The latest trend toward smaller homes is a result of the economic recession, but has many benefits to both homeowners and our nation. It is reported that nearly 60% of the builders in the United States are building smaller scale homes, by the American Institute of Architects, and the higher demand for such construction is reinforced by the reduction in other costs of housing.
As everyone’s IRAs hit the skids in early 2008, so did the demand for larger houses causing a lot of the chaos still being ironed out in the real estate market. With the lack of money came a desire for a smaller scale home that worked and the square footage average dropped by over 300 square feet.
Many of the newer residences are even being built from salvage parts further reducing their costs. Many of the smaller scale houses that are being built are utilizing wood from old barns that are being torn down, or even older homes that are no longer able to be occupied.
The comparatively low price of 40-90 thousand dollars for a little home illustrates their true value, especially when viewed in the light of homeowners still receiving luxuries like modern homes.
The small homes one California builder makes can be put on a foundation or on wheels. The retail costs for his plans are around one thousand dollars and they are erected for the mid thirties. He relates constructing a small home to tailoring a suit. Each plan has the homeowner in mind and is adapted to fit any specific desire or need they may express. The traditional construction that many small houses have to utilize are space savers like build in cupboards and storage space.
When big businesses like Home Depot and Lowe’s get into the business of selling home kits, you know that it is becoming a growing trend.
Given the tendency of people with extra room to accumulate more stuff, the little home size helps many people deal with the materialist nature we all tend to have. Many homeowners are taking those exact thoughts to heart and exchanging their energy “McMansions” for smaller, if not more humble homes.
Many people prefer the modern features of larger homes, but you do not have to go without when you buy a little home. The appliances in the smaller scale residences do not have to scaled down due to the incorporation of double door refrigerators and claw foot tubs. The green houses angle is one that cannot be overlooked in terms of a little home size either.
Not only do smaller residences have a lower mortgage payment but they also have reduced energy expenses. The smaller scale homes tend to have an 8 foot ceiling height which is more energy compliant than a vaulted or cathedral ceiling. With fewer square feet in the floorplan, smaller houses require less energy to either heat or cool them off so you can save on your energy costs in a big way with them.
In addition to the previously listed traits, a smaller home will also increase the best use of your building lot in many ways. With more room on your lot due to the fact that you home now takes up less space on your lot, you can use your lot to put up solar panels, solar water heaters or grow your own veggies. Putting up that extra concrete pad for a basketball hoop may even be a reality!
The author enjoys writing articles on short sales in Meridian Idaho and Meridian Idaho short sales.
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