Mobile tiny houses have become increasingly popular in recent years as people look for more affordable and sustainable ways of living. These tiny homes are often built on trailers, allowing them to be moved from one location to another with ease.

In this guide, we will explore what mobile tiny houses are, the benefits of living in one, factors to consider before buying one, types of mobile tiny houses, top companies offering them in Europe, buying and financing options, maintenance and eco-friendly features.

By the end of this guide, you will have all the information you need to decide whether a mobile tiny house is right for you.

What are mobile tiny houses?

Mobile tiny houses are small homes built on trailers, allowing them to be moved from one location to another. These homes are usually less than 10 square metres in size and are designed to be compact, efficient and functional. They are often built prioritising eco-friendly materials, and are designed with sustainability in mind.

Mobile tiny houses can be used as primary residences, vacation homes, guest houses, or even as mobile offices. They are particularly popular among those who want to downsize and live a minimalist lifestyle.

Benefits of living in a tiny house on wheels

There are many benefits to living in a tiny house on wheels. One of the main advantages is affordability. These homes are much cheaper than traditional homes, making them an attractive option for those on a budget. They are also much easier to maintain, as there is less space to clean and fewer things to repair.

Another benefit of living in a tiny house on wheels is that they are environmentally friendly. They are often built using sustainable materials and are designed to be energy-efficient. This means that they use less energy and produce less waste than traditional homes.

Living in a tiny house on wheels also allows you to have more freedom and flexibility. You can move your home to different locations, allowing you to explore new places and live closer to nature.

Factors to consider before buying a mobile tiny house

Before buying a mobile tiny house, there are several factors you need to consider. The first thing to think about is how you will use your tiny house. Will it be your primary residence, a vacation home, or a guest house? This will help you determine what size and features you need.

Another factor to consider is the cost. While mobile tiny houses are generally cheaper than traditional homes, they can still be a significant investment. You need to factor in the cost of the trailer, materials, and labour. You also need to consider ongoing costs such as insurance, maintenance, and utilities.

You also need to think about where you will park your tiny house. Many cities and towns have zoning laws that restrict where you can park a tiny house. It’s important to do your research and make sure you have a place to park your home before you buy it.

Types of mobile tiny houses – prefab and custom

You can build your own mobile tiny house or a buy a turnkey solution. There are two main types of mobile tiny houses on the market – prefab and custom. Prefab tiny houses are pre-built and can be delivered to your location. These homes are usually cheaper and faster to build than custom homes. They are also more standardized, meaning that you have fewer options for customization.

Custom tiny houses, on the other hand, are built to your specifications. You can choose the design, materials, and features that you want. These homes are more expensive and take longer to build than prefab homes. However, they offer more flexibility and allow you to create a home that is tailored to your needs.

Companies offering mobile tiny houses in Europe and their costs

There are a growing number of companies offering mobile tiny houses in Europe. Here are some of the top companies and their costs:

1. Tiny Eco Homes UK

Tiny Eco Homes UK say that 90% of their mobile tiny houses are entirely unique and custom-built. You’ll get a unique, stunning, and road-legal mobile tiny house, but you won’t be able to simply visit and tow one away. They offer a range of designs and sizes, with prices starting at around £25,000.

2. Baluchon in France

Baluchon is a French company that offers a range of tiny homes on wheels. Their homes are designed to be eco-friendly and energy-efficient. They are stunning, combining colours and materials in finely crafted way. Prices start at around €45,000.

3. Pinehaus in Poland

Pinehaus offer beautiful pine-cladded luxurious spaces on wheels. They are one of a growing number of mobile tiny house manufacturers in Poland. They invite customers to visit their factory, including to see models that are already complete and ready to tow away.

4. Tiny Houses Scotland

Tiny Houses Scotland specialises in custom-built tiny homes, and have experience of building to Passive House standard. They emphasise sustainable materials and offer a range of designs. Prices start at around £44,000. They’re custom-build operation is well suited to engage them with a mobile tiny home project.

Buying a mobile tiny house – where to start

If you’re interested in buying a mobile tiny house, there are several places you can start your search. One option is to visit tiny house festivals and events. These events allow you to see different types of tiny homes and talk to builders and owners.

Another option is to search online. There are many websites that specialise in tiny houses, such as Tiny House Listings and Tiny House Index. These websites allow you to browse different homes and connect with builders and sellers.

It’s also important to do your research and read reviews of different builders and companies. This will help you find a reputable builder who can create a high-quality home.

Financing options for mobile tiny houses

Financing a mobile tiny house can be challenging, as they are not considered traditional homes. However, there are several options available. One option is to take out a personal loan. This can be a good option if you have good credit and can afford the monthly payments.

Another option is to take out a recreational vehicle (RV) loan. Many tiny houses are built on trailers, which means they can be considered RVs. RV loans usually have lower interest rates than personal loans, making them a more affordable option.

You can also consider crowdfunding or taking out a home equity loan. It’s important to explore all of your options and choose the one that makes the most sense for your financial situation.

Maintenance and care for your mobile tiny house

Mobile tiny houses require regular maintenance and care to keep them in good condition. It’s important to keep the trailer and tires in good shape and to regularly inspect the home for leaks and other issues.

You also need to keep the home clean and well-ventilated to prevent mold and other problems. Regular cleaning and maintenance of the plumbing and electrical systems is also important.

Eco-friendly features of mobile tiny houses

Many mobile tiny houses are designed to be eco-friendly. They use sustainable materials and are designed to be energy-efficient. Some homes use solar panels or wind turbines to generate electricity. Others use composting toilets and greywater systems to reduce water usage.

Mobile tiny houses also encourage a minimalist lifestyle, which can reduce your carbon footprint. By living in a smaller space, you use less energy and produce less waste.

Conclusion – Is a mobile tiny house right for you?

Mobile tiny houses offer many benefits, including affordability, sustainability, and flexibility. However, they are not for everyone. Before buying a mobile tiny house, it’s important to consider your lifestyle, budget, and needs, and where you will park it. It might be that you opt for a tiny house without wheels.

If tiny houses just feel too cramped for your situation, you may find that a compact home such as a container home suddenly feels luxuriously spacious.

If you’re interested in buying a mobile tiny house, start by researching different companies and builders. In line with tiny house philosophy, manufacturers are usually keen to invite visitors to see how they work, helping you to fully engage and understand what they have to offer. Tiny houses as a concept are synonymous with quality, value and self-awareness. Consider attending tiny house festivals and events to see different types of homes and talk to owners and builders.