Introducing the Tiny House Movement

Photo courtesy of Tumbleweed Tiny House Company

The average size of a home in the United States today is about 2,400 square feet. Back in 1978 the average size was 1,780 square feet.  Way back in the 50’s, the average size was 1150 square feet. Now think with me for a minute. 60 years ago the average family was 8 strong and today the average family is 4.  Why would we need to increase the size of our homes?  We have stopped having so many children, but we’ve doubled the size of our homes.  Sure, we might make more money these days, but bet and believe much of the “huge house” mentality is for a feeling of prestige or status.  There is something alluring about having a huge, beautiful home.
I’m not saying there is anything wrong with having a large home- if you have ample money to take care of it.  Experts state that 76% of Americans are living paycheck to paycheck and much of the reason is because of high mortgages, rent, and utility payments.  This means that 3 out of 4 people you meet are somewhat stressed out about their financial picture. They might not say anything, but the mound of debt is heavy on their backs.
Introducing the Small House Movement- a movement that is gaining more and more attention since the financial crisis back in 2007 and 2008. Men and women (and even some teenagers) are joining this movement because they don’t want to be knee deep in a mortgage loan for 30 years, they want to reduce their carbon footprint on the Earth, and they want to have more time and freedom to enjoy their family and life.
Did you know that the average American family is over $15,000 in consumer debt?  Mortgage debt averages around $146,000 and student loan averages equal $31,000.  With so much weight on the shoulders of Americans, the need for simplifying and downsizing is great.  In fact, off the grid movements are popping up all over.
Small (or tiny) homes are usually less than 400 square feet. In fact, some are less than 100 square feet and built on trailers to get past building code issues.  You might be surprised to hear how many people find this appealing, but the movement is growing. When half your income is going to a mortgage company and you’re fighting with your spouse about how much money he or she spent on school clothes for the kids, downsizing and letting go of so much stuff you don’t really need sounds pretty awesome.
Tiny houses are not for everyone- this is understood, but it is a viable alternative for those who want to simplify, enjoy a minimalistic lifestyle, reduce their debt, and be more self-sufficient.
Socrates said many years ago:
“The secret of happiness, you see, is not found in seeking more, but in developing the capacity to enjoy less.”
The tiny house movement will continue to grow as it gains exposure.  Small, intentional living communities are already utilizing such and creative artisans are designing their own unique tiny homes all over the world.
It’s actually quite amazing and exciting.