What to Look for in a Used Tiny House

There are many people who only live in their tiny house for a couple of years and then decide that they need a change. Some of these folks rent out their house or make a vacation cabin out of it. But some choose to sell it. If you are interested in owning a tiny house and are not wanting to build it yourself or wait to have it completed, then buying a used tiny house might be for you. Caveat Emptor (let the buyer beware)! There are a few things to consider as you make your way through the secondary tiny house listings. Here is what you need to know when buying a used tiny house.

Find Out Who Built the Used Tiny House

This is probably the most important piece of information that you need to consider. The problem with the tiny house movement is that some folks build without much experience. So there is little regulation when if comes to building and inspecting tiny houses. That means that there are few ways to prove that the house was built by someone competent. Look for houses that were built by experienced builders. Call those builders and find out how many houses they have built and what number house this was for them.  Many contractors learn the nuances of tiny house building as they go so later models will be better than the ones in the beginning. If you have the ability to see the builder’s current work in progress, it may give you a better idea of what you are buying.

Consumer Built Houses

Don’t automatically walk away from a house built by a couple, a family or a kid right out of college. Building a tiny house is not as hard as you may think. But you want some sort of proof of their quality. See if they have taken detailed pictures or video of their build. That goes just as much for professional builders as well. Tiny Home Builders makes sure that we have a video diary for every house we construct. These are also helpful if you are moving to a jurisdiction that has to inspect your house. You would hate to have to take apart your walls just to show how everything was put together. If you don’t have any construction experience you may find it difficult to know what questions to ask when determining if a house is built to a higher quality. This is an area you will want to spend some time educating yourself before making a purchase. Read some blogs or better yet grab a construction book like the Tiny House Design and Construction Guide and do a little studying. The small investment in time now may save you considerable headaches in the future.

Ask "Why is the Used Tiny House for Sale?"

Some people truly do fall out of love with the tiny lifestyle. Others have a couple of kids and realize that they need a little more space. But there may be some people that have problems with their house and are just trying to unload it and move on. Do your due diligence and ask questions of the seller. One of my favorite ways to get good information is to ask, “So if you were building another house, what would you do differently?” It is not that you are looking for them to incriminate themselves, (but it is ok if they do) but truly you would love to hear their sticking points because it might be something that you wouldn’t like either. e.g. “I wish I had put a full sized sink in the bathroom.”

Consider The Price

Remember, because there are no true codes and building regulations in some areas for tiny houses means there is no real way to consider depreciation or appreciation. Make sure you look at what it would cost to have a new home built but also consider the time it would take to build a new house when you can just tow this one away. Also consider the location and transportation costs to get the home to where you want it. One home may have a higher asking price than another, but if it's closer and you don't have to pay to have someone move it, the prices may work out to be the same.

Look At The Features Of The House

Start with the trailer which is probably the most important piece as it is the foundation that everything is sitting on. Find out who made it, was its primary purpose to hold a tiny house or something else. How heavy is the house and what does the VIN plate say the weight the trailer can hold and do they match up? (if not, check the number of lug nuts on the tires, this will usually indicate the axle's weight rating)  Was the house built for a specific climate or for specific usability? Does the home have any kind of warranty left on it? And be sure to see what kind of utilities the house has. It may be set up to be off-grid, but you really want a flush toilet. Or the previous owners were never home so the solar kit that they purchased was enough for them but not for you because you work at home.

The real worry when picking up almost anything used is how it was treated while it was being used by the previous owner. With tiny houses, you have to keep the construction in mind as well, as your usage of the house will probably be different. But don’t worry too hard. With the abundance of new builders coming to the market and the popularity of tiny houses increasing, finding a used tiny house will become easier and easier. One of the best online resources is our marketplace for tiny houses for sale. We make sure that all the listings are current and you can search by a specific house feature that you can't live without. We have also included a video to help you spot a scammer. Be sure to check this out before you begin your used tiny house search.

Popular Tiny Houses from the Tiny House Marketplace

Check out a just few of the most popular tiny houses on the marketplace right now.

Tiny House on Wheels (8

Tiny House on Wheels (8'x20' Trailer)

More pictures and videos provided at request. Located in Denver, CO 80205. Clean title, I’m the original owner, everything works, built custom and delivered in August 2021. This tiny house is built on an 8’ x 20’ trailer and has been parked in the same spot since delivered. Features: Sliding glass door, sliding bathroom door, fully insulated, 2 mounted outdoor lights, whiteboard walls, p...

Learn more about this Tiny House on Wheels (8'x20' Trailer) for sale.

Gala with all upgrades

Gala with all upgrades

This gala is 11 foot wide 43 foot long park model with a total of three 99 ft.² including the loft space is 450. It includes a bedroom and bathroom in the loft big loft the kitchen feature the stationary island white cabinets features as well a large farm sink, stainless steel appliances, washer dryer combo the model, boost, unique and luxury designed choices all possible upgrades you can get they...

Learn more about this Gala with all upgrades for sale.

As Seen on TV THOW

As Seen on TV THOW

Tiny House on Wheels (THOW) for Sale — $35,000 OBO A unique opportunity to own a charming, customizable tiny home on wheels. Built in 2017 by Perch & Nest for a TV show (Homestead Recuse), this THOW provides a solid foundation for your vision. The interior and exterior were professionally completed, offering a sturdy structure ready for your personal touch. Details: Dimensions: approximatel...

Learn more about this As Seen on TV THOW for sale.

2021 Shadow Cruiser Upgraded and Remodeled

2021 Shadow Cruiser Upgraded and Remodeled

Tired of campers that look like they were designed by people who hate color? So were we! This 2021 Shadow Cruiser 257MKS isn't just a camper—it’s a professionally designed and remodeled tiny home on wheels. While your neighbors at the campground are drowning in fifty shades of beige, you'll be living your best Instagram-worthy life in a space that actually feels like home. This is the level-up...

Learn more about this 2021 Shadow Cruiser Upgraded and Remodeled for sale.

What used tiny houses have you seen that you liked? Would you ever buy a used tiny house? Let me know in the comments below.

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