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All You Need to Know about Tiny Homes!
Here you’ll find out exactly what a tiny house is, the pros and cons, and where you can find a tiny home in the Raleigh / Durham area of North Carolina. If you are just looking for tiny homes for sale, click here!
What Is a Tiny House?
Isn’t a tiny house just a small house? Well, no.
Typically, any home that’s between 400 and 1,000 square feet is considered a small house. A tiny house is even smaller, at 100 to 400 square feet. In fact, the average tiny house weighs in at just 186 square feet, according to The Tiny Life.
These houses are not just four small walls, or a large-house layout on a tiny scale, though; they’re built with thoughtful design that combines functions. Every nook and cranny is used in a creative way to maximize storage and living space. For example, a bench may hide a table that folds out when you’re ready for dinner.
Looking to become more self-sufficient? You can even get a tiny house that generates its own electricity and water, so you can live entirely off the grid.
But more than a style or a size, the tiny house is a movement. People opt for these micro spaces to live in a more environmentally friendly way, spend less on housing so they can spend more on experiences, and have fewer obligations weighing them down.
A 550 square foot tiny / small home in Chapel Hill, NC
What Are the Advantages of a Tiny House?
From finances to freedom, let’s talk about all the benefits of opting for a tiny house.
Tiny houses are (relatively) inexpensive.
The materials for the average tiny house cost just $25,000. Your total costs will depend on whether you build it yourself or have someone do it for you. Compare this to the price of regular homes in the Raleigh area, which can range from $115,000 to close to $10 million.
These money-saving benefits add up. In fact, 68% of tiny house owners have no mortgage, compared to almost 30% of all U.S. homeowners, reports The Tiny Life. And 55% boast more savings than the average American.
You can be more environmentally friendly in a tiny house.
Less space means you have less to heat and cool—which translates into lower energy usage.
A tiny house is less of an obligation.
Imagine how much less time it would take to clean 186 square feet than the median home size in 2020 of 2,386 square feet! You’ll also need to do less maintenance because...well, there’s less to maintain. Finally, you won’t have to shop for furnishings to fill up a lot of rooms you rarely use anyway.
A tiny house gives you more freedom.
Since tiny houses are less expensive and require less maintenance, you have more time and money for things you consider more important. Some people have been able to quit their jobs after buying a tiny house! Not to mention, if your house is on wheels you can travel without ever leaving home. Another example is instead building a Mother in Law Suite, you just build a tiny home for family to stay in.
You may be able to live in a nicer neighborhood.
You have your eye on a particular neighborhood in the Raleigh/Durham area, whether it’s because of the quality of the schools or the proximity to a park...but the houses out of your budget. If you can build a tiny house in the neighborhood, you can get all the benefits of the location without the hefty price tag. (See below, though, for issues with zoning laws—and how some people get around them.)
Zoning may allow to you to build a tiny home where big homes aren't possible
In cities like Durham NC you can often build tiny homes on small 2,000 square foot lots, whereas larger homes would not be approved by the city for that size lot. Please check with the city on zoning prior to purchasing any lots or doing any subdivision, since this option is more available closer to downtown Durham than further away.
A 480 square foot tiny / small home located in Raleigh, NC
What Are the Disadvantages of a Tiny House?
Despite these advantages, living in such a small space is not all sunshine and roses. Let’s take a look at the cons of tiny homes.
Tiny houses may not be as inexpensive as they seem.
If you need to rent or buy land, the price of a tiny house isn’t so tiny anymore. The price can also increase depending on the materials and appliances you choose, and how much help you need building it. See here for land available in the Raleigh/Durham area.
Zoning laws may not allow tiny houses.
In some areas, zoning laws stipulate a minimum size for houses—and a tiny home will typically not hit that minimum. According to Money Crashers, some people get around this law by buying a larger house, renting it out, and keeping their tiny house on the property as an “outbuilding” or a “vehicle.”
Tiny homes may be bad for your health.
In an article on why so many tiny home enthusiasts end up upsizing, The Globe and Mail reported that living in an overcrowded space takes its toll on mental and physical health. Also, imagine the fights and resentment that can brew up: you love your family, but do you want to be crammed into a 200-square-foot house with them 24/7/365?
It’s hard to entertain in a tiny house.
Have a lot of friends or a big extended family? Not in a tiny house, you don’t. You can say goodbye to hosting holiday gatherings, dinner parties, book clubs, and maybe even sleepovers for the kids. Even if you could fit that many people into your home, would you have room for all the dishes, food, and other items you need to entertain?
Try Before Buying a Tiny House
Like all homes, tiny houses have their pros and cons. Wondering if a tiny home is right for you? Try renting one for a vacation. You can rent a tiny house on AirBnB or VRBO, and there are even vacation rental resorts like A Tiny House Resort in upstate New York.
And if you’d like to start looking now for your perfect tiny home in the Raleigh/Durham area, check out our listings below.
Tiny and Small Homes for Sale in the Raleigh / Durham Area
Cute little two bedroom, one bath house perfect for investors. Appliances are included. Home is in need of additional foundation support and priced accordingly. Property ...
- 2 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 2436608 MLS
- PENDING Status
It's "The Little House Next Door"... cute home with updated floors and recent paint nestled at the end of the street on a nice lot with hardwood trees. This home would be...
- 2 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 2514765 MLS
- PENDING Status
Great little starter or investment home. Convenient Location, Large covered back deck for the cool evenings ahead. Roof was installed in 2022, Updated Plumbing, Upgraded ...
- 2 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 2534729 MLS
- PENDING Status
Fantastic opportunity to own a cute 2/1 near the Village of Alamance. This home is ready for the decorator in you, to make a great place to live or add to your investment...
- 2 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 2537797 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Upset Bid date by 11/27/2023. Bid amount = $126,000.00 No value is given to the house on 500 N Main St. This is a court-ordered sale, and it is subject to Wake County Cou...
- 2 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 2499699 MLS
- PENDING Status
Newly Renovated 2 bedroom 1 bath Move in ready home! Roof and hvac have been recently replaced as well! Kitchen Features White Cabinets LVP floors, Freshly Painted! Gr...
- 2 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 2540413 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Charming ranch home conveniently located with quick access to the highway. Property boasts 3 light filled bedrooms and 1 full bathroom. Loads of potential. Great for an i...
- 3 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 2533906 MLS
- PENDING Status
Charming 2 Bedroom/1 Bathroom house in Burlington. Features large living room. Wonderful kitchen with lots of cabinet space and granite countertop. 2 large bedrooms. Huge...
- 2 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 2538628 MLS
- PENDING Status
3.34 Acres, Secluded 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath Studio. Comes complete with Detached Garage, several other storage buildings and just minutes from I-85 N for easy commutes. So mu...
- 1 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 2530529 MLS
- PENDING Status
BACK ON MARKET! NO FAULT OF SELLERS... Buyer Financing fell through. Adorable 2 Bd, 1 Ba Move-in Ready Ranch in quiet neighborhood. Open & Bright Living Room with Built-i...
- 2 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 2536541 MLS
- PENDING Status
Charming Updated Bungalow, Near Downtown Burlington! The homeowners pulled out all of the stops with this renovation! This move-in ready home is convenient to highway acc...
- 2 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 2532576 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Charming 2 Bedroom/1 Bathroom home in Burlington. Features large living room. Kitchen with lots of cabinet space. 2 large bedrooms with a full bathroom. Refrigerator, Was...
- 2 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 2537308 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Seller has lived her since 1969! Great Neighborhood & Schools! Fixer Upper. Hardwood Floors in Bedrms & Living rm & Hall. Large Lot. Walking Distance to Shopping. Make Th...
- 2 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 2542342 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Charming 2-bed, 1-bath bungalow in great condition right here in growing Burlington! If you've been dreaming of finding your next home before the holidays, This May Be Th...
- 2 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 2541438 MLS
- PENDING Status
INVESTOR OPPORTUNITY: 1951 Bungalow only 10 minutes from Duke. 2 generously-sized bedrooms and living room provide ample room for relaxation and personalization. The ...
- 2 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 2542396 MLS
- PENDING Status
Welcome to this charming home in the heart of Wendell! This cozy gem is a perfect blend of modern convenience and comfort. 2 bedrooms provide a cozy retreat or versatilit...
- 2 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 2542122 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Renovated in 2015
- 2 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 2520978 MLS
- PENDING Status
INVESTORS BUNDLE: MUST BUY ALL 3 PROPERTIES AS A PACKAGE. 2015 Cheek Rd MLS #2539072 is 0.17 acres $57,500 Vacant Lot 2101 Cheek Rd MLS #2539074 is 0.92 acres ...
- 2 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 2539071 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Welcome to this charming home in the heart of Wendell! This cozy gem is a perfect blend of modern convenience and comfort. 2 bedrooms provide a cozy retreat or versatilit...
- 2 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 2542122 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Gorgeous Updated End Unit minutes away from Downtown Raleigh! Perfect Location! Low HOA fees! This two-bedroom home has an open floorplan on the first floor, a beautiful,...
- 2 Beds
- 2 Baths
- 2537520 MLS
- PENDING Status
TAKE A LOOK at this gem in a cozy N. Durham neighborhood that sits on over 1/3 of an acre! Features include a rocking chair front porch, hardwood flooring with new carpet...
- 2 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 2541140 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
* BACK ON MARKET BC PLANNING DEPT DID NOT LIKE ADU PLAN ACTIBE AND TAKING OFFERS UNTIL THIS IS RESOLVED IF IT Can be!!BUILDER'S SPECIAL! This large lot in Walltown is wai...
- 2 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 2493963 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
BUILDER'S SPECIAL! This large lot in Walltown is waiting for the right builder or person wanting to build. Existing home has framing in the interior, new windows, new vi...
- 2 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 2493963 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Renovated in 2015
- 2 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 2520978 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Step into this renovated home nestled in the Glenbrook neighborhood of Durham Spread over 984 square feet, this residence comfortably accommodates 3 bedrooms, and 1 full ...
- 3 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 2496467 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
This classic ranch is overflowing with modern updates. New flooring, new paint, new doors, new lighting and fans in every room. The kitchen is a chef's delight, offering ...
- 3 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 2537905 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
PRICE REDUCED....The home might be an investor's dream or could be a first-time starter home. There is over .5 ac. of flat land near the Amazon Plant and near downtown Ga...
- 2 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 2528032 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Newly Refinished Hardwood floors, New septic from tank to field in 2023 (April), Metal Roof, Mini Split Heat/ Cool. Acreage within 2.5 miles of Pittsboro courthouse. Bric...
- 2 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 2527533 MLS
- PENDING Status
LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION!!! Investor, Builder or homeowner special located in the heart of Durham and close to everything including transportation, hospitals, unive...
- 2 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 2507808 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Introducing a fantastic opportunity! This charming house boasts 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom,hardwood floors, replacement windows. Set on a generous 0.33-acre lot, it offers a...
- 2 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 2539179 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
PRIME NORTH RALEIGH LOCATION w/EASY ACCESS TO I-540 & DOWNTOWN RALEIGH! This property is being marketed with the intention for possible rezoning and/OR tear down by buye...
- 2 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 2515497 MLS
- PENDING Status
Back on the market! Lovely remodeled 2 Bedroom & 2 Bath home on deep lot. Here's what's new on the exterior: Roof, gutters, soft gray vinyl siding, insulated windows. And...
- 2 Beds
- 2 Baths
- 2541068 MLS
- PENDING Status
Welcome to a fantastic investment opportunity in the heart of Raleigh! This one-story home is situated on a generous 0.28-acre lot and offers the perfect canvas for your ...
- 2 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 2540154 MLS
- PENDING Status
Welcome to your dream home in Durham! This recently renovated 3-bedroom, 1-bathroom gem offers both style and convenience. Step inside to find new luxury vinyl flooring a...
- 3 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 2536090 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Investor's Special! 2bd/2ba ranch style home close to NCCU. Just minutes from Downtown Durham and less than 5 miles from Duke. Cute and cozy, this home was updated in ...
- 2 Beds
- 2 Baths
- 2527108 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Private country living on almost 3 acres w/well, septic & NO city taxes but less than 10 min to NCSU, Crossroads Shopping, Downtown Raleigh,Lake Johnson, & more! Tenant c...
- 2 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 2529329 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
INVESTER ALERT OR PERFECT STARTER HOME/LOVELY HOME FOR EMPTY NESTERS. 8Min to Downtown Raleigh. Less than 5 Min to every major Highway I40, I440, I540, 64 and 70. This CO...
- 2 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 2541699 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
LOCATION! LOCATION! Just minutes from beltline access and downtown Raleigh. Home is move-in ready, open canvas for your cosmetic Updates. Peaceful neighborhood, with l...
- 3 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 10000292 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
AMAZING Opportunity to be ITB for UNDER $300K! Charming Ranch on almost 1/4 acre lot MINUTES to Downtown Raleigh Events and FUN! Custom kitchen is OPEN to Great Room fea...
- 3 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 2542492 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Tenant is mostly moved out. Refresh and re-rent or build your dream home.
- 2 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 2534803 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Fantastic Investment Property! Rented for $1400 p/mo and tenant would like to stay! Super cute bungalow in the Rockwood neighborhood! Close to restaurants, shops and g...
- 2 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 2542779 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
House comes with 2 additional lots totaling approximately .45 acres... Potential for additional properties to be built on site. House needs some TLC. and is being sold "A...
- 2 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 2542405 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Absolutely adorable single story home with a huge fenced yard, remodeled kitchen that features quartz counters, new appliances and subway backsplash! New Luxury vinyl flo...
- 2 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 2543121 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Absolutely adorable single story home with a huge fenced yard, remodeled kitchen that features quartz counters, new appliances and subway backsplash! New Luxury vinyl flo...
- 2 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 2543121 MLS
- PENDING Status
This well maintained and beautiful Durham bungalow features the most premier selections you will find in this price point! Upon entry you will immediately notice the cust...
- 2 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 2542666 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Welcome to your completely renovated home! No stone left unturned - new roof, new windows, new HVAC, new water heater, new cabinets, new floors, new front porch and back ...
- 3 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 2543308 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Adorable bungalow in the charming Belvedere Park neighborhood! This home sits on a large flat lot. Previously a 2-bedroom, converted into one large master bedroom! You ca...
- 1 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 2543262 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
This beautiful 2 bedroom 1 bath house is in an AMAZING location INSIDE the belt line with beautiful modern updates to bring it to life. The updates include New roof (202...
- 2 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 2539240 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
BUYER INCENTIVE AVAILABLE with accepted offer! Use for a rate buy-down, closing costs, etc.! Have you been looking for an updated home to move into? Look no further becau...
- 3 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 2522869 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
This charming home is perfect for those who value extra living space and outdoor relaxation. A fenced in backyard, and a sitting area in the backyard for perfect spot to ...
- 2 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 2537195 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Phenomenal location! Absolutely gorgeous, modern bungalow. This floor plan seamlessly combines the living room, dining, and kitchen into a practical, functional living ar...
- 2 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 2543244 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Charming, recently updated residence located just a stone's throw away from the vibrant heart of Downtown Raleigh. This delightful home features 3 bedrooms and 1.5 baths,...
- 3 Beds
- 2 Baths
- 2542749 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Location! Prime lot in a growing downtown Raleigh Neighborhood. Walkable to DT restaurants, entertainment, parks, and much more. Home to be transferred as-is. Bring a bui...
- 2 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 2540617 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
A stunning rehab in the heart of Durham. Walking distance or short bike ride to Downtown Durham, Duke, DPAC, and DBAP. Brand new roof, kitchen, flooring, ceiling fans, ...
- 2 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 2534793 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Currently tenant occupied please don't go and show! Great investment for investor or if you dream to build your dream custom home. Property sold as is.
- 1 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 2518419 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Charming ranch in Belvedere Park with welcoming rocking chair front porch! This home is situated on a very large plot of land so close to downtown Raleigh! Opening the fr...
- 2 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 2518122 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Charming ranch in Belvedere Park with welcoming rocking chair front porch! This home is situated on a very large plot of land so close to downtown Raleigh! Opening the fr...
- 2 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 2518122 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Investor Alert! Great lot in Roanoke park, walkable to 5 points, Trophy Brewing and pocket park. Build your dream home. Adjacent new construction is over 1 million val...
- 2 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 2543093 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Great Investment opportunity in West Hillsborough! This is being sold with the homes and lots associated with pin#'s 9864388872, 9864388581, & vin#2056FK22591
- 2 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 2540002 MLS
- PENDING Status
Unveiling an extraordinary opportunity in a highly sought-after location inside the beltline, just minutes from downtown, this property boasts a generous 1/3-acre lot, id...
- 3 Beds
- 2 Baths
- 2501295 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Attention investors and builders! Great opportunity to flip/hold/build on Seawell Ave. with new construction in every direction. Currently leased month to month and mus...
- 2 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 2543440 MLS
- COMING SOON Status
STUNNING, CUSTOM, FIRST-OF-ITS-KIND NOMAD HOUSE Owner is selling this incredibly special furnished single-family home, as the startup built this house as an experimental...
- 1 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 2533453 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Fantastic opportunity in the heart of downtown Raleigh! Four lots side by side, ready to be developed! Tear down and rebuild, renovate and expand for historical tax cred...
- 2 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 2538412 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
Fantastic opportunity in the heart of downtown Raleigh! Four lots side by side, ready to be developed! 810, 812, 814 and 816 all for sale. Tear down and rebuild, renova...
- 2 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 2538426 MLS
- ACTIVE Status
If you've wanted to build your custom dream home in coveted Mordecai neighborhood, here's your chance! Bring your own builder and design your perfect home for this flat ....
- 2 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 2506143 MLS
- PENDING Status
If you've wanted to build your custom dream home in coveted Mordecai neighborhood, here's your chance! Bring your own builder and design your perfect home for this flat ....
- 2 Beds
- 1 Baths
- 2506143 MLS
- PENDING Status
Listings provided courtesy of Triangle MLS, Inc. of NC, Internet Data Exchange Database. Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. © 2023 Triangle MLS, Inc. of North Carolina. Data last updated .