Ask the Builder: Segment 1 – Custom Trailer

Why we build our own custom trailer:

“It is not the beauty of a building you should look at; it’s the construction of the foundation that will stand the test of time” David Allan Coe

In our first ask the builder segment Jesse discusses the following features and other information that sets our custom trailers apart from the competitors. Whether we are building your tiny home, or you are building your own, starting with the correct trailer is essential for a good build.

Custom Trailer features:

Front crank jack

Electric trailer brakes

Breakaway switch

Safety chains

Propane bracket

Stabilizer Jacks

Heavy duty tie downs

6,7, & 8k axles

LED lights

Stay tuned for our next Ask the Builder: Segment 2- Framing. Coming soon!

Learning to let go is one of the biggest obstacles to downsizing. Deciding what should stay and what should go is hard!  We are drowning in our clutter wondering why we are feeling stressed, exhausted, and overwhelmed.

Taking an inventory of your possessions and prioritizing them are major steps in downsizing your life.  Downsizing is emotional, all those memories and attachments are hard to let go of. If you really take inventory of what you need. Ask yourself some key questions.  You can let go and be free of possessions.  Here are some useful tips to get the process started.

When you are considering an item ask yourself the following questions:

• How often do I use this? If you have not touched it in 6 months and it is not a seasonal item, then remove it from your life.
• Would you pay to replace it? If it was lost, stolen, or destroyed would you pay to replace the item?
• Are you saving it for someone else? Family heirloom you want to pass down? What are you waiting for?  You could give the item and experience them enjoying it.

Now that you have these questions in mind pick a room and set up three piles.  Toss. Keep. Maybe. Be mindful of the “maybe” pile, if it starts getting bigger than the other piles, remove it and give yourself only two options.  You should also consider a donation pile. In most cases, you can call local thrift stores and ask if they come and pick up donations. Consider holding a garage sale, offering items on craigslist or on eBay.  By tackling one room at a time you maintain focus and have a sense of accomplishment.

Consider asking for help from children or relatives. If you have children most of the stuff is probably related to them anyway, so why not get them involved. One of the biggest obstacles is sentimental objects. If you are keeping things for your kids, ask them if they want them, or better yet give them to them now if possible.  If you are someone who has kept every school project, baby outfit, girl scout uniform ask yourself if you are keeping it for you or them?  Consider taking a picture of the item and keeping it instead. It is the memories you are holding on to, not the actual item.

Do not agonize over the process.  Pour yourself some wine, set a timer and just begin.  Take breaks and keep your time blocks manageable, 2 hours or less.  Embrace what is truly valuable to you. Make every possession a conscious choice in your life. Believe it or not, you will start to feel lighter and freer as you let go.

Downsizing is a chore, but once the work is done you will have a sense of accomplishment and pride in your space.  Moving forward, remember to ask yourself the following before adding anything new:

• Will this add value?
• Does it bring me peace, joy, or purpose?

What are you waiting for?  Start your downsizing your life now.

Downsizing Reminder tips:

1. Involve relatives
2. Give away now
3. One space at a time
4. Use a timer
5. Keep, toss, maybe or donation piles
6. Garage sales, craigslist or eBay items

 

This blog post was inspired by Downsizing Tips: How to ease the Move to a Smaller Home.

 

Thinking of buying a Tiny Idahome? Designing your tiny home is the easy part. We will work with you to decide what design options will best suit your needs. Before the design process begins you may need to consider loan options. It is important to be prepared if you are applying for an RV or personal loan to make your dream a reality.

• Prepare for a 20% down payment
• Check your credit score, aim for a score between 700-650

Knowing the requirements before applying for the RV loan will make it a good experience. Consider your current bank, credit union, or check out personal loan options.  Keep in mind that RV loans are for recreation vehicles and most institutions do not consider them full-time housing. If this is the case, you may want to consider a personal loan for your purchase.

Your credit score will determine whether you qualify for a 15% down payment or if you will need the standard 20% down. You may still qualify with a 650-credit score, but lenders may require 30% down.

Look at your debt-to-income ratio to ensure you can make the required monthly payments. Your debt-to-income ratio should be under 35 to get approval.  Paying down existing credit card debt before you apply will increase your odds of approval.

Another thing to consider is where you will park your tiny home. Do some research on local zoning restrictions in your area. Tiny Idahomes are RV certified and can be parked in RV parks legally. All other locations will depend on your local zoning codes. Check out park fees to get a total picture of your tiny home costs.

After securing your loan, contact us to start the design process of your new Tiny Idahome. Check out our website for more information regarding models, ideas, or tips for your future Tiny Idahome.