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!
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
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
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?
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.
PRIME INVESTMENT! MOVE IN READY! Situated less than 15 minutes to Elon University and only 5 minutes to Downtown Burlington. Enjoy comfort and convenience for modern livi...
Calling for investors or first time home buyers. Cash, conventional. 2 Bedrooms and 1 bath. Home has been previously rented and seller marked no representation on the Res...
Sitting on over an acre of land, house will need full rehab to be brought back to life, but just imagine the peaceful living once complete. 3 bedrooms and 1 bathroom, jus...
Excellent investment opportunity or starter home in Burlington. This cozy two bedroom one bath has a newer Roof and HVAC. Rent it out as is or do some cosmetic upgrades...
**Highest and Best Due by Saturday 03/16 at 5pm***Step into the realm of possibility and potential with this one bedroom, one bathroom home awaiting your transformative t...
Fix and Flip with Additional Lot! Take advantage of this unique opportunity just 20 minutes outside of Burlington, NC! This property sits on just under half an acre and c...
Prime investment opportunity! Currently generating great rental income with tenants in place, this property offers stability and profitability. Nestled in a highly desira...
WOW! Run, don't walk to see this fully renovated home! New electrical, new plumbing, new floors, new Mini Split HVAC System, new granite counters, new fixtures.
Excellent development opportunity in Walltown! Perfect for new construction. Also a potential renovation project or spruce it up and keep it as a rental. Home is locat...
Welcome to this charming 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom Ranch home perfectly situated in a fantastic location! With its practical layout and inviting features, this residence offe...
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...
Updated 2 bedroom, 1 bath home located on a large lot. This home offers spacious rooms, granite countertop, stainless steel appliances and laminate flooring throughout. ...
Fantastic opportunity to own a cute 2/1 near the Village of Alamance. This home has been recently modernized with luxury vinyl plank flooring, complete interior paint, gl...
Opportunity knocks on Drew Street: The Millhouse cottage currently rents for $1,600/month. Hold it in rental or rehabilitate to your tastes. Old home features include mol...
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...
Calling all First Time Home Buyers and Investors. What a cute starter home on a quiet country road with 2 acres of land and NO RESTRICTIONS!! Metal roof in 2015 and vi...
Welcome to this charming 3-bedroom, 1-bathroom home that sits on a sprawling 0.78-acre lot. The entire home has been remodeled in 2021, so you can enjoy modern amenities...
Welcome to 2729 Newsome St, Raleigh, NC 27603—a perfect opportunity to embrace comfortable ranchstyle living! This charming home features 2 beds and 1 bath, offering a co...
Charming 3 Bedroom/1 Bathroom home in Burlington. Features open living room that leads into the dining room. Updated kitchen with new cabinets and lots of counter space w...
Welcome to your dream home! This charming bungalow has undergone a complete renovation, offering a perfect blend of modern upgrades and classic charm. This 2 bedroom, 1 b...
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...
Start a new year in this beautiful just renovated and refreshed home available now in Graham NC with .26 acres of land. Great cozy starter home with two bed and one bath....
Welcome Home to this 2 bed 1.5 bath updated bungalow. New roof, new paint from top to bottom, new flooring, cabinets, countertops and appliances. You do not want to miss ...
Excellent first time home buyer or rental property. Zoned R-10. On Public transportation route and approximately 1 mile from downtown Raleigh near Wake Med Center.
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...
Charming Ranch steps to quaint Downtown Garner with a bright floor plan and upgrades galore! Features a beautiful kitchen with shaker cabinets, granite countertops, glass...
Cute! Cute! Cute! Cozy 2 Bedroom 1 Bath waiting for your buyer to call home!!! This property was renovated in 2015 and conveniently located in Garner. Great for first-ti...
Sale Includes 200 & 206 W Holly Springs Road! Highest & best use of property is to purchase it along with the 0.54 Acres behind it also listed for sale.
This cozy, cheerful cottage is confirmation that big things do come in small packages. The appeal of this property is threefold - location, charm and rentability. Conveni...
Welcome to this stunning property that boasts a natural color palette, creating a serene and peaceful ambiance throughout. The kitchen features a nice backsplash, adding ...
Welcome to Amber Acres, where charm meets convenience! This lovely property features 2-bedrooms with option to add a 3rd (see septic permit), 1-bathroom and is nestled on...
Great Opportunity For Investers Or Home Owners !! Excellent Rental History !! Charming Mid Century Home In The Heart Of Zebulon. Spacious Kitchen With New Flooring Open...
Discover the charm of this inviting 2 bedroom/2 bathroom home in Mebane. Enjoy the open concept of the living room and kitchen, complimented by two well-proportioned bedr...
HISTORY IN THE MAKING!!!! This charming Bungalow was constructed in 1918 (Per Tax records) has stood the test of times!!!!! Nestled in the Golden Belt Mfg Company area o...
This incredible investment opportunity is perfect for seasoned investors or those just starting out. The property is currently vacant, but a tenant is scheduled for April...
Attention renovators and visionaries! This 2BR 1.5, classic farmhouse is a hidden gem waiting to be polished. With its charming vintage details and original character, th...
OHHHH you'll love this one. Cozy cottage style home situated on a large lot with large deck and privacy fence. Inside you'll find an inviting central family / dining room...
Exceptionally Charming One-Level Condo in Northeast Raleigh! Perfectly located in a desirable community just steps from Starbucks and East Millbrook Middle School, this 2...
Bring back that Charm to this home on almost acre lot! Hardwood floors, Sun Porch between garage and house. Possible flag lot can be made from this .98 acre lot - call a...
Beautiful 1/2 acre lot in great location with easy access to downtown Raleigh while still providing a private wooded lot. Home needs some updating but appliances and mech...
Welcome to this stunning property with a natural color palette and new flooring throughout the home. The primary bathroom boasts good under sink storage. Step outside to ...
Attention INVESTORS and BUILDERS! Here's a great opportunity to bring your investing creativity. Single Family Home with a FULL Basement ready to be converted (ready to f...
Now taking pre-sale reservations. Have you ever imagined living in the heart of downtown, being able to walk to all its vibrant attractions, without having to worry about...
Submit an accepted offer by 2/12 and get a $2,000 seller credit that you can use towards anything you want, plus a free Ring whole home security kit. Unlock homeownership...
Introducing an exquisite property that embraces the charm of a natural color palette throughout. This stunning home offers limitless opportunities for flexible living wit...
Back On The Market! Completely updated bungalow in 2019 in trendy Durham! Beautiful finishes accent this 2BR/1BA charmer built in the 1920s. You'll love the convenient lo...
Zoned R-10 This house is in disrepair. Build a duplex and an ADU or a larger home and an ADU. Walking Distance to NC State! Lot located at the end of Burt Street. Large n...
Ranch home on almost a half an acre corner lot. Spacious deck and fenced yard with large shed.
Welcome to this beautifully updated home featuring a fully remodeled kitchen and bathroom! The spacious kitchen boasts stainless steel appliances, stunning large island, ...
Showings begin Thursday 2/22. This trendy remodeled cottage is move-in ready! New LVP flooring, new granite countertops in kitchen and baths, and new interior paint thro...
Beautifully renovated ranch home in quiet Durham neighborhood! Hop on the nearby American Tobacco Trail and take the greenway into Downtown Durham! Open living area. Fres...
LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION!!! Investor, Builder or homeowner special located in the heart of Durham and close to everything including transportation, hospitals, unive...
PERFECT STARTER HOME/INVESTMENT PROPERTY/LOVELY HOME FOR EMPTY NESTERS. 8Min to Downtown Raleigh. Less than 5 Min to every major Highway I40, I440, I540, 64 and 70. T...
Bid currently at $220,000. Upset bids must be submitted at the Wake County Court house (12th floor - Special Proceedings). Minimum upset bid $231,000 W/ 5% cert funds dep...
They say the best gifts come in small packages! 2810 Cascadilla is a unique opportunity unlike any other! Take a look at this new construction home in Downtown Durham wit...
Welcome home to this cozy beautifully remodeled 2-bed, 1-bath Ranch home minutes from Downtown Durham. This home features a new roof, new HVAC, new electrical, new plumbi...
Great investment opportunity! Over 3 acres on 501 with rental property already established. Property is surrounded by trees offering a private lot. Easy commute to Durham...
Welcome to this beautifully renovated 3-bedroom, 1-bathroom home in Mebane, NC! This charming property has undergone a complete transformation, boasting a brand-new roof,...
Welcome to your charming retreat in the heart of Durham! This delightful cottage has been given a glow-up, boasting a fresh and modern interior that's sure to captivate. ...
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...
Beautifully updated, 2 bedroom and full bathroom craftsman style home. One level home features tons of natural lighting throughout. Spacious great room and stunning kitch...
PRICE CORRECTION! Renovated and move-in ready ALL NEW: Roof, Windows, HVAC, Water Heater, Range, Cabinets, Floors, Front Porch and Back Deck, Fresh Paint. It's all done! ...
Fantastic recently renovated 2Beds, 1Bath home located in the great neighborhood of College Park. This home sits on a corner lot, just minutes from downtown Raleigh. The ...
This little light filled abode sure does shine! All buttoned up and ready to host your next chapter, most of the hard work here has already been done for you. Outside, th...
You don't want to miss out on this 2 bedroom 1 bath 917 square foot Traditional Cottage 1 mile from downtown on the American Tobacco Trail that's across the street. Updat...
You must see this totally UPDATED Ranch, close to Downtown Durham, RTP & Duke! with a cozy family room; the kitchen features GRANITE countertops,SS appliances. Great ...
Welcome to this beautifully remodeled brick ranch, conveniently situated near downtown Raleigh! This charming home seamlessly blends modern updates with classic charm, of...
Discover the epitome of urban convenience paired with the charm of modern living in this delightful brick ranch home, nestled on a generous .36-acre lot. Offering the per...
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...
Welcome home! Whether you are looking for your permanent residence or an investment property this is perfect. 2 bedrooms with 2 full bathrooms this is all you will need. ...
Nestled atop a hill in the heart of Duke Park, this 2-bedroom ranch-style home offers a secluded retreat with a wooded lot, ensuring privacy and a picturesque view of the...
Back to ACTIVE after Buyer financing fell through. A stunning rehab in the heart of Durham. Walking distance or short bike ride to Downtown Durham, Duke, DPAC, and DB...
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 ...
PRICE REDUCED. This outstanding home is in walking distance to the downtown area. Ranch home with three bedrooms and one full bathroom. The home has been updated and the...
Have you been looking for an updated home to move into? Look no further because you've found it! With updates that include a new roof, new HVAC, new windows, new light fi...
Here is your opportunity to live in Longview Park! This quiet and peaceful community is sought after and well known for its up-and-coming location and amenities. Move...
Welcome to 417 East End Avenue close to downtown Durham. New Roof, New Vinyl Siding, New Deck, New Flooring, New HVAC, New Duct Work, New Wiring, ,New Plumbing, New prim...
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.
Open House Sunday 3/17 - 12:00-2:00 You have got to come see this move-in-ready home in downtown Raleigh! This home features vaulted ceilings, a fenced backyard for pr...
Welcome home to this adorable, fully renovated, 3 bedroom, 2 bath cottage. in West Hillsborough. All new kitchen with stainless steel appliances, new luxury vinyl plank f...
You hit the jackpot with 2104 Pelham! If you've been searching for a move-in ready home with tons of updates, today is going to be your lucky day. Featuring brand new win...
Beautiful Northgate Park Location. Abundant natural light pours in, illuminating the vintage details adorning every corner. Relax and unwind in this adorable cottage o...
Full renovation with bits of charm left over! RARE single car garage comes with this corner bungalow. All new electric, plumbing, HVAC and roof with touches of 1950's c...
Cozy 2 bedroom 1 bath Brick Ranch located inside the Beltline near Whitaker Mll Rd and Five Points Area. Large fenced in backyard and deck nestled in a quiet neighborho...
Traditional 4 bedroom 3.5 bath home w/basement in W. Burlington. Eat-in kitchen boasts granite countertops & tile floors. It's a chef's delight with ample counter space!...
The Bristol floorplan is one level living at its finest. This ranch style home offers 3 bedrooms, 3baths with the ultimate open concept floorplan. The kitchen is highligh...
Fantastic location blocks from Downtown. Updated two bed 1 bath with covered front porch, cozy back deck and big back yard! Perfect opportunity to add personal touches ...
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...
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...
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Listings provided courtesy of Triangle MLS, Inc. of NC, Internet Data Exchange Database. Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. © 2024 Triangle MLS, Inc. of North Carolina. Data last updated .