidewalks. [There may be rules for most of the ideas here and for very good reasons.])

The idea is not so much to “go corporate”, per se, but to convert the world to the idea that smaller can be better and your goals should be to make the rest of the world or community around you know that you are going to be a good neighbor, be safe, secure, non-threatening, “not a cult”, attractive, welcoming, and that they should join you or at officially, “tolerate and think kindly” of your community so that you will make your residents and prospective residents feel the same way.

Thank you for considering all of my ideas here. I’ve had a long time thinking about them and started at 20 being on the U of F President’s —then Stephen C. O’Connell— committee for affordable housing. (And (NO, I am not advertising for a job or on behalf of any law firm or lobbyist. But I do think there should be “tiny house community” law firms that specialize in coordinating all of the above.)

Roughly how much land does the eight home configuration with parking in on the side take up?

https://thetinylife.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Tiny-House-Neighborhood-Plans.jpg

Hi I live in Philadelphia & I just finished building a 24 foot trailer Tiny House & I love would to build a community of all tiny houses.

I am interested in building a tiny home community 6-8 homes

I want to start a tiny home community with homes on permanent foundations and 400-500 square feet. Curious what the estimated cost would be develop acreage to accommodate 20 -30 tiny homes on 10 acres with a common area consisting of a a club house and 2 Pickleball courts

What program did you use to draw the different style communities with or who should I look for to draw my idea of a village on the parcel that I own? I had a designer who did a preliminary drawing, but then he got busy and I haven’t been able to get him to adjust the changes in the original drawing he did for me.

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Start Your Own Tiny House Rental Business

Pictured above: Arie & Yuki’s Tiny House Rental ( see inside )

After darting through Thailand’s alternative lodging accommodations, Arie and Yuki decided to bring a similar experience to their backyard. With glamping in mind, they bought a Tiny House, a yurt, a studio shed and a hot tub. And what started as a fun project turned into a side business for this Washington couple. Launched at the height of the pandemic in July of 2020, they focused on an experience that would exceed expectations. The result: “We are as busy as we want to be” touts Arie. His airbnb records indicate the place is rented about 24 days per month, generating over $5,000 in revenue. Most guests are local and many bring their dogs to enjoy this alternative getaway. In just over a year, they’ve hosted birthdays, anniversaries, honeymoons and even a wedding.

Pictured above: Anita’s first Tiny House Rental ( see inside )

Anita Hirth bought a tiny house to be an auxiliary unit for Colorado home. But when her HOA demanded the tiny house be removed, she decided to convert her tiny home into a vacation rental on an RV lot she already owned. 30 minutes from Breckenridge and high up in the Colorado Rockies, her pipes froze many times the first winter, wiping out her profits for the season. She improved her weatherproofing and it’s been big business since then. Anita charges $125 per night summer and winter, and $60-$90 during the off season, ensuring it’s rented year-round. Seeing the success of her first tiny house, Anita now owns 3 tiny house rentals.

Pictured above: Levi’s teen tiny rental house ( see more )

New York investment banker Levi Helms recognized this emerging market and jumped into the tiny house rental business as well. He wanted to offer a unique experience at an affordable price and purchased the tiniest Tumbleweed to keep his costs low and reached out to Anita Hirth for advice on setting it up. From $49-$149 per night, Levi’s rental is by far the least expensive and his income is just over $2,000 per month. Even with lower revenue than the others, Levi has managed an amazing 15% capitalization rate and is currently working to open a 10-15 unit Tiny House Hotel.

Pictured above: Chris’ Tiny House Rental ( see inside )

Chris Hall developed a 22 space tiny house community in Hermosa Orchards. This summer, he launched his tiny house rental to give perspective tenants the opportunity to try before you buy and make some additional income on the side. Grossing about $3,000 per month from his rental, it is substantially more than the $500 lot fee he would ordinarily receive.

All four of these owner/operators manage the bookings through Airbnb, a website that allows anyone to easily and affordable run a vacation rental business on the side. Chris and Arie both do the cleaning themselves, whereas Anita and Levi hire it out. Confirming what every tiny house owner knows, Chris states, “Other than making the loft bed, it’s pretty easy to clean.”

Besides cleaning, each owner needs to budget for regular costs. According to Arie, electricity is about $50 per month and insurance is about $65. In addition, Airbnb has additional coverage up to $1,000,000 for slips and the like. Upkeep is another consideration; over the years linens and plates need to be replaced and upkeep to the tiny house needs to be performed. Anita say it’s mission critical to keep the water running; no matter what.

Get your tape measure ready before you furnish your tiny house rental. Arie learned this the hard way when his wife bought a chair that wouldn’t fit through the front door. He solved this life size Jenga puzzle by cutting off the chair legs and hand crafting new ones. Anita says “Tumbleweeds come ready to go, but a couple of cute pictures, dishware, and linens add up pretty quick”. All told, these owners report spending anywhere from a few thousand to $10,000 outfitting their tiny homes. From tea cups, to a coffee maker, to toilet paper, you can find a full list here .

With hundreds of 5 star reviews on Airbnb, it’s obvious that people love renting these tiny homes. And the occasional bad review? Well the space is just too small for some.

Examples do not include the startup costs such land or furnishings. Example 1 assumes the owner is buying the rental with cash. Example 2 assumes the owner is placing 20% down and financing the Tiny House RV with a loan for $775/mo. Actual income and costs will vary.

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About the author: steve weissmann.

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I would like to learn more about this, I’m very interested. Thank you, Diane Schmidt

This concept is exactly what my husband and I would like to do. Our plan is to buy property and 3 tiny or park model homes in which we will live in one. We live in Florida and would like to stay here but with all of the codes and restrictions, I find it to be a daunting task to solve. We are in Volusia County but are willing to relocate within Florida for the right piece of property. I’d welcome any insight for a starting point anyone may have. Thanks…and what a great idea!

Good to know what others are doing. Some places on this earth people needs this simple hands on idears but they lack it. Why?

I absolutely love this idea! I live in Ontario, Canada. Do you know of anything happening in this area?

I’m happy to see that tiny home rental businesses can be profitable. I despise HOA’s and their totalitarian heavy-handedness when it comes to restricting property rights.

I think there is a market for people to write a book or start a website selling information on how to start a tiny house business. I would love to know where the best types of entails are located, how to accommodate people getting from an airport or other location to difficult to reach spots… what all is required and answers to questions about each and every aspect for both cash investors or those who need to finance their operation. Please contact me at [email protected] if anyone knows if this information already exists somewhere including people who would be interested in investing their time or sweat equity by building and/or managing the business side of such a business.

Steve, Do you know if a Tumbleweed Tiny home that is used as a rental can benefit from Bonus depreciation? I getting mixed messages on this.

best Dennis

That’s a question for a CPA. I do recall a previous buyer mentioning a full first year deduction using section 179.

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Start a Tiny House Business

Turning Small Spaces into Big Dreams with Tiny House Business

TINY HOUSE BUSINESS

Related business ideas, discover your perfect domain, tiny house mini business plan, expected percent margins:, earnings expectations:, actions to hit those numbers:, product and materials:, marketing and customer acquisition:, sales and customer experience:, cost control:, business operations:, not what you had in mind here are more ideas, grab your business website name, step 1: determine if a tiny house business is right for you, breakdown of startup expenses, breakdown of ongoing expenses, examples of ways to make money, step 2: naming the business, step 3: obtain necessary licenses and permits, step 4: create a business plan, step 5: obtain financing, step 6: market the business, step 7: build the tiny house, step 8: sell the tiny house, step 9: manage the business, step 5: secure financing, step 6: find a location, step 7: purchase supplies, step 8: market the business, step 9: launch the business, explore more categories, take the next steps.

Tiny House Business Plan Template & Guidebook

Everyone is trying to figure out how to start a business these days. If you're thinking about being an entrepreneur and building one from the ground up, you need a business plan. This article will guide you from start to finish as we go over the steps you need to take to write a business plan for your tiny house business.

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• How to Start a Profitable Tiny House Business [11 Steps]
• 10+ Best & Profitable Tiny House Business Ideas [2023]
• 25 Catchy Tiny House Business Names:
• List of the Best Marketing Ideas For Your Tiny House Business:

How to Write a Tiny House Business Plan in 7 Steps:

1. describe the purpose of your tiny house business..

The first step to writing your business plan is to describe the purpose of your tiny house business. This includes describing why you are starting this type of business, and what problems it will solve for customers. This is a quick way to get your mind thinking about the customers’ problems. It also helps you identify what makes your business different from others in its industry.

It also helps to include a vision statement so that readers can understand what type of company you want to build.

Here is an example of a purpose mission statement for a tiny house business:

Our purpose at Tiny House Builders is to provide our customers with affordable, sustainable, and comfortable tiny homes that meet their needs and preferences. Our mission is to become the leading provider of tiny homes in the region, offering a wide range of styles, sizes, and options to suit every need. We are committed to using only the finest materials and latest technology, and to providing exceptional customer service, with knowledgeable and friendly staff who can help customers understand their options and make the best choices for their needs. We aim to provide a comfortable, welcoming environment where our customers can learn about the latest trends and advancements in tiny home technology, and to deliver exceptional results that exceed our customers' expectations. We believe that everyone deserves to have access to affordable, sustainable, and comfortable tiny homes, and we strive to provide our customers with the best products and services available.

2. Products & Services Offered by Your Tiny House Business.

The next step is to outline your products and services for your tiny house business. 

When you think about the products and services that you offer, it's helpful to ask yourself the following questions:

• What is my business?
• What are the products and/or services that I offer?
• Why am I offering these particular products and/or services?
• How do I differentiate myself from competitors with similar offerings?
• How will I market my products and services?

You may want to do a comparison of your business plan against those of other competitors in the area, or even with online reviews. This way, you can find out what people like about them and what they don’t like, so that you can either improve upon their offerings or avoid doing so altogether.

3. Build a Creative Marketing Stratgey.

If you don't have a marketing plan for your tiny house business, it's time to write one. Your marketing plan should be part of your business plan and be a roadmap to your goals. 

A good marketing plan for your tiny house business includes the following elements:

Target market

• Who is your target market?
• What do these customers have in common?
• How many of them are there?
• How can you best reach them with your message or product?

Customer base 

• Who are your current customers? 
• Where did they come from (i.e., referrals)?
• How can their experience with your tiny house business help make them repeat customers, consumers, visitors, subscribers, or advocates for other people in their network or industry who might also benefit from using this service, product, or brand?

Product or service description

• How does it work, what features does it have, and what are its benefits?
• Can anyone use this product or service regardless of age or gender?
• Can anyone visually see themselves using this product or service?
• How will they feel when they do so? If so, how long will the feeling last after purchasing (or trying) the product/service for the first time?

Competitive analysis

• Which companies are competing with yours today (and why)? 
• Which ones may enter into competition with yours tomorrow if they find out about it now through word-of-mouth advertising; social media networks; friends' recommendations; etc.)
• What specific advantages does each competitor offer over yours currently?

Marketing channels

• Which marketing channel do you intend to leverage to attract new customers?
• What is your estimated marketing budget needed?
• What is the projected cost to acquire a new customer?
• How many of your customers do you instead will return?

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4. Write Your Operational Plan.

Next, you'll need to build your operational plan. This section describes the type of business you'll be running, and includes the steps involved in your operations. 

In it, you should list:

• The equipment and facilities needed
• Who will be involved in the business (employees, contractors)
• Financial requirements for each step
• Milestones & KPIs
• Location of your business
• Zoning & permits required for the business

What equipment, supplies, or permits are needed to run a tiny house business?

To run a tiny house business, you will need a few key pieces of equipment, supplies, and permits. These include:

• Tiny houses and trailers
• Transportation and storage equipment
• A permit to operate your business (depending on location)
• Business licenses and permits for business activities (if applicable)

You may also need to hire and train staff to manage the tiny house rentals and provide customer service.

5. Management & Organization of Your Tiny House Business.

The second part of your tiny house business plan is to develop a management and organization section.

This section will cover all of the following:

• How many employees you need in order to run your tiny house business. This should include the roles they will play (for example, one person may be responsible for managing administrative duties while another might be in charge of customer service).
• The structure of your management team. The higher-ups like yourself should be able to delegate tasks through lower-level managers who are directly responsible for their given department (inventory and sales, etc.).
• How you’re going to make sure that everyone on board is doing their job well. You’ll want check-ins with employees regularly so they have time to ask questions or voice concerns if needed; this also gives you time to offer support where necessary while staying informed on how things are going within individual departments too!

6. Tiny House Business Startup Expenses & Captial Needed.

This section should be broken down by month and year. If you are still in the planning stage of your business, it may be helpful to estimate how much money will be needed each month until you reach profitability.

Typically, expenses for your business can be broken into a few basic categories:

Startup Costs

Startup costs are typically the first expenses you will incur when beginning an enterprise. These include legal fees, accounting expenses, and other costs associated with getting your business off the ground. The amount of money needed to start a tiny house business varies based on many different variables, but below are a few different types of startup costs for a tiny house business.

Running & Operating Costs

Running costs refer to ongoing expenses related directly with operating your business over time like electricity bills or salaries paid out each month. These types of expenses will vary greatly depending on multiple variables such as location, team size, utility costs, etc.

Marketing & Sales Expenses

You should include any costs associated with marketing and sales, such as advertising and promotions, website design or maintenance. Also, consider any additional expenses that may be incurred if you decide to launch a new product or service line. For example, if your tiny house business has an existing website that needs an upgrade in order to sell more products or services, then this should be listed here.

7. Financial Plan & Projections

A financial plan is an important part of any business plan, as it outlines how the business will generate revenue and profit, and how it will use that profit to grow and sustain itself. To devise a financial plan for your tiny house business, you will need to consider a number of factors, including your start-up costs, operating costs, projected revenue, and expenses. 

Here are some steps you can follow to devise a financial plan for your tiny house business plan:

• Determine your start-up costs: This will include the cost of purchasing or leasing the space where you will operate your business, as well as the cost of buying or leasing any equipment or supplies that you need to start the business.
• Estimate your operating costs: Operating costs will include utilities, such as electricity, gas, and water, as well as labor costs for employees, if any, and the cost of purchasing any materials or supplies that you will need to run your business.
• Project your revenue: To project your revenue, you will need to consider the number of customers you expect to have and the average amount they will spend on each visit. You can use this information to estimate how much money you will make from selling your products or services.
• Estimate your expenses: In addition to your operating costs, you will need to consider other expenses, such as insurance, marketing, and maintenance. You will also need to set aside money for taxes and other fees.
• Create a budget: Once you have estimated your start-up costs, operating costs, revenue, and expenses, you can use this information to create a budget for your business. This will help you to see how much money you will need to start the business, and how much profit you can expect to make.
• Develop a plan for using your profit: Finally, you will need to decide how you will use your profit to grow and sustain your business. This might include investing in new equipment, expanding the business, or saving for a rainy day.

Frequently Asked Questions About Tiny House Business Plans:

Why do you need a business plan for a tiny house business.

A business plan is a document that outlines the goals and objectives of a business, as well as the strategies and tactics that will be used to achieve those goals. It is important to have a business plan for your tiny house business because it helps to focus the efforts of the company, communicate the business's goals and objectives to potential investors, and provide a roadmap for the business to follow. Additionally, a business plan can be used to help secure funding from investors or lenders, who will want to see that the business has a solid plan in place before they provide funding.

How to write a business plan for your tiny house business?)

To build a business plan for your tiny house business, start by researching your industry, competitors, and target market. Use this information to define your business's goals and objectives, as well as the strategies and tactics that you will use to achieve those goals. Next, create a financial plan that outlines your projected income, expenses, and profit. This should include a projected income statement, cash flow statement, and balance sheet. Once you have all of this information, you can use it to create a comprehensive business plan that outlines the goals and objectives of your business, as well as the strategies and tactics that you will use to achieve those goals. A well-written tiny house business plan contains the following sections: Purpose, Products & Services, Marketing Plan (including Marketing Strategy), Operations/Management Plan (including Operations/Management Strategy), Financial Plan (including Financial Forecasts), and Appendixes.

Can you write a tiny house business plan yourself?

Yes, you can write a tiny house business plan yourself. Writing a business plan is a valuable exercise that can help you clarify your business idea, identify potential challenges and opportunities, and develop a roadmap for success. While there are many resources and templates available to help you write a business plan, the process of creating one is ultimately up to you.

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Home ‣ blog ‣ Real Estate Investing ‣ How to Start a Tiny House Rental Business

How to Start a Tiny House Rental Business

by Clint Coons

If you are involved in real estate investing, you may have considered the idea of an Airbnb rental.

Unfortunately, purchasing a large vacation home is not always an option, especially in popular tourist destinations with lots of competition. But what if there was a way to utilize the property you have  and  stand out from the competition? All it takes is a creative hospitality offering.

• Research Zoning and Permits
• Set Up an LLC
• Set Up a Land Trust
• Purchase Insurance
• Market Your Rental
• Determine Property Management Procedures

Airbnb is one of several peer-to-peer (P2P) platforms that allow property owners to connect with interested short-term tenants. Typically for those who are traveling for pleasure or business and need a place to stay overnight. These guests are choosing to forego the traditional hotel experience to rent out a vacant home instead.

Focusing on Airbnb, there are six million properties listed in over 100,000 cities. As you can imagine, this means lots of competition for Airbnb owners. Some Airbnb owners try to stand out from the competition by creating themed accommodations. Then there are others that will work with interior designers to create an especially attractive space. But here we discuss one strategy to help separate yourself from competitors. One of the latest trends in home ownership is the tiny house rental business.

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What is a Tiny House Rental Business?

A tiny house is often regarded as a dwelling that is less than 600 square feet. Most tiny homes are usually trailers on wheels, and are not secured to the ground with a foundation.

If you’re wondering just how big 600 square feet is, it’s probably the size of your living room. A tiny home has all the amenities of a regular home, just on a smaller scale. They typically accomplish this by implementing creative, space-saving features. For example, A bed might fold away to become a couch. A dining room table might slide out of a kitchen counter. Or a staircase might double as a bookshelf or a dresser.

Tiny homes are regarded as compact, cute, and often bohemian. There is usually an intersectionality with the DIY space, as many tiny homes have been converted by their owners from old campers, shipping containers, and even school buses—while others are stunning examples of woodsy craftsmanship.

Are Tiny Homes a Good Rental Investment?

A quick search on social media using hashtags like #tinyhome will show you that the tiny home space is gaining popularity. But are tiny homes more than just a hip trend? Is there a financial opportunity for real estate investors? The answer would seem to be yes.

Tiny homes have consumer appeal because most travelers are looking for unique experiences off the beaten path. Since most tiny homes have all the normal amenities like appliances and a bathroom. More important they afford travelers the opportunity to do some “glamping” without giving up luxuries they’re used to.

Tiny homes also have a smaller footprint. This means that more space can be dedicated to outdoor attractions like a patio, pool, garden, or natural scenery. A guest will certainly enjoy amenities like a fire pit or private deck where they can sip on wine or roast s’mores and watch the sunset.

In addition to their marketing appeal, most tiny home rentals are less costly to set up. The average tiny home will cost anywhere from $30,000 to $60,000 to build. If you’re a do-it-yourself person, you can hire a contractor or a handyman in your network and it might cost less than that.

The downside is that securing traditional financing is going to be a lot more difficult. This is because banks and traditional lenders are not going to view an unsecured home on wheels as a good investment with minimal risk. However, almost 70 percent of tiny homeowners don’t have a mortgage, so traditional financing may not even be necessary.

Before you start brainstorming tiny house ideas, there are a few things you’ll want to do to protect your investment, including:

1. Research Zoning and Permits

If you have a particular plot of land in mind for your tiny home, you are going to want to make sure you can actually put a tiny home there. Local zoning ordinances may require you to have homes over a certain square footage attached to the ground. There may also be certain requirements in regards to plumbing and electricity.

If you own property with larger acreage you may envision a small bungalow colony, like a tiny house village. Before starting, you’ll want to check and see if this is possible and if it requires any type of special permits.

One thing you will want to check on is the rules and regulations around how your ownership is listed. Remember, to protect yourself you want to have your tiny house rental business be an LLC or corporation. Learning how to hide assets from public record  can help you avoid potential complications once your rental is up and running.

2. Set Up an LLC

If you don’t already have your real estate investments set up as a separate legal entity, this is the time to do so. Even if you’ve already used an  LLC  for other properties, you might consider creating a separate LLC for your tiny house rental.

In fact, as a general rule, it’s a great idea to compartmentalize all your properties into separate legal entities. This limits the liability of a potential plaintiff suing to recover damages from your greater portfolio. An LLC is a great entity structure for property owners because it can help separate you and your personal assets from the business.

3. Set Up a Land Trust

You might also consider setting up a land trust as an extra measure of security. In addition to the reduction of legal liability afforded by the LLC, a land trust can help obscure personal ownership. This can add an additional layer of protection for avoiding the incursion of plaintiffs against your personal assets.

A  land trust  can also be a great way to assist in transferring your tiny home business as an inheritance while avoiding onerous transfer and inheritance taxes.

4. Purchase Insurance

Next, you’ll want to buy insurance to protect your  Airbnb investment . Remember that when shopping for insurance, you need to make an honest presentation to the insurer of what the insured asset will be used for. While you can put policies in place to mitigate property damage, offering a property as a rental to unknown parties does come with risks. You never know if someone is going to throw a large party on your property or even try to roll the tiny home into a lake for some viral video content. Be prepared and purchase the right insurance.

Keep in mind that if your tiny home is not attached to the ground, you’re not going to be getting the same type of insurance policy that you would get for an actual home with a foundation. You may instead be getting some type of policy that covers recreational vehicles or trailers. But this might not be enough if there is acreage surrounding the tiny home that will be part of the tiny home rental experience. For instance, if you will have a pool or other landscaping features that can create the possibility for liability, you might want a secondary policy to cover the property as well.

5. Market Your Rental

Your tiny home could be an incredible handcrafted pine cottage overlooking azure mountain lakes, replete with a bubbling hot tub set between natural rocks and fountains. But if nobody knows it exists, nobody is going to book it. The same is true for real estate in general: even if you know  how to buy a rental property , it won’t produce any cash flow if you don’t get a tenant in it.

Listing your tiny home on Airbnb is a great start, but you will still need to market it in other ways. Your best bet is social media. If you can reach out to an influencer and offer them a free night’s stay, you can bet they’ll post pictures and videos on their feeds, generating more business for your rental.

The tiny home vacation rental market is most likely going to be local, so if, for instance, your tiny home is in North Carolina, you’re going to want to focus your marketing efforts on that area. Tiny homes are often suited for travelers looking for a small mini-vacation, one they can easily drive to.

6. Determine Property Management Procedures

You will need policies in place to deal with the practical components of renting out a tiny home. This will include, for instance, check-in and check-out procedures, like where to pick up or leave keys (such as a lock box on site). It will also include policies about what guests can and can’t do, and if they need to be involved in any cleanup.

You will most likely also want to have some sort of procedure for cleaning and turning over the property between guests. If your tiny home rental isn’t close to your personal residence, you will want to solicit the services of a property management company . A good property manager will keep their eye on the property, and let you know if any routine maintenance is needed.

Make Your Tiny House Rental Dreams a Reality

Tiny house rentals are definitely a unique real estate investment opportunity, especially if you are into the short-term rental market.

From the Hudson Valley of New York to the foothills of Los Angeles, tiny house living is a fad that is taking the housing and hospitality industry by storm. Though the tiny house rental business movement is a relatively new investment space, the idea of tiny living has certainly shown to have market appeal, and it may be your opportunity to get in on the front wave of the latest trend.

There are lots of resources in the tiny house community for ideas, tips, and lessons learned from experience. And because the space is low cost and has low competition, it can be a fun opportunity that may even lead to new experiences. So, whether you’re interested in building a small glass house in New Zealand, a tiny cabin in the hill country of New Hampshire, or a refurbished school bus in Portland overlooking Mt Hood, now might be the perfect time to invest in that creative real estate idea.

But before you get too caught up in planning your dream tiny house rental, we encourage you to meet with one of our business structuring experts to create a  free entity formation blueprint . We’ve helped thousands of real estate investors make the right decision about which business entity to form, and we look forward to helping you make your tiny house rental business dreams a reality!

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As always, take advantage of our free educational content . And every other Tuesday we have Toby’s Tax Tuesday , a great educational series. Our Structure Implementation Series answers your questions about how to structure your business entities to protect you and your assets.

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Business Ideas for Tiny Houses

BUSINESS IDEAS FOR TINY HOUSES

When you hear the word tiny house, one instantly thinks of shows like ‘Tiny House Nation’ and ‘Tiny House, Big Living’. Where those wholesome families and adventurous individuals design and build their very own unique homes atop a trailer. We see these people living tiny all over the world, creating an entire community of tiny dwellers. However, what if these tiny houses that have garnered so much love, can be more than just houses? At B&B Micro Manufacturing we allow this concept to grow into unimaginable innovative solutions for more than just the housing crises. The need for shelter is prominent across a wide array of fields, from healthcare, hospitality, retail, education, and so much more. We have laid out a number of business ideas for tiny houses that may just be your next big move as an entrepreneur, small business owner, investor, educational system, etc. 

At B&B Micro Manufacturing we want to break the mold of what tiny houses can be and who they can be for. Let us help you take that crazy idea written in your notes (or on a napkin if your old school like that) and turn it into a life-changing endeavor.

Boutique Clothing

Pop-Up Shops

Tate’s Bake Shop

Lickety Split Ice Cream

EVENT PLANNING

Interactive Design Elements

ARTIST STUDIO

Photography

Woodworking

Dog Grooming

Acupuncture

Mobile Clinics

Traveling Nurse Residences

Mobile Classrooms

Disaster Relief 

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KEEP READING:

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The Future of Portable Restrooms

Tiny Offices

How To Find Tiny House Land: Resources and Knowledge You’ll Need

How to Start a Tiny House Hotel Business

Why Tiny Houses Can Be for Almost Anyone

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How to get started.

Learn more about our process or fill out the form below and one of our tiny house experts will reach out to you.

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Beginners Guides

How to start a tiny house business.

Key Takeaways

• Conduct a demographic analysis to understand the target market’s age, income level, and lifestyle preferences.
• Develop a solid business plan with goals, strategies, and a detailed target market analysis.
• Establish relationships with reputable suppliers and contractors specializing in eco-friendly and space-saving products.
• Craft a marketing strategy that showcases the unique and sustainable features of the tiny houses.

Market Research and Analysis

Develop a Business Plan

Obtain necessary permits and licenses.

Design and Construct Your Tiny Houses

Establish relationships with suppliers and contractors.

Create a Marketing Strategy

Set Competitive Pricing and Profit Margins

Provide excellent customer service, secure financing and funding, continuously adapt and improve, seek customer feedback and reviews, stay updated on industry trends and innovations, expand and diversify your product and service offerings.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can i identify my target market for a tiny house business, what are the potential challenges and risks involved in starting a tiny house business, how can i ensure the quality and safety of the materials used in constructing tiny houses, what are some effective ways to promote and advertise my tiny house business, are there any specific regulations or zoning restrictions i need to be aware of when operating a tiny house business.

Hi, I’m Emma. I’m the Editor in Chief of Tiny House 43, a blog all about tiny houses. While tree houses are often associated with childhood, they can be the perfect adult retreat. They offer a cozy space to relax and unwind, surrounded by nature. And since they’re typically built on stilts or raised platforms, they offer stunning views that traditional homes simply can’t match. If you’re looking for a unique and romantic getaway, a tree house tiny house might just be the perfect option.

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• John’s transformation of a dumpster into a cozy tiny house showcases remarkable creativity and resourcefulness.
• His unconventional living space challenges societal norms and encourages rethinking traditional housing.
• John’s lifestyle inspires simplicity, minimalism, and prioritizing experiences and connections over material possessions.
• The impact and legacy of John’s tiny house have sparked a movement towards more sustainable and minimalist living.

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• Assess your power needs and calculate the load to determine the right size generator for your tiny house.
• Consider your budget and conduct a cost analysis to find the generator that fits your financial constraints.
• Research different generator options, such as solar, propane, diesel, and inverter generators, to find the best fit for your tiny house.
• Consult a professional electrician or generator expert to ensure you choose the right-sized generator and get advice based on your specific electrical needs.

Assess Your Power Needs

Consider Your Budget

Research generator options.

Consult a Professional

Seek advice from an electrician or generator expert, get recommendations based on your specific needs, determine the right size, consider additional features.

Make a Decision and Purchase

How much does a generator for a tiny house typically cost, are there any specific safety considerations to keep in mind when using a generator in a tiny house, can i use a portable generator for my tiny house or do i need a permanently installed one, are there any maintenance requirements for a generator in a tiny house, can i use a generator to power all the appliances and electronics in my tiny house simultaneously.

Affiliate disclaimer As an affiliate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases. We get commissions for purchases made through links on this website from Amazon and other third parties.

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How to Start a Business Building Tiny Houses

By: Author Tony Martins Ajaero

Home » Business ideas » Real Estate Industry » Property Development, Investment & Flipping

If you want to go back to a simpler way of living and at the same time reduce your bills and basically eliminate mortgage, then its high time you start thinking of owning a tiny house . Tiny houses may not have an official definition, but they are generally known to be houses that are small enough to be just 600 square feet or even under. While they can be built on foundations, most tiny homes are built on trailers. Tiny houses that are built on trailers are often referred to as a THOW (tiny house on wheels).

There are several advantages to building a tiny house on a trailer. The two most favorable being, mobility and getting around local rules that dictate minimum structure size. Since a house built on a trailer is not on a permanent foundation, it normally is not governed by local building codes. Many municipalities dictate a minimum home size (square footage), which makes building a tiny house on a foundation not legally possible.

The normal American home is around 2,600 square feet, but the typical small or tiny house can be anywhere between 100 and 600 square feet. The tiny house industry is still undergoing a revolution with a whole lot of people joining the movement.

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What is perhaps even more important than the financial and economic advantages of owning a tiny home, is the environmental benefits. Living in a tiny house carries a much smaller environmental footprint, reduces the amount of resources human beings consume to live, and encourages people to consume less in general. They move us towards a more simplistic way of life and open up the possibility for a more sustainable future.

Tiny Homes are about living simply, beautifully and yet still having everything you need. It’s about freedom from debt and having the economic freedom to live a bigger life, instead of having a bigger house. This is one of the driving principles behind the tiny house movement.

A tiny house business builds, sells and/or rents tiny houses to those looking for a place to live or stay. The financial benefits of a tiny house are considerable. The most obvious savings are with the initial cost of the home. A tiny house can be built for less than the cost of most cars.

And because they are built to the same quality of conventional homes, they can be expected to have a similar lifespan. Despite their lower cost, a properly built tiny house can provide housing for decades. Often priced at $50,000 or lower, tiny houses could be affordable to millennials burdened with student debt and baby boomers with skimpy retirement savings, thus making a good and viable business to start.

13 Steps to Starting a Business Building Tiny Houses

With tiny houses being the current rave, quite a number of entrepreneurs, especially those already in construction, are planning to get into this business. If you think the tiny house revolution is right for you, then we are going to show you how to start a business building and selling tiny homes.

Start with making your research

To start and succeed in any business, research is quite essential. It will help you map out the specifics of your business and discover things about the business you hitherto never knew. When it comes to tiny houses, or houses in general, building materials are the primary expense.

The construction of tiny houses requires an array of materials ranging from wood to nails, bricks, lighting, appliances, flooring and so on. An office for administrative functions will also be necessary. Your office needs computers, printers, desks, chairs and high-speed Internet.

You will also need a team of tiny home builders to construct these cute little houses. Some tiny house builders buy the property upon which tiny houses are built. If you plan on purchasing such property before constructing the tiny houses, be sure to budget for the costly acquisition of land.

The cost of labor is another major tiny house business expense. Your tiny house builders will require a wage of at least $12 to $15 per hour if not more. The construction foreman/manager will require a salary in the range of $45,000 to $100,000.

You will have to hire a receptionist, administrator, marketing professional and accountant as time progresses. A receptionist and administrator will earn between $10 and $15 per hour. Marketing and accounting professionals typically earn between $35,000 and $55,000 per year. You have to all these expenses into account.

A tiny house business has the potential to make six figures right off the bat if the business is planned well. The amount of profit your tiny house business makes hinges on overhead costs, the number of properties your team can build and the state of your local real estate market .

2. Prepare a Business Plan

Running your tiny house business without a business plan would make you go off track along the line and run into problems. Your business plan should be your first priority, as it represents your goals and documents your angle and strategy; it is essentially your road map to achievement.

A workable business plan should include an executive summary , financial aspects of the company, operational procedures and future projections for at least five years. You should also include any applicable investor information, details about products and services you intend to offer and marketing information.

3. Name your business

Choosing the right name for your tiny house business is very important. If you don’t have a name in mind already, you can brainstorm with the things you can see around you, and before long you will come up with a suitable name. Again, you can check business name generators online.

When registering the business name you have chosen, you should check if the business name is available in your state and federally by doing a trademark search, searching the web, and making sure the name you chose is available as a web domain to secure it early so no one else can take it.

4. Sort out your legal entity

Establishing a legal business entity such as an LLC prevents you from being personally liable if your tiny house business is sued. There are many business structures to choose from including: Corporations, LLC’s, and DBA’s. You should also consider using a registered agent service to help protect your privacy and stay compliant.

5. Register for taxes

You are a business so you ought to pay taxes. You need to register for a variety of state and federal taxes before you can open for business. In order to register for taxes you will need to apply for an EIN. Applying for and getting your EIN is easy and equally free.

6. Open a business bank account and credit card

To run your business properly, you need a business bank account as well as credit cards. Using dedicated business banking and credit accounts is essential for personal asset protection. When your personal and business accounts are mixed, your personal assets (your home, car, and other valuables) are at risk in the event your business is sued. In business law, this is referred to as piercing your corporate veil .

Additionally, learning how to build business credit can help you get credit cards and other financing in your business’s name (instead of yours), better interest rates , higher lines of credit, and more. This separates your personal assets from your company’s assets, which is necessary for personal asset protection.

It also makes accounting and tax filing easier. It helps you separate personal and business expenses by putting your business’ expenses all in one place. It also builds your company’s credit history, which can be useful to raise money and investment later on.

7. Source for funds

Starting a tiny house construction business costs money. Of course, the actual amount you need to budget will vary by location, products you want to use and individual facility. In any scenario, you’ll need a sufficient amount of financing to bankroll your business plan.

To calculate your individual capital needs, take into account the amount of funds needed to satisfy your inventory, payroll, lease, insurance and equipment. If you do not have the funds needed at hand, you will have to seek some sort of loan or cash advance.

8. Get licenses and permits

You cannot run a business in the United States if you do not have the correct licenses and permits. So you need to make a budget for this and equally get them. Educate yourself on how to become licensed to run a business in your state. Also investigate the rules and regulations for running retail businesses online and offline .

Based on your findings, study what responsibilities you will have for business taxes. Seek guidance from the department of licensing in your state, the Internal Revenue Service and your local Small Business Association office. Knowing and complying with these rules and regulations will help your business open and stay open.

No matter where you plan to operate your business , an Employer Identification Number (EIN) is required by the IRS for you to report your earnings and pay taxes. Check with your state department or city council or county government agencies to see what permits and licensing is required in your area. You’ll also need the appropriate amount of workman’s compensation and business insurance for you to proceed.

9. Get your Services Contract

Tiny house businesses should require clients to sign a services agreement before starting a new project. This agreement should clarify client expectations and minimize risk of legal disputes by setting out payment terms and conditions, service level expectations, and intellectual property ownership. Your service contract should be drawn up by a lawyer and it should include terms and conditions that can keep your business safe in case of any eventualities.

10. Get Business Insurance

Just as with licenses and permits, your business needs insurance in order to operate safely and lawfully. Business Insurance protects your company’s financial wellbeing in the event of a covered loss. There are several types of insurance policies created for different types of businesses with different risks.

If you’re unsure of the types of risks that your business may face, begin with General Liability Insurance . This is the most common coverage that small businesses need, so it’s a great place to start for your business. Another notable insurance policy that many businesses need is Workers’ Compensation Insurance. If your business will have employees, it’s a good chance that your state will require you to carry Workers’ Compensation Coverage.

11. Hire Qualified Staff

To efficiently operate a tiny house business, you will need enough hands as you may find it overwhelming to do the construction on your own. But before you go ahead with this, you need to be selective of who you hire. Preference should be given to applicants with extensive backgrounds in building and construction.

12. Prepare Your Marketing Plan

Be selective when deciding on marketing methods for your tiny house business. Tiny home-seekers tend to be young adults in their 20s or 30s. Target the media this age cohort is exposed to and you will maximize your marketing dollars. Of critical importance is your website and social media content.

Millennials and other youngsters will almost certainly surf the web, and can easily move over to your website and Facebook, and Twitter pages. Your web presence should be polished. Regularly update your social media accounts and website blog with helpful, intriguing keyword-laden content. You should also guest blog on other relevant websites to gain exposure.

13. Prepare for repeat customers

It is important to hold frequent open houses if you want more and more customers. Do not lose sight of the fact that investing in a tiny house is quite the difficult decision for the average home-seeker. After all, tiny houses are quite unorthodox. Learn all the nuances of your tiny homes so you can explain how a prospective buyer can live in such a small space with considerable comfort.

Making A Living With A Tiny House Based Business

One of the top asked questions about living a nomadic lifestyle be it in a THOW, an RV, a travel trailer, or a luxury cruise ship , is how to earn any sort of living in order to explore the world around you and focus less on the corporate stronghold and more on your passions. It seems to be a riddle for which we are all seeking the answer. It is important though to remember that our priority should not be on making money but finding passion in what we are doing. A tiny house based business should expand with us and not limit our freedom to travel, exploration, adventure, connection, etc. But what can be done as a nomad? What kind of business can be operated on wheels, on the open sea, or from a remote outpost with little interaction other than that with nature around us?

There seem to be two categories of businesses when it comes to the THOW based industry. There are those that cater to the THOW and there are those that are based OUT OF the THOW. Examples of the first category might be:

• Tiny House Sales and Marketing
• Solar Panel Distribution
• Solar Power Maintenance
• Wind Turbine Maintenance
• Housecleaning
• Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning
• Meal Prep and Delivery
• Computer Tech Services
• Trailer Tech
• Brake Specialist
• Spot Welder
• Windshied/Window Repair
• General Handyman
• Wooden Display Signs
• Locksmithing
• Exterior Painting
• THOW/RV Detailing

Examples of the second category might be:

• Web-Based Local Marketing
• Wood craft and Metalsmithing
• Artist – painting, beading, photography, weaving, jewelry, etc.
• On-site yoga, PIYO, pillates, etc.
• Photographer/Videographer
• Medical Transcription/Insurance Billing
• Book publishing and sales
• Newsletter publication
• Musician or performer
• Massage therapist
• Hair Stylist
• Vintage and Speciality Clothing

• eBay stores, Craiglist buy/sell markets, and Etsy storefronts
• Website Design
• Electronic Publication
• ePublisher or author
• Freelance writer/photographer/videographer
• Day Trader or stock investor
• Online Academic Instructor/tutor

The real question(s) at this point is why start a tiny house based business and how to start a tiny house based business? Here are a few quick tips.

• THOW based businesses are new and original.  Showcasing your product or service in a tricked-out THOW or RV ( or even boat ) will draw attention and bring in customers out of genuine courtesy if nothing else.
• You can work anywhere. With a THOW based business you can work from (and to borrow from Lee Greenwood) the lakes of Minnesota to the hills of Tennessee, across the plains of Texas, from sea to shining sea!
• Relatively low start-up costs. If you look at the cost of purchasing (or building) a THOW shell or even just restoring a used RV to that of a sticks ‘n bricks retail space the comparison is quite compelling. Couple that with upgrade and maintenance repair and it is easy to see that a small, mobile space is much less expensive overall.
• Cheap advertising. Unlike a billboard you don’t have to wait for someone to drive past you. Feel like doing a little grassroots marketing? Just jump in and drive. Even a commonplace trip to the grocery store becomes a PR outing!

27 thoughts on “Making A Living With A Tiny House Based Business”

Great article! Way to go 🙂

Thank you so much Marc. Thank you for your readership.

One thing to be aware of is some occupations such as massage therapist, nail tech., hair stylist are licensed on most states. If you are traveling you would need to get a license in each state you plan to work in. Those occupations would work best if you are staying in the State you are licensed in.

The licensing requirements for massage therapists varies widely by location. Many states have no licenses, some are very restrictive, and others have different requirements for each municipality. So, yes, anyone planning a traveling massage therapy business needs to do a lot of research!

Right Ann. When I was on the NCTMB Law and Legislation committee and the Wisconsin Massage board there was about 25 states licensed. Now many more are, but many of the non licensed states had municipal licenses. The hours and requirements vary widely as you said.

Absolutely Swabbie. Even food services require proper inspection and licensure. I am not making an ethical or even legal statement when I say that you can make a decent wage by freelancing as a “front porch barber” type of pro.

Many years ago when I was younger and more energetic I was inspired by a book called Parnassus on Wheels about a travelling bookshop. I wanted to do that, adding a small selection of curios and tea shop that would travel the smaller back roads and visit places that didn’t have their own. The big plan was for a double decker bus with living quarters upstairs, shop downstairs. What with one thing and another it never came to be but I still dream about it.

Alice H: It’s never too late for a dream. You may have less energy and be older, but turn this into a plus. With your life experience, you can find a wiser way to do it and be smarter about these business decisions. Good luck to you!

Thanks, that brought a big smile!

Very nice, you should go for it.

From following Tiny House internet articles, I find more people are ‘contributing writers or bloggers’. Some are photographers or participate in some sort of magazine or documentary writing. Not all of us are gifted with these talents.

Some businesses require a bit more space or equipment than many ‘tiny homes’ can accommodate. That may pose an obstacle for folks wanting to keep a ‘small profile’.

If I may point out Joyce you are saying that you see writers are writers and photographers are photographers. You are right. When following tiny house articles you see professionals doing what they do. But the same can be said if you went to a tax prep office. You would see a tax preparer doing that job. It is all relevant to the location and the task. No, not all are good at everything. A lot of businesses require a bit more space. But that is why the article was about businesses that could be run out of a tiny house. In regards to a small profile it is like everything else. You have to analyze what is feasible and what isn’t.

Regarding: “RON’S HOUSE”, I could only pull up a picture of the outside of his house….are there inside pictures…..and I would love to know about how much it cost to have a little house like this…..Ron’s house looks so fresh and neat from the outside… wonder also where it is located…I find that most bloggers are up north…are there any from NC/SC/Ga?

I see very few …if any….Thank you. PS/wonder if we are kin in some way?

Lovely article! Interesting for a ‘gypsy’ like me. Thank you! PS – what do you need to pull a thing like that? A large truck no doubt…

another up and coming Business is the VIRTUAL ASSISTANT there are many working, and just now becoming more common on the road – like myself.

I have heard more and more people becoming VA’s Darcel. Great point. Any sites to get started in that that we could visit?

I’d like to know, too! Guess I could google but would be nice to hear from an actual person who’s doing it.

Cool Darcel, I will be getting in touch with you soon!! You do exactly what I need help with…

Don’t forget Virtual Assistants!

I just moved from Canada to live back in NZ. I’m a Coach living and working in my bus as I travel around exploring. I just brought my coaching business with me. Most of my clients are in the States, but also Canada, NZ, Australia. The world is such a small place and we have so many choices.

I cannot totally relate but I must say that it is one of the good ideas. Well, just heard that there are some people who consider this and it’s kinda cool.

I am a jeweler, leather worker, beader etc…with shops on Etsy. I have done B&M, lived in apartments, on boats, tiny cottage homes and worked for others for many years, but we just moved into a 32′ RV and we are re-vamping the back room into my work space. I still have a full time tech/data entry/assistant manager job I do for a B&M online, but am looking forward to shifting to my handcrafted work as my full time job. It is exciting! We’ve been having fun creating our perfect living and working space…

I was really thinking about doing this for a start up salon. I love the idea but I would want a open floor plan where it not really a living space. But its a awesome idea I will look into building it myself maybe..LOL

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This is really interesting, You’re an excessively professional blogger.

I have joined your rss feed and look ahead to looking for extra of your magnificent post. Also, I have shared your web site in my social networks

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The tiny house blog, 5 easy ways you can profit from investing in tiny houses.

There has been rising popularity in tiny homes in the last decade or so and there are so many reasons why they have become popular. Real estate is always a good idea so if you’re thinking about making a great investment then consider investing in tiny homes. There are so many ways you can use tiny homes to make a great return so keep reading to find out how. 

1. Start with the basics

One of the reasons tiny homes have become popular is the ease of building one compared to building a full-sized home. A tiny home uses fewer materials, time and physical labor to create so think about taking your investment and putting it into a tiny home company. Look for local companies who have started building tiny homes and talk to them about investing in their business. 

With the growing tiny home market, you are sure to make a great return if you invest in a reputable company with tiny home experience. Tiny homes have also become popular for residential properties and they are often marketed as a fun bonus like a “she shed” (the femme version of a man cave) or a granny flat (a place where the parents of the homeowner can stay while visiting) so they are becoming more than just a trend.

2. Create your own space

Camping has become a thing of the past now that the term “glamping” has come into our vocabulary so why not use some tiny homes to create your own campsite. If you have a piece of property that requires too many extra permits for a traditional commercial property then look into what it will take to create a tiny home campground. This way you will be able to get multiple incomes from one piece of property while keeping your building budget small. 

Keep in mind you will need to follow whatever guidelines and laws the area has for these types of homes. This may require you to do extra paperwork to file the tiny homes as RVs or mobile homes as many places don’t have specific permits for tiny homes. Some areas also require you to provide things like waste removal, running water, or other utilities before you can open them up to guests.

3. Make it into a long term property

Building a home is much more expensive than demolishing the home and fixing up the land. If you are looking to do a quick tiny home flip then look for properties that have great land but terrible housing so you can flip the land instead. People have started to yearn for more outdoor space in the last few years and a tiny home with a large yard is incredibly appealing to some long-term renters. 

As previously mentioned, you will need to see what type of permit you need and the requirements for allowing the tiny home to be on the property. Some cities don’t have any specific requirements in place but that doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s legal. Ask local real estate legal experts on what the legal requirements are for a dwelling to exist and they might be able to help you figure out what to consider your tiny home when it comes to filing paperwork for it. 

4 . Stay close to home

If you have ever thought about building a rental tiny home on your property then now is a great time to do it. Comparing the cost of clearing out the land, building the home, and maintaining it for a full-sized home against a tiny home makes it obvious which one is the better choice. A tiny home will take much less time, money, and work to start up and you can usually put it on your property with no issues or extra permits. 

Tiny homes on Airbnb are currently renting for around $80- $150 per night and that’s a nice chunk of income for an initial investment of around $30,000- $60,000 for a good quality tiny home. It will likely only take you a year or so to earn the money back for your investment and then every rental after that will be pure profit. One major benefit is that you will own the tiny home outright so you won’t have any extra payments. 

5. Go somewhere tiny home friendly

We’ve talked about how you might need to go through some red tape and paperwork depending on where you want to place your tiny home so why not skip all of that and start building in a place that is already zoned for them. Mobile home parks are a great place to look into buying plots of land and replace the existing trailers with tiny homes that have more modern amenities. If you have the funds, you could even buy the whole park and transform it over time with the money you are earning from the regular rental fees. 

There are quite a few ways you can invest in tiny homes and end up with a great-looking return on your investment. Tiny homes are the wave of the future and they have only become more and more popular over the years. Tiny home living isn't going anywhere so embracing it and making some great investments is the best way to go. 

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Tiny house plans and home designs live larger than their small square footage. Whether you’re looking to build a budget-friendly starter home, a charming vacation home, an extra-tiny guest house under 500 sq. ft. , reduce your carbon foot print, or downsize, our collection of tiny house floor plans is sure to have what you’re looking for. Tiny house plans (sometimes referred to as tiny house designs or small house plans under 1000 sq ft) are easier to maintain and more affordable than larger home designs. Sure, tiny home plans might not be for everyone, but for some, it forces them to establish consumption boundaries and keep only the things that matter most. With minimal space, you’re able to enjoy quality over quantity. Most tiny house plans offer open floor plans and outdoor living spaces that allow the home to feel larger than it actually is. In the collection below you'll discover one story tiny house plans , tiny layouts with garage , and more.

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How to Build the DIY Tiny House of Your Dreams

Small footprint...big undertaking.

“Having creative control of your own design, the satisfaction of doing it yourself, and an affordable option to homeownership are all reasons enough for anyone to consider building a tiny home,” Kathryn Linea Rund , a strategic design and development advisor at Real Estate Bees who designed a tiny home as a solution to zoning issues in her Oregon town, explains. “Saving money on labor costs, working on your own schedule, and not having to wait for an available contractor are great positives as well.”

If it’s such an affordable way to build your dream home, why doesn’t everyone put up their own petite pad? Well, for starters, it’s pretty challenging. “It’s a huge accomplishment,” Kevin Fritz, co-owner of Fritz Tiny Homes in Devon, Canada, says. “But building a home in a condensed, compact way doesn’t make things easier.” Plus, without the right know-how and resources, you might end up spending more on corrections. For more information, we spoke with Rund, Fritz, and a few more knowledgeable professionals to learn what it takes to build DIY tiny houses. Whether you ultimately decide to go at it on your own or enlist an expert, here’s a behind-the-scenes look at building a tiny home.

How to Make Your Own Tiny Home

The details will vary by size, scope, and location, but you’ll need to take these basic steps you before you can get started building your dream DIY tiny home.

Step One: Get Approval From Your Town

According to Fritz, a huge drawback to building a DIY tiny home is not having a trusted expert to help guide you through all legalities such as zoning protocol and receiving mandatory certifications. That’s exactly why it’s imperative to talk to your local city or county planning department about the zoning of the proposed property or building site. According to Rund, your local department will be able to advise on everything from the allowed uses of a tiny home to any specific design criteria requirements.

“Some states consider tiny homes built on chassis to be RVs, so they are built to the RV code and can only be set in RV parks,” she explains. “Real property tiny homes are built to the building code that is adopted by that state. These codes determine the materials used, and the wood species and grades will also change depending on your location.”

Step Two: Set a Budget

Though DIY-ing your tiny home will cut down labor costs, the entire process isn’t exactly cheap. “Your cost per square foot for a tiny home is going be much higher than a standard home because the condensed nature of everything adds some extra complexity,” Fritz says. Establishing a budget upfront can help ensure you won’t run out of money midproject.

Step Three: Design a Floor Plan

Now for the fun part! Designing a floor plan is an incredibly personal step that will really turn your DIY tiny house dream into a home. What will make a tiny home your dream tiny home? How many bathrooms do you need? Do you want indoor and outdoor space? There's only one person who can answer those questions: You.

But while designing a floor plan yourself can be lots of fun, you’ll want to consult a professional to make sure your home is structurally sound. “Talking to an engineer is a good way of ensuring that what you are doing or what you're planning is going to work,” Fritz says. You can also opt to build a DIY tiny house based on a preexisting floor plan you buy.

Step Four: Select Materials

When selecting materials, Fritz recommends opting for high-quality pieces that can pull double duty. Topping his list of favorites is spray insulation, which offers a high level of efficiency and structural rigidity—not to mention it allows him to have thinner wall assembly. “Tiny homes tend to wear faster than other homes, so you need to use high-quality building materials—starting from the exterior,” Fritz says. "For example, the overhang of roofs—if they exist at all—are smaller, so your walls are fully exposed all the time.” Though Fritz typically uses a standard wood construction, he notes that people like to use steel too.

Step Five: Prep the Foundation

Before your channel your inner contractor, you’ll want to create a solid foundation by pouring concrete over the ground that will soon support your home or installing a cement block foundation. That said, what’s required often varies by zoning laws and soil type, so it’s important to check with your municipality’s building department first.

Step Six: Start Framing

Think of the frame as the skeleton of your DIY tiny home. You can start this process by laying out your materials to create a map of your home’s floor plan. Though it’s typically easy to create the horizontal parts of your framework, raising the walls can be a little tricky. To help, a small living website called The Tiny Life recommends using a trailer to help prop up (and eventually raise) your walls.

Step Seven: Incorporate Siding, Flooring, and Finishes

Now that you have a frame in place, it’s time to add...well, everything else . (Siding? Walls? Insulation? All of the above—and then some.) Ultimately, there’s a lot of nuance that goes into putting those crucial touches on your home, so it’s a good idea to speak to a seasoned contractor. However, the one thing Fritz says is a non-negotiable is an energy recovery ventilator. “If your home is built and sealed well, high humidity and bad air will build up really fast,” he explains. “They’re cost efficient and really effective at preventing molding issues.”

What Is the Most Affordable Way to Build a Tiny Home?

According to Fritz, there’s no trick to save on your DIY tiny house. Whether your project is an additional dwelling unit or your actual house, it’s important to take the proper steps for safety. (Translation? It’s best to not cut corners.) That said, Fritz says a smaller footprint can make it easier to give old scraps a second life, which can help you cut down on your bottom line. Of course, a smaller space also gives you an opportunity to save on high-end finishes. “If you want to buy really nice flooring, you buy a lot less of it,” Fritz notes. “If you wanna buy really nice windows, you buy a lot fewer of them.”

How Much Does It Cost to Build a Tiny Home?

The final cost will ultimately depend on your floor plan, location, and materials, but going the DIY route can save you a lot. Earlier this year, we reported that the average person could buy (or build!) a tiny home for $30,000 to $70,000; however, you can save up to 50 percent if you take on the labor yourself, Fritz says. For another perspective, Ben Rawson of Zen Tiny Homes in San Diego, says a professionally-built tiny home can cost up to $150,000 whereas a DIY project will run you about $50,000.

When Should You Call a Professional?

Truthfully, the jury’s out. Some tiny home pros would say rookies should never try to build DIY tiny houses from scratch. “It’s okay to DIY your own kitchen cabinets, flooring, paint, and furnishings,” Rawson says. “The rest should be built by professional carpenters.”

But as Fritz is quick to point out, “Everyone starts as a DIYer and becomes a professional because they got good at it!” For this professional, it’s important to take a realistic audit of your plans. “I would put a lot of effort into the planning stage and have a really honest conversation with yourself about what you’re capable of and not capable before you get going,” he says. “You should also hire a professional if it comes to a safety issue.”

Who Can Help You Build a Tiny Home?

The good news is that there are a lot of professional who are ready and eager to help you build the tiny home of your dreams. In addition to hiring contractors, Fritz says it’s a good idea to enlist a skilled tradespeople for your plumbing and electrical. “Having less space complicates just about everything about the build, from your cabinets to your plumbing to your electricity,” he says. “You can’t correct a building burning down from an electrical short,” he adds.

The one professional you won’t need to hire? A designer. Don’t worry, we have you covered with these standout tiny home ideas .

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7 Tiny House Kits to Make Your Minimalism Dreams Come True

By Mary Henn

Updated: Aug. 06, 2024

These houses might be tiny, but they're big on style (and functionality).

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It’s the year 2023, and tiny homes are becoming increasingly popular. Just ask Bailey Moran, a 10+ year veteran in the real estate industry and the COO of Austin TX Realty . “Amidst rising inflation, the median home price has increased drastically. People are inclined to buy tiny homes rather than big family units,” she says. “These homes are much more affordable and require less maintenance.”

Beyond being budget-friendly, tiny homes are more energy-efficient than traditional homes. “Tiny homes use less material and energy, which makes them environmentally-friendly,” Moran says.

If you’re interested in jumping on the tiny-home bandwagon, we’ve looked high and low for some of the best tiny house kits on the market. Whether you’re looking for a tiny-house kit for a backyard WFH space or a steel frame kit for a one-bedroom tiny home to live in, you’re going to want to check out the tiny house kits we found below.

Best Budget Tiny House Kit

Cedarshed ranchhouse gable solid and manufactured wood storage shed.

Best Tiny House Kit for Plants

Little cottage company colonial gable hobby greenhouse.

Best Work Pod Tiny House Kit

Vifah composite workpod.

Best Overall Tiny House Kit

Plus 1 sea breeze 1 bedroom tiny home steel frame building kit.

Best Tiny House Kit for a Guesthouse

Plus 1 seattle tiny home steel frame building kit.

Best Tiny House Kit for a Backyard Studio

Canopia copenhagen studio shed.

Best Outdoor Gazebo-Style Tiny House Kit

Purple leaf outdoor screen house.

Shop on Wayfair

This ranch house kit from Cedarshed doubles as a tiny house kit for your backyard. It offers 16 feet by 14 feet of space for less than $13,000. And it includes everything you need to make the shed a tiny home space: Windows, shutters, flooring, double doors, shingles and flower boxes.

The Cedarshed kit is water-, weather- and rot-resistant and has a wind rating of 20 mph. This kit makes a great start to your backyard she-shed or the shop space of dreams.

• Kit includes nearly everything needed for assembly
• Natural cedar wood
• Flexible door placement
• Sustainable
• 1-year warranty
• Foundation and assembly required

This well-designed greenhouse kit from Wayfair comes pre-assembled, primed and ready for paint! The walls are delivered in panelized sections, and everything is precut and labeled for easy assembly. Plus, the 8-foot-by-8-foot greenhouse cottage has a ton of windows, so your plants will get all the sunlight they need.

While this tiny colonial-style house kit is most definitely a greenhouse, we think styling it as an adorable cottage and even adding some seating inside would be an enchanting addition to any garden space.

• Includes shelving, door, floor an ventilation
• 25 safety glass windows with screens and 12 transom windows
• Weather-, water-, UV-, rot-, wind- and mold-resistant
• Freestanding
• Relatively affordable
• Ideal for avid gardeners
• Foundation and anchoring kit not included

While this tiny house kit is certainly a splurge, if you’re looking for a backyard work pod, this kit delivers. This autonomous pod is a simple, flexible way to add an office or studio space to any piece of land and take working from home to a whole new level. With inputs for heating and cooling, you’ll be able to use it year-round.

The best part? It’s done in a day. The pod comes with clear assembly instructions and can be built in just a few hours. Its interior space is just shy of 8-foot-by-12-foot. We love the idea of putting this pod in a woody environment or near water for a serene workspace.

• Quick and easy assembly
• Very durable
• Sound absorbing
• Outlet included
• LED lighting
• Ventilation
• 3-year warranty
• Very expensive

Shop on Home Depot

This steel-frame one-bedroom tiny house kit is designed for easy assembly on a concrete slab, and The Home Depot offers almost all the finishings you’ll need to make this house a home: Doors, windows, electrical, plumbing, finishes and more.

You can upgrade this kit with deck and flooring options, and you can modify it by changing the door opening to a different side or adding a wall on the inside. The beauty of steel kit homes is their extreme strength and durability. Steel frames are not affected by termites , mold, rodents or bugs. Steel is also recyclable and fire-resistant. The Sea Breeze kit is 366 square feet, and the plan has space to configure a bedroom, living room and bathroom area.

• Pre-assembled, high-quality steel panels
• Termite- and shrink-proof for easy maintenance
• Simple instructions
• 50-year warranty
• Financing is available
• List of materials required to finish home included
• Home Depot construction and build team helps to determine the materials necessary to build each project
• Non-returnable

If you’re looking for a tiny home that will add space for guests, the Seattle Tiny Home Kit is a solid choice from the Plus 1 line. Like the option above, this kit is designed for assembly on a concrete slab and includes a steel frame structure. At a modest 200 square feet, it’s a smaller choice than the Sea Breeze kit, but the plan still includes space for a bathroom area.

While the base model does not include a deck, a deck and flooring system can be added as an upgrade option. Finishes are not included either, but the Seattle has many size and design options to choose from for an additional cost. P.S. If you’re serious about tiny home living, you need to check out Tumbleweed Tiny Homes , too.

• Only the steel frame structure (shell) included

Shop on Overstock

Create a stunning studio space in your backyard with the Copenhagen Garden Office Kit . Whether you’re looking for a detached art space or an outdoor yoga studio, the backyard office kit has triple-wall insulation for year-round use. Plus, the infrastructure has space to set up any hidden wiring or pipes for electricity, internet or water and can support an air conditioner.

The 9-foot-by-11-foot studio kit has a Scandinavian-inspired design. The sleek black frame and paintable panels keep it modern, while the front of the outdoor studio is completely clear, including the wide double doors that open for the ultimate indoor-outdoor experience.

Choose where to place the two windows, sunroof panel and included shade to optimize your view and natural lighting. There’s no need for an expensive renovation with this kit. You can achieve an outdoor home studio or office that is beautiful, functional and affordable.

• Modern, customizable design
• Compatible with standard electric plugs
• Triple wall insulation has space to hide pipes and electric wiring
• Versatile and safe
• Weather-resistant
• 12-year warranty
• Requires foundation

Shop on Amazon

This multifunctional building kit can be used as a stylish sunroom, studio, hot tub house or backyard party space. It offers privacy and shelter from the wind and rain and has LED lights that can be operated by a switch or remote.

The oversized windows are complete with netting that allow let light in and allows for air circulation. For as low as $1,800, this gazebo-style tiny house kit is one to look at if you’re simply wanting to add a hangout space to your backyard.

• Multiple size options
• Multi-functional
• Back and front double sliding doors
• Includes LED lights
• More of an outdoor shelter space than an outdoor room or tiny home

What to Look for When Buying a Tiny House Kit

Tiny house kits are relatively new to the market, and you can expect to see more available as demand increases. There are a few main things to consider when shopping for a tiny house kit. Budget, size and intended purpose are all things to think about when you start looking.

Most tiny homes are 400 square feet or less in size. Depending on whether you plan to use your tiny home as an additional office space or haul it behind a vehicle, size and weight are critical to take into consideration.

The price of tiny house kits varies widely. If you’re shopping for traditional tiny house kits, you can expect to spend a minimum of about $12,000—and that price often includes the frame alone. Once you begin adding finishings like windows, doors, flooring and outlets, you can expect the price to increase significantly.

However, if you’re shopping for a kit that provides additional shelter, storage or workspace outside of the home, there are cheaper options available, like the gazebo- and greenhouse-style kits above.

How We Found the Best Tiny House Kits

As shopping experts, our only job is to help you find a winning product. We start with the research and reporting basics—what products are made of, what they look like and how much they cost—to ensure that we’re only recommending the buys that are worth your time and money. Then, we research the features that speak to the product’s quality, taking advice from industry insiders and subject-matter experts on what makes a product a smart value (or worthy of a splurge). Finally, we do the work of combing through user reviews to see how real people interact with the product, and if it stands up to the test.

What type of foundation do tiny houses require?

While the recommended foundation for tiny houses depends on the individual kit, most tiny house kits require a concrete foundation. You should consult your tiny house kit’s manufacturer before laying a foundation. And you’ll want to be sure to research zoning laws where you live before you begin building your tiny home.

Originally Published: March 22, 2024

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New to the Neighborhood? Here are Some Key Ingredients to Helping Grow Your Small Business

Living the dream can look different for every person. Some picture buying a new house in the kind of place they want to settle into for years to come. Some feel a strong desire to start their own business and give back to their community. For others, the dream could be a mix of the two— launching a small business from their new home.

If your hopes and dreams involve business ownership in a new community, congrats! The opportunities are endless—and the to-do list can feel that way, too. It helps to have people who can answer questions and keep you moving in the right direction, which is just part of what a State Farm agent can offer. As a small business owner like you, a local agent can help with retirement planning and insurance coverage as well as building a network with other local professionals.

To see what this looks like in action, let’s set the scene: Imagine you’ve been working your most of your life to perfect an amazing sourdough loaf and unique scone flavors. After finding a gorgeous brownstone in a quaint neighborhood, you are ready to start your own home baking business. 

The question is, beyond the recipes themselves, what else is needed in your recipe for success?

Start with a plan

As a bakery owner, the day starts bright and early. You don’t want to waste time waiting for the coffee to set in… You need to hit the ground running by mixing up dough, letting your bread start to rise, and making sure the fan-favorite cinnamon rolls will be ready by the time customers start placing orders. Having every ingredient in place and certain things prepared ahead of time—like that cream cheese icing—can help you make efficient work of the tasks in the morning.

Similarly, as a small business owner, having a plan in place can actually help alleviate a lot of pressure on a day-to-day basis. By getting help creating a business insurance plan tailored to bakeries from a helpful agent, you can feel confident that you have coverages against such things as injuries, business interruption, and fire. Bakery owners can also appreciate food spoilage coverage, so it’s not a big deal if the latest thunderstorm knocked out power and you need to toss some of the items in the fridge.

Keep your cool

They say if you can’t handle the heat, stay out of the kitchen. But that’s where you feel most at home—so it’s essential to have the strategies that can help you cope with a workplace crisis. For example, picture going about your morning when you’re faced with an equipment breakdown. With coverage under your State Farm Small Business plan, it’s much easier to look on the bright side. Repairs for covered equipment means you don’t need to spend more dough .

By working with a State Farm agent (whether you really are in the bakery business or in one of the 300+ professions also eligible ), you can talk through the details with someone who understands the community. Plus, if you’re moving to a totally new geographic location, someone who’s already enmeshed in the area can help explain why certain things like hail, fire, or earthquake coverage can be important parts of property protection .

Support your community

Second only to baking, building a team of employees who feel like members of your family may very well be your favorite part of owning a business. Those relationships are also built on trust and respect. Not only do they need intel on the top-secret muffin recipes, but your employees know you have their best interests at heart with worker’s compensation coverage . Besides, when you work with a local insurance agent, you are supporting the neighborhood, too.

Closing up shop

Even after closing up shop when the last sweet treat is sold, your work isn’t quite done for the day. Cleaning, doing some prep for tomorrow’s items and counting the money in the register is just part of the day’s work. When that is all done, you are finally able to take a well-deserved break.

On a long-term level, you probably want the same out of life—just by getting to enjoy retirement when you hang up your apron for good. A knowledgeable State Farm agent can help explain employee retirement benefits options, such as a SEP Plan , which includes you as an eligible participant. An individual 401k is another good way to set aside more income.

As a bakery owner in a new community, you need to think through what’s non-negotiable: You need to make the best baked goods possible. You need to get to know your new neighbors. And you may to get the protections that fit your business. By working with an agent , you will be well on your way to sweet success.

Prices are based on rating plans that vary by state. Coverage options are selected by the customer. Availability, amount of discounts and savings, and eligibility vary by state.

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In Louisiana's Cancer Alley, company cancels plans for grain export facility in historic Black town

Associated Press

Lynda Van Davis, Greenfield's counsel and head of external affairs, announces that the company is "ceasing all plans" to build a grain export facility in the historic Black community of Wallace, La., in St. John the Baptist Parish, Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024. (AP Photo/Jack Brook)

WALLACE, La. – Residents of a historic Black community in Louisiana who've spent years fighting against a massive grain export facility set to be built on the grounds where their enslaved ancestors once lived appear to have finally halted the project.

A representative from the company, Greenfield Louisiana LLC, announced during a public hearing on Tuesday evening that the company is “ceasing all plans” to construct a grain export facility in the middle of the town of Wallace in St. John the Baptist Parish.

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After a moment, opponents of the project broke out in cheers and began clapping and hugging each other.

“I’m still obviously in disbelief — I can’t believe this is happening, but I’m ecstatic and all praise to the ancestors,” said Joy Banner, a Wallace resident and one of the most vocal opponents of the project. She and her sister, Jo, founded The Descendants Project to preserve the community’s heritage.

The company’s announcement signaled a rare win for a community in a heavily industrialized stretch of the Mississippi River known as “Cancer Alley” for its high levels of pollution. Wallace is about 50 miles (80 kilometers) west of New Orleans.

“I think all of the fighting – it is coming from the love and the passion for our communities we have here along the river, and to show the world we can and you should fight,” Banner said. “We are recognizing that we do have power – that power comes from the love we have for our community.”

Earlier this year, the Banner sisters’ nonprofit purchased a plantation which had been the site of one of the largest slave rebellions in American History, the 1811 German Coast Uprising. They plan to transform it into an educational space.

The Army Corps of Engineers had already found the 222 acre (90 hectare) facility, could adversely impact cultural heritage sites in Wallace, and was tasked with reviewing Greenfield’s application.

Army Corps representative Brad LaBorde said his agency had not been informed in advance of the company’s unexpected decision to cancel plans for the facility.

“We don’t know exactly what that means,” LaBorde said. “We still have an active permit application so, if it is Greenfield’s intention to no longer pursue the project, then we would ask they formally submit a withdrawal to us so that we can conclude the review.”

Lynda Van Davis, Greenfield’s counsel and head of external affairs, said the long delay in government approval for the project has been “an expensive ordeal,” adding that she did not have an answer for when the company would submit a formal withdrawal to the Army Corps.

“This has been a difficult ride the whole time, we didn’t wake up yesterday and say we’re done,” Van Davis said. “We said we’ll stay in the fight a little bit longer, because we’ve become friends with this community. Unfortunately, how long are we supposed to stay in this fight?”

The Army Corps had found the project could affect historic properties in Wallace, including the Evergreen, Oak Alley and Whitney plantations. There also remained the possibility that the area contained burial sites for the ancestral Black community.

Some community members had supported the project, believing it would bring jobs to their town, even as opponents of the facility said tourism surrounding cultural heritage was already a thriving industry that deserved greater investment.

“I was looking forward to economic development in my community – jobs, new businesses, just all around better living for my community,” said Nicole Dumas, 48, a Wallace resident, who supported the project.

But the evening became a celebration for others. Angelica Mitchell, 53, held back tears as she took in the company’s announcement. Mitchell is still recovering from treatment for a rare form of cancer which had attacked her pancreas, but she chose to attend the public hearing despite her health struggles. The facility would have been built within a few hundred feet of her home.

“To hear that they are backing out, I am so excited, my prayers have been answered, because I’ve been praying for this for the last three years,” Mitchell said. “I’ve been asking God, just don’t let this plant come into our community. I don’t want this for our children.”

This story has been corrected to show the hearing took place on Tuesday, not Monday.

Jack Brook is a corps member for The Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues.

Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.

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Where Tim Walz Stands on the Issues

As governor of Minnesota, he has enacted policies to secure abortion protections, provide free meals for schoolchildren, allow recreational marijuana and set renewable energy goals.

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By Maggie Astor

• Aug. 6, 2024

Gov. Tim Walz of Minnesota, the newly announced running mate to Vice President Kamala Harris, has worked with his state’s Democratic-controlled Legislature to enact an ambitious agenda of liberal policies: free college tuition for low-income students, free meals for schoolchildren, legal recreational marijuana and protections for transgender people.

“You don’t win elections to bank political capital,” Mr. Walz wrote last year about his approach to governing. “You win elections to burn political capital and improve lives.”

Republicans have slammed these policies as big-government liberalism and accused Mr. Walz of taking a hard left turn since he represented a politically divided district in Congress years ago.

Here is an overview of where Mr. Walz stands on some key issues.

Mr. Walz signed a bill last year that guaranteed Minnesotans a “fundamental right to make autonomous decisions” about reproductive health care on issues such as abortion, contraception and fertility treatments.

Abortion was already protected by a Minnesota Supreme Court decision, but the new law guarded against a future court reversing that precedent as the U.S. Supreme Court did with Roe v. Wade, and Mr. Walz said this year that he was also open to an amendment to the state’s Constitution that would codify abortion rights.

Another bill he signed legally shields patients, and their medical providers, if they receive an abortion in Minnesota after traveling from a state where abortion is banned.

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Democrats Harris, Walz campaign together for first time as White House ticket

• Medium Text
• Walz has pushed a progressive agenda on school lunches, climate
• Harris chooses Minnesota governor over Pennsylvania governor
• Republicans Trump, Vance portray Democratic ticket as far left

TRUMP, VANCE CALL WALZ 'RADICAL'

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Reporting by Nandita Bose and Jeff Mason; additional reporting by Andrea Shalal, Jarrett Renshaw, Steve Holland, Gram Slattery and Kat Stafford; writing by Jeff Mason and Joseph Ax Editing by Colleen Jenkins and Deepa Babington

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Thomson Reuters

Jeff Mason is a White House Correspondent for Reuters. He has covered the presidencies of Barack Obama, Donald Trump and Joe Biden and the presidential campaigns of Biden, Trump, Obama, Hillary Clinton and John McCain. He served as president of the White House Correspondents’ Association in 2016-2017, leading the press corps in advocating for press freedom in the early days of the Trump administration. His and the WHCA's work was recognized with Deutsche Welle's "Freedom of Speech Award." Jeff has asked pointed questions of domestic and foreign leaders, including Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korea's Kim Jong Un. He is a winner of the WHCA's “Excellence in Presidential News Coverage Under Deadline Pressure" award and co-winner of the Association for Business Journalists' "Breaking News" award. Jeff began his career in Frankfurt, Germany as a business reporter before being posted to Brussels, Belgium, where he covered the European Union. Jeff appears regularly on television and radio and teaches political journalism at Georgetown University. He is a graduate of Northwestern University's Medill School of Journalism and a former Fulbright scholar.

Tense Israel in waiting as attack threat looms

Israel's ambulance service has stocked blood supplies in a fortified underground centre, factories have moved out hazardous materials and municipal authorities are checking bomb shelters and water supplies as the country waits for a threatened attack from Iran and its proxies.