The cost of traditional housing, coupled with high mortgage rates, has led many home shoppers to look at alternative housing options that are more affordable and offer a quicker and easier path to homeownership. The ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) and tiny home movement continue to gain popularity, fueled in part by shows on HGTV and Netflix, along with media coverage about the benefits of living in these cozier homes.

As prospective home buyers look at manufactured homes, including ADUs (Accessory Dwelling Units) and even tiny homes in record numbers, here are some things you should know to help you decide if one is right for you.

Tiny homes are typically under 400 sq. ft. and are similar to traditional studio units with a bathroom, bedroom, and kitchen. These miniature homes can be ideal for single adults who don’t require much space and don’t want a lot of maintenance.

An ADU, which can be up to 800 sq. ft., will be placed on the lot of an existing single-family home. Because these stand-alone structures are slightly larger than a tiny home, they can be used as anything from a home office to multi-generational living, to an investment property that generates rental income.

Both tiny homes and ADUs offer a low-maintenance lifestyle, while larger manufactured homes offer a look, feel, and way of life more aligned with traditional site-built homes. Today’s manufactured homes may come with porches, attached garages, open floor plans, stone countertops, and many other features and amenities that give an elevated and stylish feel to the home.

If tiny homes interest you, they are well-suited for those who enjoy a minimalist lifestyle and can often be rented out, depending on your local ordinances. Because tiny homes are movable, they are a terrific option for those who may need to travel or relocate. This same benefit also makes them subject to RV (recreational vehicles) codes and taxes.

For those interested in ADUs, they offer more options for homeowners because they come in a variety of sizes and configurations, making them more customizable to your specific needs. ADUs are much more affordable than traditional housing options, and like their larger manufactured home counterparts, they are eco-friendly, built to code, and can increase your property value, while also being used as a rental for passive income.

Both tiny homes and ADUs offer home shoppers an alternative path to homeownership. These, along with larger manufactured homes, are more affordable and accessible than traditional site-built homes. All of these provide an easier, and more convenient and carefree lifestyle compared to tract homes or condominiums. They can also allow you to pursue what is more important in life than spending weekends on home and yard maintenance.

Contact us to find out how HomeQuest can help you select the perfect home for your needs.