Primary Dwellings

Building a tiny house yourself is generally cheaper than getting one built by a company, assuming you have the necessary skills, experience, and time.  Building yourself can save on labor costs, which can be significant.   Unfortunately, DIYers often find that it takes way longer than they had anticipated and can create cracks in even the strongest marriages.  

A prebuilt (prefab) on Amazon is the cheapest option and you get what you pay for. Buying a pre-built (pre-fab) tiny house does offer convenience and speed, as it can be ready in a matter of weeks or days, whereas building can take months or even years. 

If you want your home to last and want it done right so that it won't blow away (remember the 3 little pigs?) hiring a home builder (like Nanostead) is definitely the smartest choice for your investment.  

Tiny homes are legal in North Carolina, but the regulations vary by county and city. Tiny homes must adhere to local building codes, zoning laws, and other regulations. For example, some counties may classify tiny homes as RVs, which can limit their use as permanent residences. It's essential to check with local authorities to understand the specific guidelines for tiny homes in North Carolina.

The average cost of a tiny home in North Carolina can vary widely depending on the size, materials, and level of customization. Already-built tiny homes typically cost between $55,000 and $250,000, while DIY builds and prefabs can be significantly cheaper, often around $30,000 to $70,000. At Nanostead, our custom-built tiny houses range from $185,000 to $350,000. For more detailed pricing information, please refer to our pricing guide.

With proper maintenance, tiny homes can last between 30 and 50 years. The longevity of a tiny home depends on the quality of construction, materials used, and how well it is maintained. Tiny homes on foundations tend to last longer than those on wheels due to reduced wear and tear from movement.

Yes, tiny homes can have plumbing. They typically include a kitchen sink, bathroom fixtures (toilet, shower, and sink), and connections to water and sewage systems. Some tiny homes may also use alternative systems like composting toilets or greywater systems, especially if they are designed for off-grid living.

Yes, you can turn a shed into a tiny house in North Carolina, but it must comply with local building codes and zoning regulations. This includes meeting requirements for habitable space, plumbing, electrical systems, and other safety standards. It's important to check with local authorities before starting the conversion.

Financing a tiny home in North Carolina can be done through several options:

• Personal Loans: Many people use personal loans to finance their tiny homes.
• RV Loans: If the tiny home is on wheels and RVIA certified, it can be financed like an RV.
• Home Equity Loans: If you own property, you might use a home equity loan to finance the tiny home.
• Specialized Lenders: Some lenders specialize in tiny home financing and offer tailored loan products.

Yes, at Nanostead, we specialize in building custom tiny houses tailored to your needs and preferences. Contact us today to start designing your dream tiny home in North Carolina!