tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-60810225620026264602024-03-12T23:51:19.978-07:00Simple Living In AmericaThis is a site dedicated to my quest to live simply and figuring out along the way what really "matters". Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03203001730903029131noreply@blogger.comBlogger14125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6081022562002626460.post-79135154734087583182015-07-16T09:15:00.000-07:002015-07-16T09:15:26.601-07:00Cheap Pizza NightOne way to avoid a lot of work, when yo are just too tired and want something easy..<br />
<br />
Go to Papa Murphys and buy a $5 pizza to cook at home.<br />
<br />
We got a large, tossed on produce that needed to be consumed before it went bad. A bag of kale and spinach and chard from Costco needed to be consumed. We also had a jar of artichoke hearts and a red bell pepper.<br />
<br />
Great meal, took under 25 minutes to make in the oven.<br />
<br />
Was better than any frozen pizza at TJs or SafewayAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03203001730903029131noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6081022562002626460.post-15645248389082628742015-05-20T12:15:00.000-07:002015-05-20T21:28:00.899-07:00Realism: It took 2 years to not justify ADUAs you read this, realize I would seriously consider this an ADU build if I had an extra 15 grand around. To keep this at 15k or less, I must make some concessions.<br />
<br />
It became clear to us that the city will require changes that really are cost prohibitive, and changes that are not even quite sensible for our needs.<br />
<br />
In some cases it is better to just add a bath room. Our garage is already fully insulated and has electric.<br />
<br />
My main concern is a place for mom to stay in the summer time to see her grandson. That is it. Besides a work out room, and place we can do crafts with the boy. We need it for that, but all the requirements for a room used maybe a month and a half per year? Nope.<br />
<br />
It is not just SDC's. There is plenty to deal with. Much I am not even mentioning here. ADU is the wrong product.<br />
<br />
They wanted a water heater. Why? our home has a great gas one with lots of capacity. With only 200 sq ft, every bit of space counts.. I don't particularly desire an electric one (it will be all electric) out there when I have capacity and one day will want a tankless to power the home and garage bath room. Energy savings should count. We are simply recirculating the water heater and adding plumbing for the sink and toilet.<br />
<br />
Another sub box. No thanks. I have both circuits already ran out there, plenty to power the basic needs of a bath and microwave with coffee pot set up. Seeing I won't have a stove or heating wired, it seems like this is over kill too.<br />
<br />
A firewall. I cannot even get to the wall adjacent to the chain link fence. Not an option. Plus the expense makes it a non happenin. To add fuel to that frustration, the city had some people telling me every wall needed one.. which makes zero sense.. be nice if everyone knew what was needed and not just made up what they thought was needed? It made me nervous because there is only so much room we have to budget for this, I cannot have sudden surprises due to lack of professionalism/knowledge on construction requirements. The home adjacent on our property line is over 25 ft from the garage I wanted to make an ADU. No chance of a fire impacting them in any way.<br />
* IF I could build a firewall or meet the requirements without taking the cedar shake off and squeeze into the fence line, from perhaps the inside(?) I would do it. Under the circumstances, unless a TV series does a documentary and helps pay a little bit of the project ( I was hoping we would be approached), the additional work will make it a few grand more than we can spend. I would seek equity line of credit, but not an option. Our home is just barely worth above what we paid in 2006.<br />
<br />
I like that I could just put a wall heater. Nothing wired in. Like an Envi. I don't care for forced air and Kadett was the only affordable option. No way I was putting in a heat pump for so little space that was not even constantly occupied. Also I would need to up the home's 100 amp house panel to do it anyway (more expense).<br />
<br />
So, a bath room. No 2nd sink in the bath room, just a work sink outside of it. I guess I could also sign a covenant, but I just don't care if there is 2 sinks. No stove, because I cannot have a stove line if it is not an ADU. That is fine. Even the little 21" stove I bought takes up valuable relestate in 200 sq ft.<br />
<br />
It took me 2 years to get real about this and decide I want to keep it a garage with a sink and toilet/shower combo. But I am glad I did not dive into it because I would have just had a partial project not finished sitting there.<br />
<br />
We also figured if we add a French Door that opens nice and wide to allow a car to park in there, and the bath is tight enough against the opposite wall in the corner, it could be a car parking spot for my classic GTI. We have no drive way. I think this could decrease the value of the home if there is zero parking aside from the street. I bike all the time, but want the flexibility of having a garage anyway.. and that was the final deal breaker to just add a bath and make a work space.<br />
<br />
Oh, and the cherry on the top.. they might increase our taxes if we add an ADU. NO Bueno. We are here for life as long as it is affordable. I cannot guarantee we want to rent all the time, I want full flexibility and cost savings on every level. Another $600 a year for a little 200 sq ft place with a special name just does not Jive with me.<br />
<br />
Things to consider folks. It is not all "here you go, make it happen". Once you begin the venture from desk to desk with the city planning dept, get opposite info, wrong info, etc... it makes it daunting and stressful. I just don't need that in my life. My visit will be "I want a bath room in my garage, the sink will be on the outside wall of it with a place for my microwave". Done. Place for mom a few weeks a year and extra play space for the kiddo, a place I can DJ, park some bikes or my car... much better than the ADU IMHO.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03203001730903029131noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6081022562002626460.post-69870197994013820042014-02-19T13:56:00.001-08:002014-03-03T12:30:03.285-08:00Tiny Home Project in SE Portland: I have a better budget to work with, now I need community help<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/6vQBJgZiRlg?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6pSDrV6CqRTKZ2auRB-6JdSkXI1tJdJlcZ5Ssl2AUXcsqfhqhA7k-8ogNHgCedNvkTx5CGXCpIclFCrH0AATArBSYl2vCPK1-NoTN5k6NgVc_h_JUexwi_jHbk0hmif7zaEJgCW1vJJg/s1600/ADU_Graham.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a></div>
The latest information on how much I have managed to pull together and the assistance I am seeking can be read on <a href="http://tinyhomes.com/revising-my-tiny-home-budget/">tinyhomes.com </a>. I will be sharing a lot more regarding this project in the future. Any builders and designers looking to contribute, please contact me at my email address or leave a note below. Seriously, drywall, mud and tape, framing, adding a firewall, siding, installing bathroom or kitchen fixtures.. anything could help!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03203001730903029131noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6081022562002626460.post-77585386237436655252014-01-27T14:30:00.002-08:002014-02-19T18:23:47.383-08:00The Vanagon - My Unhealthy Obsession & the Questionable Pricing of an Aircooled Model<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-NHAiXrEI10FJOtPIzZ8KjgVxPYbEdX-1wVFHt5qZ-Des7hx1pw_SVmVsJ-Cb0rz46m-Oh7RZGv3eadbxNzYjkeTuX2ePmX7PhhH1Vq6iZXqj0itr5_Cp81DBhrsWWbDCAoIVNfsmyN0/s1600/Screenshot+2014-01-27+14.24.37.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-NHAiXrEI10FJOtPIzZ8KjgVxPYbEdX-1wVFHt5qZ-Des7hx1pw_SVmVsJ-Cb0rz46m-Oh7RZGv3eadbxNzYjkeTuX2ePmX7PhhH1Vq6iZXqj0itr5_Cp81DBhrsWWbDCAoIVNfsmyN0/s1600/Screenshot+2014-01-27+14.24.37.png" height="125" width="200" /></a></div>
I will admit have had wanted a Vanagon Westy for many years now. There. I said it. Even knowing they can be a RPITA.<br />
<br />
Once upon a time I was an insane VW watercooled fanatic. Well, car fanatic in general. I STILL have a special place in the car cabaret for anything auto, car discussion related, particularly rare and obscure or under appreciated cars.. as well as ones one can live in, or camp in.. or be a version of a Tiny Home.<br />
<br />
A Vanagon is a mixed bag. On one hand, they are a Swiss Army Knife. Packaged VERY cleverly. No vehicle this small (at least available here in the USA) is so well thought out in terms of using every inch of space for sleeping and hanging out.<br />
<br />
They are also well finished. German Craftmanship.<br />
<br />
The view of the road is something special. Ever since the original Bus they have had this wide view of the the road. Unlike an RV, you can see well on every end. There really is no blind spot to be found.<br />
<br />
The stoves work well. The fridge. The pop top is roomy enough for two. The rear seat folds to a decent 2 person bed. The tables are great to eat at after making a meal or playing cards. There is storage galore.<br />
<br />
They have a decent handling package with an almost mid engine type feel on the road. Many considered the Vanagon the Porche 911 of mini vans. They also have a tight turning circle for the type of utilitarian vehicle they are<br />
<br />
The romance ends there.<br />
<br />
Like the more venerable predessor, the classic VW Bus, the Vanagon is SLOW. Like as in good luck exceeding 25 MPH up a big grade hill SLOW.<br />
ALL of them. Some just worse than others. The Diesel (recently I found one that bid as high as 9k on eBay with 53k!!) is about the sloewest vehicle that ever entered the American market. under 55 HP from a 1.6 liter motor towing along over 3k lbs. INSANELY - SLOW.<br />
<br />
The 1.9 water-cooled motor from 1983-1985 is barely adequate. Having trouble keeping up with modern traffic, but at least within some level of ability to get you there without cussing too much. Same withe 2.1 liter to follow from 1986-1992. VW created a clever ass package with a motor that was simply ASS. You would THINK after 12 years of making the Vanagon VW would have created a better power plant? Right?<br />
<br />
The air cooled model is only ever so slightly better than the pathetically slow Diesel. I mean as in over 20 seconds 0-60 instead of 30+ seconds. They both drive 25 mph up a hill.<br />
<br />
Here is one on eBay with 40k miles original. On the plus side the facility that obviously bought this looking to flip it for serious cash, did the right things. Change the seals, gas tank, and anything that a 30 year old barely used vehicle will need to be reasonably reliable.<br />
<br />
But lets get real. The bid is currently $11,600 with 5 hours to go. The Vanagon was NEVER a truly reliable vehicle no matter what miles are on it. ALL of them have issues. Air Cooled as has valve issues, Diesel can barely move, 1.9 & 2,1 liter Wasserboxer head gasket leaking mess of a motor.<br />
<br />
Would YOU pay that much for a vehicle that, while it might have a decent amount of repairs over it's ownership, could be bought in well taken care of higher mileage condition, for around 3 grand if you looked hard enough?<br />
<br />
At least with a later model that's not air cooled one could look into investing in a Subaru 2.2 liter conversion. Good motor with that great interior and handling...<br />
but the Air-cooled leaves one kind of stuck. Stuck with one of the most painfully slow vehicles ever made. The amount of modifications to put in another water-cooled motor would make it very cost inefficient to consider. So yeah, you are stuck.<br />
<br />
I for one have come to the conclusion that a more reliable, and even comfier Toyota RV (ANY year, 20R, 22R, V6) is a better bet with some level of power to move for less $, and perhaps most importantly, a great deal more reliability. Granted, the cool factor will be at a loss, and it will be less easy to park and maneuver.<br />
<br />
$11,600 for a 1980 Air Cooled VW Vanagon????? Get a low mileage V6 Toyota Motorhome in perfect condition. You'll enjoy it more, enjoy camping in it more, and fix it A LOT less! Hell, I just found a V6 with 89k for $6800. Even if it needed a complete engine over haul it would be a much more reliable choice.<br />
<br />
<br />
I have gotten to the point where, while an RV would be lovely.. I am finding it less stressful to pack up my touring bicycle I built out of a 1993 steel framed Specialized Rock Hopper, sleep in an REI Half Dome Tent I bought on sale for $100 including the Foot Print.... YES..that is much more my speed.<br />
<a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/Volkswagen-BusVanagon-WESTFALIA-/261377124174">http://www.ebay.com/itm/Volkswagen-BusVanagon-WESTFALIA-/261377124174 </a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03203001730903029131noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6081022562002626460.post-25927101633304160412013-12-20T13:08:00.002-08:002013-12-20T13:08:21.077-08:00We are having a little BOY<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9DdBLK8IMOLsjFhmKBOR6Edws3cxt8fR1jL1LU5PGJQIn3wYTK_41sKoy8oA8bxHWgEzCTuUPkIsRn4uvjxfuUNrvdf81tEVKkYT9JCMa6qSrfMISpsOqbX6MeqhA_WW_s37QPaREyts/s1600/babay.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9DdBLK8IMOLsjFhmKBOR6Edws3cxt8fR1jL1LU5PGJQIn3wYTK_41sKoy8oA8bxHWgEzCTuUPkIsRn4uvjxfuUNrvdf81tEVKkYT9JCMa6qSrfMISpsOqbX6MeqhA_WW_s37QPaREyts/s320/babay.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Early Visit. 9.5 weeks</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_OjyKprh5Bk1QvED2m4LyO2Sa1jgJUYiEtSc3eF-pTDAyzhxk34YHkqclZCS_Esm3K4yQLmOyEFlOLqXOkJk7XrbrOoihlHK8emvsmwUHv5-m0BTtYzlgIjZDfJUSVVzkFxJy553c6cg/s1600/18+weeks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_OjyKprh5Bk1QvED2m4LyO2Sa1jgJUYiEtSc3eF-pTDAyzhxk34YHkqclZCS_Esm3K4yQLmOyEFlOLqXOkJk7XrbrOoihlHK8emvsmwUHv5-m0BTtYzlgIjZDfJUSVVzkFxJy553c6cg/s320/18+weeks.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">18 Weeks and a BOY!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: right;">
Went in for a 2nd ultrasound. Baby was sticking tongue out, kicking, waving. </div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
Much more REAL than expected. </div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
I was kind of quiet about my desire to have a little boy. I already have 5 chickens, Dot Dog,</div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
and my Wife... we are covered for Estrogen in this home. </div>
<br />
It is funny, almost "knew". As soon as the Doctor began showing what was happening inside, I just knew "That's a Dude". A minute after my inside thoughts, the doctor let us know "It's a Boy!".<br />
<br />
Now we can plan. I can look out for the Toys I grew up with for us to play with (old Tonka trucks and Fisherprice, that's my Living Vicariously Through choices). I am currently looking for bikes for kids, seeking that trailer for getting around town... researching best bike and baby to kid options. <br />
<br />
Stoked. Scared. But, Stoked.<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03203001730903029131noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6081022562002626460.post-76205991197673253232013-12-20T12:51:00.001-08:002013-12-20T12:51:42.624-08:00My Recent Commuting and all around Utility Bike: I am a Wald basket Believer.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXBUsnvm591IymByUDMw2zun5oEU3tK7UDqzwK2m6B3UdObHUpyGXaZ2dL2GJ2gUjoEsn0DSNtXhyphenhyphennBzW3MyYsfaJwnqYBHW3C_5NW5EspgdF__UwMqdlTncgjwi25e2aN0cv9AVeVfPg/s1600/bridgestonebreakfastbasket.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXBUsnvm591IymByUDMw2zun5oEU3tK7UDqzwK2m6B3UdObHUpyGXaZ2dL2GJ2gUjoEsn0DSNtXhyphenhyphennBzW3MyYsfaJwnqYBHW3C_5NW5EspgdF__UwMqdlTncgjwi25e2aN0cv9AVeVfPg/s1600/bridgestonebreakfastbasket.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHdjsFwVk2Efem4c5cNxhtSbblfrxsEJ2hGpFAaCtWLgQ7szyUcpFYRGGHJwRl0dLZxRFN4AvH_cxq2W0N11TFsr_pVIroXk_KCg6lv19fYrj4YGWHEePUtsKQr3a8BCQNzRA9uPvUNYs/s1600/bridgestonebikefenders.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHdjsFwVk2Efem4c5cNxhtSbblfrxsEJ2hGpFAaCtWLgQ7szyUcpFYRGGHJwRl0dLZxRFN4AvH_cxq2W0N11TFsr_pVIroXk_KCg6lv19fYrj4YGWHEePUtsKQr3a8BCQNzRA9uPvUNYs/s1600/bridgestonebikefenders.jpg" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioWCY_6GTgRKp47Gv9Xms3D776Qyl9yArOzsFGWebjUIv9Qb0SmqgGNPe8bwdOyg_Tf70A_oVAmRDnoNXx3HRDkSZ0yv167eINSJ4kZ4QGVAlT4V-Vo2K6N0xVOkQ20E3JtqbWuRFYN-Y/s1600/bridgestonebasket.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioWCY_6GTgRKp47Gv9Xms3D776Qyl9yArOzsFGWebjUIv9Qb0SmqgGNPe8bwdOyg_Tf70A_oVAmRDnoNXx3HRDkSZ0yv167eINSJ4kZ4QGVAlT4V-Vo2K6N0xVOkQ20E3JtqbWuRFYN-Y/s1600/bridgestonebasket.jpg" /></a><br />
It began with fenders, some swept back bars and then discovered it needed a higher rise to the stem (I added an adjustable quill per lower right pic). Decided to go with some fat Bontrager Hard Case 2.0 Tires. Found a rear rack on a bike someone trashed. Found the Wald basket in a trash bin as well. <br />
<br />
Let me just say that I LOVE my front basket. I can hold bins of food, cake, bungee down all kinds of stuff that sometimes was awkward in my rear panniers. Plus, unlike my panniers (which are VERY handy in their own right, situationally), I can leave without remembering to bring them. I can leave the bike without having to bring my Orlieb bags inside a grocery store.<br />
<br />
Steel frame classic Bridgestone MB-3, fat tires, fenders, swooped bars, and a Wald BIG basket? Comfy, Tough, Utilitarian, and FTW!<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi67K4zLmCdbRBCe1RmfuraT1iRyffo0zNb3JXdquqNmZjM_tX8TK9a0o4XdLf9r-2rHw8YWSZ3P5jtLF4b43nSf7MscL7Vq9k3AOhhnHYanhdXYnkqam8a_OTsAd0lGPYsH5amLC7Km2Y/s1600/bridgestonemezza.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi67K4zLmCdbRBCe1RmfuraT1iRyffo0zNb3JXdquqNmZjM_tX8TK9a0o4XdLf9r-2rHw8YWSZ3P5jtLF4b43nSf7MscL7Vq9k3AOhhnHYanhdXYnkqam8a_OTsAd0lGPYsH5amLC7Km2Y/s1600/bridgestonemezza.jpg" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03203001730903029131noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6081022562002626460.post-16515124349608222002013-11-03T10:07:00.001-08:002013-11-03T10:07:25.566-08:00ADU Loan Option & Electrical CostsThe current situation is that we do not have enough equity in the home to pull funds. The closing costs ate the additional equity.<br />
<br />
So I looked into a home equity line of credit. I am allowed as much as 15k. The way I look at it, at 4.5% interest, and a $350 fee to receive this loan... I could avoid cleaning my entire 10 k of personal savings out, or at least pay for the build in it's entirety if it ends up being over 20k.<br />
<br />
In the end, it is about $2500 in interest if we pay back in 2 years. To have a rental in the end? Likely worth it. That DOES mean I will need to have a monthly renter consistently to pull this off, using every dime in rent to pay down the loan. Which does not seem unreachable. If it takes longer, that just means paying more in interest.<br />
<br />
My biggest hurdle has been electrical. The bids have been over $5000 (many as much as $6800). We are now exploring a friend or a friend handling the electrical for about $4k, or handling demo of current wiring and another highly recommended local contractor adding the new 200 amp service in the home, sub box, digging, wiring, etc. Leaving me with a $5000-5500 bill.<br />
<br />
Seeing I have a strict budget as it is, I might have to go with the friend of a friend from Tualitin (he is still bonded.. important!) for $4500 or less, doing the same work. He requires that I buy the supplies needed and pay him the labor. To save $1000 that could be used for framing an interior, or adding a front shed style porch... it is likely worth picking up the goods and having him do the work, over hiring a local contractor. He is pulling permits on his own/like the local contractor would have, and I appreciate that a lot.<br />
<br />
I am waiting to say Yay to the loan until I have confirmed the costs that a main contractor quoted, meeting with a city rep at my home to get the low down on requirements with my architect present, and pulling the permits with that architect once he puts together the site map and engineering.<br />
<br />
That's the latest!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03203001730903029131noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6081022562002626460.post-76201388736834852192013-07-22T12:55:00.001-07:002013-07-22T12:55:41.406-07:00Quick Update on the ADU: Home Refinance helping fund the ADU, Water Heater Thoughts. I have been gathering bids. I think I found my plumber.<br />
<br />
The one change I would like to make is sharing the current relatively new gas water heater in our main house with the ADU. I see little reason to put an electric one in the limited space. It would be more efficient to share our 50 gallon tank as well. We are only 2 people, and when/if we have a child... it will still be only 3 people in our home that has 1 bathroom. <br />
<br />
Still not sure where the closet will be in the ADU.<br />
<br />
I have 3 contractors working out bids. I figure who ever gets to me with a solid # and a start date will be my guy.<br />
<br />
Our home was appraised. We are getting a (much) lower interest loan though a Credit Union since we had a bad experience with B of A. So happy that all our hard work making our home spiffy paid off. We were under water since we purchased as the market fell in late 2006. Our home is 20k above what we paid..<br />
<br />
Meaning? I can more effectively finance the ADU. It looks like the 4k I needed to get this rolling will be available. At 2.75% interest rolled into the loan.. there could not be a more affordable means of getting this done! It will still be a tight budget (12k, plus 4k.. =16k total to build this 227 square foot home, including permits)... but should be doable. If worst did come to worst, I got approval for 3k on a 7.9% interest credit card. I will leave that for incidentals if they come up in the build. Then I will need to find a renter ASAP when it is built (hopefully within 3 months!) to pay that back since I really have no discretionary income, just enough to pay my bills. Need the rent money to pay back that loan to avoid big interest costs.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03203001730903029131noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6081022562002626460.post-2202928992010785242013-06-04T11:24:00.003-07:002013-06-04T11:24:53.409-07:00Firmly Decided on a 1 Story, Bizarre City Fee, and The Final 1 Story Layout<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjICoOUrdQKPSLAB_QIjOtk_asdvZNdKsIldVpdSXCjLWd4EF9y3zsXqIStRRGV_Hgp7YvNsj2nl5_ROSxGnSv-77-Ug9gJly4tiHrQBoVcjWqL8wG8O-L16Lq90w6P-CIVIG1WeIbbtkc/s1600/ADU_Final_1stDraft.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjICoOUrdQKPSLAB_QIjOtk_asdvZNdKsIldVpdSXCjLWd4EF9y3zsXqIStRRGV_Hgp7YvNsj2nl5_ROSxGnSv-77-Ug9gJly4tiHrQBoVcjWqL8wG8O-L16Lq90w6P-CIVIG1WeIbbtkc/s400/ADU_Final_1stDraft.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
I have 3 contractors in the mix working out bids. I will see which one makes sense both from a financial point of view, and from a bigger picture "best ideas, best examples or work, best references" point of view. <div>
<br /></div>
<div>
After hammering the heck out of this. I have decided a 1 Story is best. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The trouble with the 2 story concept is that I will need to most certainly do this thing on credit. The city will likely impose a Land Use Review that would cost upwards $1500+. They will also double the general scope Permit fee of $550 to over $1000. Adding square feet is not as simple as the one city official at 4th and Hall shared. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
There would also be the the additional 5 grand to add the 2nd Story. The extra materials (windows, flooring, lighting, heating, etc). IT. ADDS. UP. FAST. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Another thing that helped me make the decision was the fact that even though the 1 story quotes are within my budget, I would not have anything for incidentals. I might need to borrow 2-3 grand if something comes up. Some odd fee from the city, or a plumbing or electrical thing, or there is something we just can't do without for the build. I don't want to end up deep in debt due to an incidental. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
KISS Principle it BE. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Speaking in terms of some odd fee from the city.. wait it til you hear THIS one. Sit down for this. It's a entertaining "WTH??"</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
So, I called the water bureau. One plumbing guy said we might not have even capacity for all the faucets. We added up the chart and it appears I would be off by 2 more than the current waterline could support. The city said it was a simple $180 piece added to allow more fixtures. That's all I was told about 1 year ago when I investigated the fees. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
This time when I called? The rep told me that I would ALSO be required to sign a form that essentially states that I agree to add a waterline to the ADU if it EVER became legal to sell it, AND I chose to sell it, and DID sell it. $550 Smackers. </div>
<div>
??? </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Okay. So. Let me get this straight... I would be "required" to pay a fee to sign a form stating that if something that is totally not legal right now was to BECOME legal, that I would be willing to send a specific waterline unassociated with my home, before I Sold it. "Pay for something in case something becomes something, even though it may never become something, and I want to do that something if it becomes okay to ever do that something in the first place". Why would I also pay for simply agreeing to something that is not something... (I need to just stop thinking, it is going to brake my mind). </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
What?. My brain hurts thinking of this one. Not only is that a total "WTH??" but the place is 5 feet from my home. 228 square feet. Has absolutely ZERO property line of it's own. The ADU is facing my Alley Way. To top it off, it is also part of our only carport. It is technically connected by the roof to the roof of the car port ! ! !</div>
<div>
This will never be a place I can sell. I never want to. Never would. It is just a rental that my aging relatives could also one day live in, or kid while he/she is attending school. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
So I will most certainly do everything I can to get out of this fee that I can't afford really, anyway, and it is not relevant to my build- AT. ALL. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
To end this post. Here is the design my friend came up with. I really like it. For one, it creates a nice kitchen layout with a place for a small fold out table on the East wall. The bath will be a simple stand up shower, preferably 36" to avoid being too tight to stand in comfortably. I might just have shelves high up and a medicine cabinet for storage. The shared plumbing wall was was lead this design to be. I really wanted to avoid possible freezing pipes. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We are still debating on where to put a closet. Might just buy something from IKEA in the end, or, allow the person moving in to fill in their own "Vision". </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Any ideas?</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03203001730903029131noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6081022562002626460.post-32618700027404487432013-02-19T08:57:00.000-08:002013-02-19T09:02:51.850-08:00Reality Check: Most Work Will Need To Be Contracted OUT<div>
<br /></div>
Reality Check. Remember that whole** I have 6 grand and can't exceed it** thing was discussed? Well.. my friend has awesome intentions, and I think he would help til the bitter end working on everything but the plumbing, windows, and most electrical as discussed.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
However, him and I (almost) *never* have schedules that mesh well. I'm not handy.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
So... I had a reality check. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Seeing we have worked a total of 3 days, over the course of 2 months and accomplished only a wee bit of work.. I think it is time to consider a professional. At this rate, this will take us 3 years to do! I could be collecting rent and paying back a relatively small loan to complete it through an indie contractor. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I had 5 bids. 2 were so out of hand that I did not even bother negotiating with the firms. I am sure they do incredible work, and use the most eco friendly materials, would insulate up the Wazoo, etc... but I don't have the cash opportunity to get the best of the best. I need clean, thoughtful, rentable, AND affordable enough. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
1 contractor was not to crazy off the charts, but in order to be sort of within my budget, "I" would have had to deal with all city permitting. I found that a deal breaker because I want the contractor up to snuff with the city. </div>
<div>
Another one was as affordable as the one I think I am going with, but very wishy washy about knowing the permit process, and his bid was incomplete. The one I chose was ready to deal with all the permitting without even a glitch. His Bid was pretty thorough. He has done it prior, and is prepared to create that relationship. Plus, I just got a good feeling about him. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Let's get real. It is either going to end up being a 220 sq ft Micro Studio, or, a 440 sq ft 2 story. Even up to code, just based on the foot print alone... it WILL be efficient. A 440 sq ft place done up to code will be more energy efficient than the most LEED certified 1600 sq ft home known to man. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
So, I found a contractor that offered a bid based on using conventional pink insulation, carpet ( I am going to ask for the carpet squares over the middle of the road carpet he mentioned in my bid), floating floor flooring in the bath and kitchen, middle of the road cupboards, hollow doors, electric 30 gallon water heater (I heard so so stuff about the on demand electric ones anyway, and I think adding a gas line will be complicated/more expensive), Kadett heating upstairs and downstairs (I may look into Mini Split, if there is -$1200 options, or PACT Hotel Style HP), Low E windows (as apposed to more expensive double or triple pane options, granted, I will look into affordable 2 double pane) etc. Totally serviceable and livable. To meet my price point, my friend with limited time and I will paint in/out, might put in the floors, and handle just about all demo needs, removing the garage door, etc. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I need to ask him about adding an upstairs deck over the front entry/concrete patch. I think it would add so much!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I will need to take out a bit of credit to do this. I figured a standard credit card is likely the best option. I will exhaust 95% of my savings, then take out another up-to 10 grand (if needed) at 7.9% interest. If I choose a 1 story, we should be able to get it done for cash. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Upon completion of the 2 story ADU I can get a tenant on a 1 year lease and pay down that credit card with the rent likely in under 2 years. This will = about $700 interest. Not bad! A house... for the price of a Mini Cooper or Subaru Forester, and the credit portion is only that of a Hyundai Accent? </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Yes. Please. </div>
<div>
Sounds like my money will work better for me under this scenario than at 1.5% interest in a CD. Right?</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03203001730903029131noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6081022562002626460.post-74955652611742506972013-02-16T10:11:00.000-08:002013-02-16T10:11:27.634-08:00We have started Demo! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlahL7W4PCPTmozqF_BydeoDiBLqzQU2iYDI1RonuR7IIMFrncCQFnLmy47tGFA3mlsqswLzjheaaOpQ9K5y1eakPl8yZ7i7O0f5J261g_CoDUHOoFkyPXjJ_qbt9csrhq8OIXUfNap5I/s1600/R13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlahL7W4PCPTmozqF_BydeoDiBLqzQU2iYDI1RonuR7IIMFrncCQFnLmy47tGFA3mlsqswLzjheaaOpQ9K5y1eakPl8yZ7i7O0f5J261g_CoDUHOoFkyPXjJ_qbt9csrhq8OIXUfNap5I/s320/R13.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
We have begun the demo! Exciting stuff. 2 days of taking off peg board, removing and selling the air compressor that was in the ceiling. Hey... I made $200 that can be used toward the ADU!<br />
<br />
There is R-13 in the walls. I am assuming it could be filled with additional Batt insulation to boost the rating to R-21. But I think it is likely best to go with R-21 from the get go. Perhaps the R-13 could be re-purposed and sold for a low price to someone on Craigslist?<br />
<br />
The studs at 2X4. They need to be 2X6 to meet the space necessary for R-21. I heard about people staggering in some way to make it more insulating? Or, add another board on top of the 2X4's to create the right size?<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03203001730903029131noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6081022562002626460.post-37069833964428780502012-12-28T23:33:00.001-08:002012-12-28T23:39:46.375-08:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbYg0GKJ7Fx3ZXAbfRmgsHQK06eHp3Rl3HrjVgIrY9d1DL_tS2MHSHkX5sVi5IhL1j53QfvpLqivZTz_S-rFS5NTu7MWUGHSK-Uh6YYARZIoubTjncUECJcwO1JR0in_pSAOZgjeD7o14/s1600/ADU_Graham.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="492" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbYg0GKJ7Fx3ZXAbfRmgsHQK06eHp3Rl3HrjVgIrY9d1DL_tS2MHSHkX5sVi5IhL1j53QfvpLqivZTz_S-rFS5NTu7MWUGHSK-Uh6YYARZIoubTjncUECJcwO1JR0in_pSAOZgjeD7o14/s640/ADU_Graham.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKogoqDrhwgvrdsRi3wUHVsJ0mK4UhBOUvU802KJ1Rr5sR0mO26aDn_oR5373gu1uv29WJj9HeB9wHpmLfIOFcGVRuJOvgdT3HdR3DacJqcHkcak1HICwLjehZCOOkA1fA-UgkzhtTAfI/s1600/adu_conceptual_screenshot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKogoqDrhwgvrdsRi3wUHVsJ0mK4UhBOUvU802KJ1Rr5sR0mO26aDn_oR5373gu1uv29WJj9HeB9wHpmLfIOFcGVRuJOvgdT3HdR3DacJqcHkcak1HICwLjehZCOOkA1fA-UgkzhtTAfI/s640/adu_conceptual_screenshot.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Top right is my favorite floor plan so far. Original reason for wanting to work with the back door was because it is already there anyway, I thought it could be an outside storage. Now I am thinking it would be better to use the entire area inside, maybe make it some kind of clear window for some sunlight?Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03203001730903029131noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6081022562002626460.post-8866412090480105682012-12-28T22:21:00.000-08:002012-12-28T22:21:48.495-08:00Our ADU - Converting a 200 Sq Ft Garage into a Home<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/6vQBJgZiRlg?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
For 2 years I have been contemplating how to make this happen.<br />
<br />
I even created a Vision Video of my dream Portland Tiny Home. (as attached)<br />
<br />
Finally, we are just going to go head first and figure it out along the way.<br />
<br />
I will share with you the journey. Seek advice and guidance from the online and local community. Likely see about a Barn Raising, invite folks to help make this a reality.<br />
<br />
I am very lucky to have a close friend that shares a passion to see this through. I provided him my nice garage cabinets ((that I will have no use for)) in return for his help with creating this.<br />
<br />
I realized that the chances are I won't be able to hire someone to build this place. My job is pay check to pay check. I have a $6000 total budget.<br />
<br />
To achieve this goal of not exceeding $6000 for everything necessary, to make this a turn key place with a kitchen, bath, and living area,...I plan to use as much repurposed or free/donated materials as humanly possible.<br />
<br />
So far I have a 24" double steel sink coming.<br />
2 white over head cupboards.<br />
I might have some vinyl flooring for the bath room that a friend has rolled up. I may also add 3 feet by 5 feet of it in front of the kitchen area by the living room. A pedestal sink is said to likely be available from a neighbor as well.<br />
Plenty of Oak moldings from another friend that I will need to pick up in Sacramento on a future road trip.<br />
<br />
What I need to find:<br />
32" shower enclosure<br />
Medicine Cabinet<br />
Towel Holders<br />
Counter for the kitchen<br />
Various faucets for the bath and kitchen<br />
1 double pane window for the area where the garage will go.<br />
1 double pane window in the bath area.<br />
A door for the garage door area, including locks, deadbolt, frame. Seen these at the Rebuilding Center for $150 ish complete.<br />
28" Stove (used for $100 or less, or new for $300)<br />
Flooring for the remaining living area. (The Whole place is just over 200 Sq Ft, I need little flooring)<br />
Window Coverings<br />
Drywall for throughout the unit (might be able to reuse some of the bits removed)<br />
<br />
<br />
It goes without saying I need to find the stuff above for free, or very close to it.<br />
<br />
<br />
What I think I need to buy new. and likely should:<br />
35 gallon electric water heater. $250 range likely.<br />
Low flow toilet, seen these at big box stores for $125. Maybe Portland can reimburse/Energy Trust?<br />
LED canned lights in various areas, I know this will likely hit $300 for the lights and hardware.<br />
Solar Tubes for the ceiling (it needs light, our home blocks the South facing sun). Hopefully used, but I hear Costco has a decent price for them.<br />
An electric radiant heating source for the wall that plugs in. Heard of one's that are pretty efficient for $165.<br />
Small, if not a mini college style fridge. $265.<br />
Bathroom fan on a Timer, about $100<br />
<br />
<br />
Visiting the city to find out more details about creating our ADU revealed that the total costs would be under $500 for permits. Not a deal breaker. Now, had the original System Development Charges (SDC's) been a piece of the pie to be a legal ADU, this project would likely simply not happen, at least until I won the lottery or acquired a high paying job.<br />
Those charges were $10,000 in fees to get the proper permits. No wonder 80% of ADU's were done illegally until these fees were waved. Last I heard only 30% are not legally built now. Likely the city makes more by charging less. If no one files for a permit that means no revenue.<br />
<br />
The piece of mind that will come from doing this legally is well worth the $500. My one concern has been that they will spring some odd, unexpected fee, that would put this to a grinding halt. But I need to not worry so much!, Right? (insert panic here). Unless you know of something I should be aware of? Some local guys in the hardware stores got pretty Huffy about dealing with the city, and frankly, scared the heck out of me. Held me back until I spent an afternoon at 4th and Hall, and on the phone with the permit lady.<br />
<br />
Two fees additional, came up as possibilities. One is some kind of additional line for the plumbing to be able to add another sink or two. This part was about $150. I might not even need it. It is related to having more than a certain number of faucets in the home.<br />
<br />
The other was to request a variance. For some reason, I need to add a Fire Wall to the Eastern wall next to my neighbor's home. The set back is about 2 feet closer to his home than would allow avoiding a Firewall. This fee could be $260. It would allow me to not take the outside cedar shake off when building a simple firewall (a major unnecessary additional expense, and a PITA) Not sure if it will need to be a 1 or 2 hr wall, but I will find out soon enough.<br />
<br />
So as long as some odd ball fee that they were not transparent about comes up, I should be able to keep permit fees below $1000. Believe me. <i>I went to every department I could </i>to ask about what fees could be incurred. That will be tight on my budget, no doubt at all, but won't stop this from happening. Will there be any permit fees for plumbing, sewer, or adding an electrical box? I think that was part of that $500 general fee dealio.<br />
<br />
Budgetting Wise:<br />
$2000 on new needs (water heater, toilet, lighting, solar tubes in the living and bath, heater, fridge)<br />
$1000 Permits and Fees Related<br />
$1000 for a plumber to add plumbing from the main line to the bath area, hardware, and connect to sewer. We can dig the massive trench to keep costs down. I found a possible inexpensive plumber.<br />
$650 Electric Box (there is electrical in the unit, just need to move some plugs and add the sub box)<br />
$300 for an electrician to add the box, maybe assist us a bit, we will handle the rest of the electrical.<br />
$300 for any other insulation needs in the roof and wall (hope to find some repurposed/unused).<br />
$300 2 Pocket Doors<br />
$400 Misc electrical hardware, plumbing pipes, paint, locks, door knobs, wall needs. <br />
<br />
= $6000-$6500 Range<br />
<br />
Needing to buy windows and or a stove new would easily push my budget to $6500+. Add a new shower enclosure and I would be set back enough to just make this take a bit longer to do than the course of a year that I set as a goal. But still... not a deal breaker by any account.<br />
<br />
If anyone has <i>anything</i> they can offer to help us create this living space, I would be extremely grateful.<br />
<br />
Physical help from folks who have had some building experience would also be a HUGE asset. Especially (obviously) one's that have created an ADU, Tiny Home, or has a plumbing/electrical back ground. I will feed folks that are part of the barn raising. <br />
<br />
Thanks for any advice or help!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03203001730903029131noreply@blogger.com0United States SE Portland OR42.5530802889558 -121.992187517.031045788955797 -163.3007815 68.0751147889558 -80.6835935tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6081022562002626460.post-53926655007313643132012-08-09T12:56:00.000-07:002012-08-09T16:48:09.302-07:00Tiny Home Living - More Community Based<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkMoccJScyh5nn187GDJPQOmvTaaJ1hv95x1Nmj-g_tz7omM_sy67IjTc-fF43lGQkYGMilQdE0nftkDJ_89GpisaPXtZ8oMzlXGJO5zzkfOqEM8S1IPww8YY-Evv1BVn686WSB6qjKkc/s1600/9500mobilehome.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="79" width="106" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkMoccJScyh5nn187GDJPQOmvTaaJ1hv95x1Nmj-g_tz7omM_sy67IjTc-fF43lGQkYGMilQdE0nftkDJ_89GpisaPXtZ8oMzlXGJO5zzkfOqEM8S1IPww8YY-Evv1BVn686WSB6qjKkc/s320/9500mobilehome.jpeg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkagaxbzSicekp3Vprfvx-R5QxM7kZlG9w2SnwSMpgZtgtwRjHqhYwbLjzVXZ7VqmXPra-WS7pLVrwEPq2ToQs7gQlt8-FM9UitUxJssLY7rFGUsgsr8ppgPnvaIaReKlsnyoGri1rxzk/s1600/tinyhomeonland.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="88" width="141" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkagaxbzSicekp3Vprfvx-R5QxM7kZlG9w2SnwSMpgZtgtwRjHqhYwbLjzVXZ7VqmXPra-WS7pLVrwEPq2ToQs7gQlt8-FM9UitUxJssLY7rFGUsgsr8ppgPnvaIaReKlsnyoGri1rxzk/s320/tinyhomeonland.jpeg" /></a></div>
One downside to the tiny house movement for me would be the need to find land. Often that seems to = <i>away from daily needs</i>, stuff one can walk or bike to in 20 minutes or less.
Part of simple and sustainably living for me is the access to daily needs without needing a car.
Getting exercise, talking to my neighbors, meeting new people, walking my dog to the library to pick up a book, biking to the stores, etc.
Not to mention access to busses and light rail.
Having to pay for gas, registration, maintenance, insurance, repairs... I am trying to avoid that lifestyle. I lived it in Northern CA and never want to again! Got that monkey mostly off my back with my current situation. The car essentially gets started every week to keep the seals in good shape for 10 min and is used maybe 1 day a month. Insurance is an on-call as needed deal, mostly a car on storage status and $35 every 6 months in fees.
Often I look at local mobile home parks. There is a stigma it appears about mobile homes but in all reality I think they are both cute and often have well designed floor plans. Most importantly, they could mean access at a decent/<a href="http://www.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://images.craigslist.org/5G65K95M23I33p33H7c6p4d6f10ae09ae1d53.jpg&imgrefurl=http://mapliv.com/homes/property.php%3Fid%3D223617%26faddr%3DSE%2B197th%2BAve%2BDamascus%2BOR%2B97089&usg=__IhlbQSSJh0tQR67-7BqI8OxWyYQ=&h=450&w=600&sz=40&hl=en&start=1&zoom=1&tbnid=u5_0HryHNNjG3M:&tbnh=101&tbnw=135&ei=yAgkUI3zDcrSigL_jYHABQ&um=1&itbs=1">affordable price</a>.
My dream? Owning a mobile home park in city limits (access to everything one needs within a walk), with a center gathering area that has a rec area and kitchen (potlucks!), a large dedicated gardening/community garden area including bee hives and chickens, laundry facility, bike parking facility, and on a bus line. Affordable homes in a community that is not just for yuppies (I have seen some sustainable developments in town... <a href="http://www.oregonlive.com/portland/index.ssf/2011/02/co-housing_community_could_spr.html">$350k+ price tag</a>!!)
People talk a lot about buying land and putting a tiny home on it. Sounds okay in terms of having land to likely add a large plantation but the downside of having to drive often many miles just to get basic supplies or interact with a community, that is not a reasonable trade off for me. I want people around and humans are supposed to be with other humans. I also like the idea of maintaining our garden with others.
Lets keep in mind something else. Often, the Tiny Homes are purchased from a builder at more than 35 grand. Often <a href="http://www.tumbleweedhouses.com/products/weebee">100 sq ft</a>. A well taken care of mobile home with 2 bedrooms and plenty of living space can be had in the city limits of Portland for 5-$6000. A land fee of $350 a month and access to daily needs often on foot, no more car fees or at a minimum.
Do you find the trade off of placing your tiny home outside city limits worth being far removed from community and human interaction?
One argument could be finding land, often with no road access, is inexpensive. The cost of gas and car ownership is off set by the inexpensive living that comes with owning land outright. Could be the case in some scenarios. Granted, much of that land is likely in places that I could not see myself living (middle America, conservative areas, etc).Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03203001730903029131noreply@blogger.com0