Alternative Homes for an Interesting Lifestyle
Source: Unsplash | Daniil Silantev
There are many different reasons people are starting to choose less mainstream types of homes. It’s no secret that people trying to buy their first home nowadays are much older than previous generations due to economic circumstances. Growing up during financial troubles has led a generation of people to learn how to compromise and create the best situation for themselves with what they have. In some cases, these non-traditional lifestyles are more rewarding and exciting than perhaps more predicted and steady ones. Here are a few ideas on alternative residences for people who want to experience something new.
Tiny Houses
Although the love of spacious rooms and high ceilings hasn’t suddenly disappeared, there are more people out there now who are willing to sacrifice an abundance of space for adventure and convenience. Tiny homes are exactly what their name suggests; miniature houses that can be built on land or on wheels to be towed between locations, similar to a trailer. These spaces are often hyper-efficient in order to utilize the space as best as possible, with clever solutions you wouldn’t expect to find in an ordinary house. Living in a tiny home allows you to become more intentional with your buying habits since you will soon notice an overflow of possessions in such a small space. They are more affordable than regular houses, eco-friendlier, and are best suited to people without children.
Vans
Van life is another movement that appears to be growing thanks to increasing house prices. People are buying RVs or secondhand vans and converting them into luxury living spaces. Gutting the interior lets you redesign the vehicle to suit your needs. Make sure to choose a size that gives you as much space as you need, as well as something you are able to drive. Larger motorhomes are more like regular houses in that they can have separate rooms, but they require greater skill to drive than a smaller van. This type of home is perfect for people who enjoy the nomadic lifestyle and want to see more of the world. Here are a few things to consider before committing to van life:
- Where will you have your mail delivered?
- Are you confident driving to new locations and moving if the area feels unsafe?
- Do you have the materials and skills to renovate a van into a suitable living space?
Self-Builds
Building your own house from scratch has a similar result to buying a house already built, but with a far greater sense of accomplishment and an end product tailored precisely to your needs. This choice is not as cost-effective as some of the others on this list but is a great option for people who have saved money to buy a plot of land and the necessary resources. Just don’t forget the important details like plumbing, heating, and electrical. Head online and search “HVAC contractors near me” to find the right person to assist in the building of your own house.
Boats
Living on a boat is an exciting and unique way of life. Some people stay at marinas while others live in static floating homes that are the same as regular houses but on water, not land. Houseboats for canals and rivers are another great option. Boats come in a wide range of sizes, shapes and purposes so if you do some research you’re sure to find something that suits your needs. Keep in mind that there are rules and regulations around the different bodies of water your boat can be situated on. Different places have different laws regarding permits and the length of stay at any given location, so you may be required to move your home every few weeks in order to avoid a fine. Living on a boat is perfect for someone who loves adventure but at a peaceful pace.
Camping
Committing to life as a full-time camper is one of the most daring alternative living styles there is. Whether on a designated campsite or somewhere in the wilderness, living in a tent can be equal parts frightening and rewarding. Learn vital survival skills such as:
- How to build a fire with limited materials
- How to find clean water
- How to identify safe and dangerous plants
- How to read a map and use a compass – you can’t always rely on digital technology in the middle of nowhere
Living outdoors and being able to explore the world around you is fantastic for people who want to save their money for having more adventures rather than investing in a traditional house.
For those that are looking for a different way of living, the above ideas are a fantastic place to start discovering the alternative options that are available to you. However you want to live there is sure to be something out there for you, so there is nothing stopping you from enjoying your new lifestyle.
- Are you confident driving to new locations and moving if the area feels unsafe?
- Do you have the materials and skills to renovate a van into a suitable living space?
Self-Builds
Building your own house from scratch has a similar result to buying a house already built, but with a far greater sense of accomplishment and an end product tailored precisely to your needs. This choice is not as cost-effective as some of the others on this list but is a great option for people who have saved money to buy a plot of land and the necessary resources. Just don’t forget the important details like plumbing, heating, and electrical. Head online and search “HVAC contractors near me” to find the right person to assist in the building of your own house.
Boats
Living on a boat is an exciting and unique way of life. Some people stay at marinas while others live in static floating homes that are the same as regular houses but on water, not land. Houseboats for canals and rivers are another great option. Boats come in a wide range of sizes, shapes and purposes so if you do some research you’re sure to find something that suits your needs. Keep in mind that there are rules and regulations around the different bodies of water your boat can be situated on. Different places have different laws regarding permits and the length of stay at any given location, so you may be required to move your home every few weeks in order to avoid a fine. Living on a boat is perfect for someone who loves adventure but at a peaceful pace.
Camping
Committing to life as a full-time camper is one of the most daring alternative living styles there is. Whether on a designated campsite or somewhere in the wilderness, living in a tent can be equal parts frightening and rewarding. Learn vital survival skills such as:
- How to build a fire with limited materials
- How to find clean water
- How to identify safe and dangerous plants
- How to read a map and use a compass – you can’t always rely on digital technology in the middle of nowhere
Living outdoors and being able to explore the world around you is fantastic for people who want to save their money for having more adventures rather than investing in a traditional house.
For those that are looking for a different way of living, the above ideas are a fantastic place to start discovering the alternative options that are available to you. However you want to live there is sure to be something out there for you, so there is nothing stopping you from enjoying your new lifestyle.