What a $33K Texas Tiny Home Taught a Family About Planning for the Long Term

A Texas couple built a 400-square-foot tiny home for the mother on their two-acre property, finishing in eight weeks for about $33,000 after DIY work and hiring only the shell and concrete foundation. They saved roughly $30,000 versus quotes of $63,000–$97,000. Lessons include raising the foundation or carefully choosing placement to prevent flood risk and preserve sunset views, considering a larger footprint to improve long-term accessibility, planning for privacy if the space might become a rental, and staying patient and flexible with budget and timing. The tiny home withstood a January cold snap and remains a cozy space for their mom.