{
  "id": 6163612,
  "title": "I built my tiny home for under $50,000. Here are 5 things to consider before building your own.",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/07/i-built-my-tiny-home-for-under-50-000-here-are-5-things-to-consider",
  "topic": "business",
  "section": "Business",
  "published": "2026-09-07T19:27:41.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Business Insider",
    "slug": "business-insider",
    "url": "https://www.businessinsider.com/tiny-home-builder-says-to-consider-these-things-before-construction-2026-9"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Margo Fairchild constructed a tiny home in 2020, despite lacking any prior construction expertise. The 240-square-foot home cost her $43,779 to build in Virginia, a figure that exceeded her initial expectations. Fairchild's journey to build her own tiny home involved researching various sources, such as YouTube videos, homebuilding forums, and an Instagram page where she documented her progress. Architects and builders from around the world offered advice through her Instagram page, which helped her overcome challenges. However, Fairchild emphasizes several crucial factors to consider before embarking on a similar project.\n\nFirstly, Fairchild advises prospective builders to account for unexpected expenses. While the cost of building a tiny home typically ranges between $30,000 and $60,000, additional expenses like permits, utilities, and hiring professionals may not be initially considered. She recommends creating a comprehensive list of all potential costs, from materials to miscellaneous expenses, to avoid budget overruns.\n\nSecondly, Fairchild highlights the significance of understanding local building regulations. Tiny homes are governed by diverse rules depending on the state and local jurisdiction. Some locations allow tiny homes on a foundation, while others permit only tiny homes on wheels. Prospective builders must research local ordinances early on and choose the appropriate type of tiny home for their specific needs.\n\nThirdly, Fairchild stresses the importance of tailoring a tiny home to one's lifestyle. For instance, Fairchild designed her home with sufficient space for working out, considering her passion for fitness. When designing a tiny home, she advises evaluating daily activities and preferences to ensure the space caters to personal needs and desires.\n\nFourthly, Fairchild cautions against downplaying the impact of downsizing. Moving from a regular-sized home to a tiny home often necessitates parting with numerous possessions. She recommends evaluating the cubic footage of belongings to accurately estimate how much can be accommodated in a tiny home. Some items might require storage solutions outside the main home.\n\nLastly, Fairchild underscores the necessity of addressing the challenges of living in close quarters with others. If building a tiny home with a partner or family, it is essential to ensure a harmonious coexistence. She advises fostering a strong relationship and learning effective communication and patience to maintain a comfortable living environment.",
  "summary": "Before building a tiny home, HGTV host Margo Fairchild says one of the biggest things to consider is if a small space will truly fit your lifestyle.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}