Twila, a retiree residing in The Woodlands, Texas, opted for an alternative and cost-effective retirement plan by embracing the lifestyle of living in a tailor-made tiny home.
Upon reaching the age of 62 and a half, Twila and her husband decided to downsize from their conventional 3-bedroom house to a tiny home in East Tennessee. Their motivation was to lead a more straightforward life with minimal home maintenance, and now they are living out their dream.
Their journey began when they discovered Incredible Tiny Homes on YouTube, prompting them to sketch out their new home on paper. After making the necessary payments, they witnessed their 10×8 customized home, featuring special windows and lighting, come to life within just four months. The total cost of their tiny home, situated in ‘The Forest’ community, one of four communities offered by Incredible Tiny Homes, was approximately $56,000.
Monthly living expenses in ‘The Forest’ amount to $225, covering the lot rental along with water and sewer services. Additional costs such as electricity and internet contribute an extra $125 per month.
This budget-friendly lifestyle allows them to reside near the Smoky Mountains, fulfilling Twila’s long-standing dream. Their tiny home boasts a 10×8 freedom-style design with a copper metal roof and skirting. Opting for flat log siding, they applied polyurethane for a glossy finish and wood protection.
Featuring a custom 4×4 window in the living area and a mini-split air conditioning unit to save space, their tiny home also includes a small shed for additional kitchen storage and a chest freezer for Twila’s baking hobby. A deck with chairs and a fire pit, as well as a matching 6×6 storage shed, complete their outdoor space.
Embracing the tiny home lifestyle, they spend quality time outdoors, reconnecting with nature and the essentials of life. Inside, the living area serves both as an entertainment hub and a business center, featuring a mini Cube fireplace for warmth and ambiance.
The well-equipped kitchen, complete with a stove and oven, accommodates both spouses comfortably, showcasing Twila’s baking passion. The bathroom boasts a 36-inch shower, a standard flushing toilet, and a tankless water heater for instant hot water. Additionally, a stackable washer and dryer contribute to efficient clothes drying.
The loft, serving as their bedroom, offers enough headroom for comfortable sitting. Although Twila expresses a desire for a second dormer to enhance light and space, she remains content with their snug sleeping area.
Overall, living in a tiny home has streamlined their lives, minimizing maintenance tasks and allowing them to savor each day to the fullest.
