One of the most common questions we receive is: "I’m ready to purchase a tiny home—where do I start?" Buying a tiny home is an exciting journey, and to help make the process as smooth as possible, we’ve outlined the key steps to take before beginning the build process.
Step 1: Before Buying a Tiny Home Determine Where You Will Park or Place Your Home
Before anything else, it’s crucial to decide where your tiny home will be located. This is one of the biggest challenges in tiny home ownership, as zoning regulations vary from city to city and county to county.
Tiny Homes on Wheels (THOWs): Check with the zoning department in the city or county where you plan to live. Even if you’re placing your home in a friend or family member’s backyard, you’ll need to confirm that local regulations allow for it.
RV Parks: More RV parks are opening up to the idea of tiny homes on wheels. A quick phone call can determine whether an RV park near you allows them. These parks can serve as a temporary or even long-term parking solution.
Tiny Home Communities: As interest in tiny homes grows, so do designated tiny home communities. A simple Google search can help you find locations and their specific requirements.
Modular Homes & ADUs: If you're considering a modular home or adding an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) to an existing property, the local zoning department will be able to provide guidance on square footage requirements, setbacks, and other necessary permits.
Step 2: Secure Financing
Financing options for tiny homes depend on the type of home you choose:
Tiny Homes on Wheels (THOWs): Traditional mortgages do not apply to THOWs. However, many of our clients have successfully obtained personal loans from lenders such as LightStream and SoFi.
Park Model RVs: These qualify for financing through 21st Mortgage, but the home must be legally parked and permitted.
Florida-Built Modular Homes: These homes qualify for traditional home mortgages. You can either work with your preferred bank or the lender we recommend.
Step 3: Define Your Design Priorities
Once you have a parking location and financing figured out, it’s time to think about the specifics of your tiny home. Consider:
Size: How much space do you need? Do you want a home that remains within the 8’6” width of a standard tiny home on wheels, or are you considering a park model or modular home with additional width?
Must-Have Features: Think about the key elements you want in your home. Do you need a main-floor bedroom, an office space, or extra storage solutions?
Step 4: Establish a Realistic Budget
Understanding your budget is essential. It helps to research what tiny homes typically cost, factoring in customizations, finishes, and delivery. Knowing your budget will also ensure you can make informed decisions during the design process.
Step 5: Schedule a Phone Consultation
After finalizing the key details—parking, financing, design, and budget—the next step is to schedule a phone consultation with us. This allows us to discuss your vision, answer any questions, and determine if Movable Roots is the right builder for you.
Step 6: Visit for a Private Tour
Once we've had our consultation and discussed your project, we can schedule a private tour to further explore your options and refine your vision for your tiny home.
Ready to Get Started?
Taking these steps before the build process ensures a smoother experience and helps avoid common roadblocks. If you’re ready to move forward with your tiny home journey, schedule a consultation with Movable Roots today!
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