In recent years, a new trend has emerged that is capturing the attention of young adults amidst the ongoing housing crisis in the USA. People are now turning to websites like Amazon to purchase tiny, expandable prefabricated houses, offering a potential solution to the shortage of affordable housing options.
One TikToker, known as 'Gilgra2024,' recently shared his excitement with his followers as he showcased his newly purchased $30,000 tiny home in a viral video. His chosen model, the 'DOINUO Mobile Expandable Prefab House,' comes with a restroom and an outdoor storage shed, according to its Amazon listing.
Amazon's tiny home measures L19 x W20 x H8 ft and boasts a generous storage capacity, as described on the e-commerce giant's website. The product is designed with convenience in mind, featuring foldable components that allow it to occupy a small area when not in use. Its sleek and attractive appearance adds a touch of elegance to any setting.
However, Gilgra2024 is not alone in becoming a proud owner of a tiny home. This growing phenomenon has gained traction, particularly among millennials, who are feeling the impact of the housing crisis. According to Axios, there is currently a deficit of approximately 3.2 million homes in the United States, resulting in high housing prices.
Amazon offers a variety of 'portable prefabricated tiny homes' at similar price points. For instance, the brand Zolyndo offers three options, ranging from a 13-by-20-foot structure with a bathroom for $19,999, to a larger 15-by-20-foot option with a restroom for $34,999. These houses can be shipped within four to five days, thanks to Amazon's quick delivery service.
One group of social media creators even tested the functionality of these tiny homes by purchasing one from Amazon and sharing their review on TikTok. Their video showed the excitement of unpacking and exploring the compact living space, complete with a bathroom that arrived with the water already connected.
The trend of buying tiny homes has its roots in the early 2000s when many millennials sought an alternative to the large, traditional homes that were prevalent in the late 20th century. Tiny homes represented a rejection of the previous norms and a desire for a simpler, more sustainable lifestyle.
In recent years, tiny homes have evolved from a lifestyle trend to a potential solution for the housing crisis. They align with the desire for privacy and offer an affordable option for those struggling to find suitable housing. Brian Miller, a professor of sociology at Wheaton College, explains that they also challenge the idea of constantly increasing home sizes, which has been the norm for decades.
However, it is important to approach the tiny home trend with caution. Elizabeth Illing, a 37-year-old living in a rented tiny home, warns about misleading marketing and urges potential buyers to be aware of all the details. She shares her own experience, as her rent increased significantly after the first year, making it challenging to afford her tiny home.
For those considering moving into a tiny home, Elizabeth advises paying close attention to the lease agreement and even talking to current residents to gain firsthand insights into their experiences. While tiny homes offer an attractive solution to the housing crisis, it is essential to fully understand the terms and potential future costs associated with these compact living spaces.
Overall, the rise of tiny homes on platforms like Amazon reflects the need for innovative solutions to address the ongoing housing crisis. Whether individuals are purchasing their own tiny homes or renting them, these prefabricated houses offer an alternative living option, providing a glimmer of hope in a challenging housing market.
