Tips on Buying Land for a Tiny House

The tiny home seems like a recent trend, but it has been around for a long time. Writer Henry David Thoreau’s book Walden documented life in a small cabin in the 1800s. And humans have lived in small dwellings throughout history.

However, the modern tiny home movement and the lifestyle it offers continue to increase in popularity. Over half of all Americans would now consider living in a tiny home. 

While the benefits of living in a tiny home continue to increase, there are also new challenges. One factor to consider is buying land for a tiny house. 

The sooner you understand how to find and buy land for a tiny house, the easier the process will be when you find your dream tiny home. Read on for the tips on buying land you need to know.  

Finding Land for a Tiny House

So, where do you look for tiny house land? The best way to start is to research specific sites with land sale sites. It is a lot easier than driving around and hoping to find land for sale. 

Sites such as Lands of America, Zillow, and LandWatch all list land for sale. You can search for land, lots, and by specific area. Some are at auction, and others are for sale or rent.

Using a search site is one of the most convenient ways to narrow down your search. You can filter your search listings and locations to see what is available. It can also help trigger inspiration and give you an idea of your options.

Other options are to talk to loved ones about any land they have available or what they know about. There are also forums, social media pages, and sites such as Nextdoor advertise areas you can stay. 

Zoning Laws and Regulations

Imagine buying land then realizing you cannot put your tiny house there. 

When finding land for a tiny house, it is also important to check local and state laws. You need to comply with building codes and zoning to live on the land in your tiny house. Zoning laws refer to land laws that regulate how you can use property and land.

Laws vary depending on your state and local regulations. For example, areas of California like Sacramento allow tiny houses as ‘caregiver dwellings.’ There are also other areas, such as Fresno, where tiny homes are allowed without being a caregiver. 

A building inspector may also come to your tiny house to check it is built safely. So you need to check codes, which can define sizes of homes and different rules if your tiny house is on wheels or not.

Type of Tiny House Land

Consider what type of tiny house land you want. Do you like urban, rural, or suburban land? There are positives and negatives for each land.

For example, in rural settings, you can utilize many benefits of downsizing to a tiny house. You will have more options for land and the potential for more space. There are fewer restrictions too, but it is more remote and maybe off-grid.

Urban settings can be more challenging, depending on what type of space you want. If you find a backyard or driveway, it can be an excellent spot to be near a job or involved in city life. However, there can be issues with parking, more building regulations, and more expensive spaces.

Suburban settings have more land options and utilities available. However, there are still restrictions and costs to buying land for a tiny house here.

Your Tiny House Type

It is also helpful to decide on what type of tiny house you want before finding land. Some regulations may allow specific types of tiny houses, such as those on wheels. You do not want to get set on your ideal tiny house land but not have your perfect tiny home. 

Consider Tiny House Utilities 

One of the essential tips on buying land is to consider utilities so you make an informed decision you do not regret. Do you need power, water, and other utilities? Or will you go off-grid and use solar power or other options?

If the land is far from utility connections, such as city water, plan the logistics. You will need your own water system, such as a well, if it is allowed, or get it transported in. You also need to consider electricity, sewage, and heating systems if appropriate to the area. 

Factor in Development Costs

When you want to buy land for a tiny house, be sure to factor in all costs, not just the initial land price. After all, remote land can come with significant development costs. And you have to think about how you will transport your tiny house to the property. 

Some land prices include permit fees, tree removal, water tests, utility hookups, a property survey, and more. So check what is included and overestimate your budget for development costs. You can then feel more confident finding tiny house land with the right budget.

Consider Other Tiny House Land Obstacles

No one can plan for everything. But if you can finance your tiny house, its land, and adhere to regulations, you are doing great. The most complex parts usually are finding land for a tiny house, development details, and parking.

Also, consider whether you want a plan B if your search for land is taking longer than expected. Talk to loved ones or look in a different area for a temporary option. 

Buying Land for a Tiny House Made Simple!

Buying land for a tiny house takes some commitment, but it will be worth it in the end. Picture yourself enjoying your beautiful dream home in the perfect setting for you. And always consider these tips on buying land. 

But before you buy land for a tiny house, you need your new tiny house home. 

Are you ready to custom-build your tiny home? Develop your tiny dream house with the highest quality and best support. Do not hesitate to contact us to learn more.