Many see tiny houses as a ridiculous concept.
However, not everyone feels the same.
But, small and tiny houses certainly aren’t for everyone. Unsurprisingly, there are some inevitable downsides to having a significant lack of space.
On the fence about whether this type of property is for you? Let’s take a closer look at whether a micro house is for you.
What is a Micro House?
A mini house is typically a home under 37 sqm.
That might sound like a lot, but in reality, it’s akin to a tube carriage. It comes with little more than a bedroom-cum-living room, with a kitchenette off to one side (separate if you’re lucky) and an en-suite bathroom.
The Pros of Micro Homes
So, let’s weigh in on the pros of tiny homes in the UK.
Lower Prices
Micro homes are much more affordable (typically half the price of your average London flat). So, many see them as a way to get on the property ladder.
If you’re a first-time buyer, should you dismiss this? Or should you see it for what it is: a potential first home.
Cheap mini houses are far easier to come by than normal-sized homes! Therefore, for many, investing in a micro home is a much more attractive option than paying rent for someone else’s property.
More and more of us are seeing tiny homes as a great way to save money for that final, dream property.
Less Maintenance Involved
Along with less initial upfront costs, you’ll also have less maintenance costs involved, due to the smaller space.
In fact, there will be less to maintain in general.
As well as this, the cost of utilities will be significantly less also, even than those of a shared property. Let’s face it, we’re all keen to save money on utility bills. Who doesn’t like the sound of low energy bills?
Lack of space doesn’t sound appealing at first. However, for some, the money-saving perks outweigh this.
Easy to Clean
This point might sound trivial, however, it’s a positive for many. Less space means less space to clean!
It might mean your home looks untidy more easily, but less surface area means less surfaces to wipe down.
Clever Storage is Key
There are many ways to make a small area feel bigger!
A window helps to create an illusion of space.
Plus, clever storage is key to successful micro-living. There are many ways to make the space work, if the situation feels right for you.
The Cons of Small Homes
Despite some positives, there are some inevitable downsides to micro homes in the UK.
So, what should you consider if you’re on the fence, with regards purchasing a micro property?
Getting Stuck in One Place
Many consider tiny houses as a temporary, money-saving solution.
Saying that, first-time buyers have to make an enormous leap to get onto the property ladder. This is thanks to the astronomical prices of housing in cities, combined with a chronic lack of affordable homes.
Therefore, in what are the most densely populated areas, you may find yourself living in your micro home for longer than you anticipated.
It’s amazing how quickly you adjust and adapt to your surroundings, so what was once a short-term fix can become a long-term solution.
Lack of Value
Which? found that micro homes don’t necessarily increase in value like their more traditional counterparts (6.9% compared with the 8.7% for a larger home).
So, when it comes to selling, while you’ll have saved on rent and utilities, you may not make a profit.
House prices are ever-changing, but micro homes might not be the best way to get your foot on the property ladder.
Going Stir Crazy
If you’re considering buying a mini home in the UK, question whether you could deal with the lack of space. Be honest with yourself.
Try this: picture yourself spending a wet weekend in February in the property. Would you go stir crazy, or would you cope?
No matter the size of your home, it’s essential to do your research on its surrounding area. From crime rates to neighbourhood demographics to local schools, ensure you gather as much information as possible. A property report can tell you all of this and more. Get your full report here!
Last Updated: January 3rd, 2024
