The national phenomenon of tiny homes is making its mark in Routt County but with a difference. Unlike traditional tiny homes, which are built on wheels, local developers, Micro Living LLC, plan to build the first project of its kind on foundations.
Recently, the Routt County Board of Commissioners approved a conceptual plan and subdivision, which would allow six tiny homes to be built on two single-family home lots in unincorporated Milner, approximately 10 miles west of Steamboat. As a Planned Urban Development, the project would allow the county to modify the zoning. The development would include open space and be deed restricted to two designated parking spots per unit. “Basically it is the same as buying a one bedroom condo, but you have no direct neighbors, you own all four walls and have dirt for a garden,” said Michael Buccino, a local resident, owner of Micro Living and a member of the American Tiny Homes Association.
Potential buyers will have the option of two floor plans to choose from. The Cheney Creek model, priced at $180K, will offer 437 Sq. Ft. of living space while the Wolf Mountain model, priced at $165K, will have 357 Sq. Ft. of living space. Unlike tiny homes on wheels, these will offer valuable storage space in the foundation between the slab and structure.
What began as a solution to housing opportunities during an economic crisis has evolved into a new way of living. Low operating costs, minimal maintenance and a clutter-free existence are among some of the attributes, which draw homeowners.
“I field many calls per week about this project,” said Paul Weese, Broker at Colorado Group Realty, who has been taking presale inquiries for months from investors, second homeowners and first time homebuyers. “I think it is a very viable option for people to obtain a home at a reasonable price close to Steamboat,” Weese said.
If the Milner project gets a green light from planning in the next month, Buccino’s next plans are to build a four-unit development in Oak Creek with carports and no open space, plus a permanent site in Hayden for tiny homes on wheels that can connect to existing infrastructure. “Milner is the first step and everyone is looking at this as test project of what can be done,” Buccino said.
