Nevada Tiny Home used as Down Payment for Bigger House
Collapse of the American Dream
Allen, a self-described “farm boy” from rural Nebraska, grew up understanding the value of hard work and self-sufficiency. His childhood in a small home instilled in him an appreciation for simple living. However, life took an unexpected turn when he faced a divorce, which made him rethink his life and the things he no longer needed or wanted. “I’m not necessarily a minimalist,” Allen says, “but that line of thought is prevalent to those who want to go tiny.”
In 2008, as the economic situation deteriorated and the company he worked for closed its doors, Allen had to move out of state for a new job. Unable to afford both his mortgage and an apartment in the new town, he was forced into a short sale. “The only people that made money off that sale were the mortgage company and the investor,” Allen recalls, leaving him with a sour taste and a determination to find a better way to live.
Building a Tiny House
Seeking a creative solution to his housing problem, Allen struck a deal with his employer to build a tiny house in an unused corner of the factory where he worked. Using each paycheck to buy materials—some new, others recycled—he began his project. This endeavor, which started as a short-term solution, turned into a multi-year labor of love. By 2013, he had completed a tiny house modeled after the Tumbleweed Elm, designed for mobility and efficiency.
In a large warehouse, Allen worked tirelessly on his tiny home. Surrounded by tools and materials, he built the structure on a trailer, allowing for portability. This home became Allen’s sanctuary, traveling with him from job to job. Despite its rough edges, the house was functional and affordable, costing just $13,000. However, like many DIY enthusiasts, Allen found that the interior was never truly finished to his satisfaction.
Trading-in his DIY Tiny Home
After years of living in his unfinished self-built tiny house, Allen decided it was time for an upgrade. Recognizing the quality and design of Tumbleweed Tiny Homes, he chose to outsource his second tiny home. Trading in his unfinished house, he discovered that Tumbleweed accepts trade-ins of unfinished tiny houses, providing an excellent opportunity for those looking to upgrade.
“This is my second tiny house,” Allen shares proudly. This time, Allen opted for a more spacious design, purchasing a Tumbleweed Elm 30′. Nearly doubling the size of his previous tiny home, this new abode boasts 230 square feet plus a sleeping loft. Living in Nevada, Allen found an ideal parking spot through generous neighbors who offered an available space complete with septic, water, and electricity. In return, Allen maintains the property while the owner is away, creating a mutually beneficial arrangement.
Allen’s DIY Tiny House
He was inspired by the Tumbleweed Elm
I upgraded just a little bit. I actually purchased this one through Tumbleweed Tiny Homes because I do like their designs.
Custom Features
Inside his new home, Allen has created a cozy living space with custom features tailored to his needs. “I knew I was going to get this size of a TV,” he explains, showcasing a large flat-screen TV perfectly fitted against the wall, with components neatly stored above and a sound bar below. His living room, which doubles as a dining area, is designed for both functionality and comfort.
Allen’s kitchen is a marvel of efficient use of space. He opted for an RV stove and a convection microwave oven, with clever storage solutions such as a slot behind the stove for knives and mason jars for dry goods. “Storage is pretty important,” Allen says, revealing his knack for organizing.
Pots and pans decorate the kitchen from above.
A slice is cut into the countertop for knife storage.
Finding Community in Nevada
The tiny home lifestyle has allowed Allen to become more self-sufficient and financially stable. “I pay $325 a month for rent, which includes two acres and a hoop house,” he shares. This arrangement has enabled him to grow his own vegetables and live a healthier, organic lifestyle. He enjoys a close-knit community with his neighbors, often exchanging produce and hosting cookouts.
The Importance of Flexibility
Allen’s new tiny house provides the flexibility he values. The loft offers a cozy sleeping area with ample headroom and windows for ventilation and natural light. For future-proofing, he has a downstairs room that can be used as a home office or guest bedroom, and he plans to install a Murphy bed if climbing the loft stairs ever becomes too difficult.
Allen’s home is equipped with modern amenities, including a twin-temp water heater that provides both hot water and radiant heating. “It’s very efficient,” Allen notes. He also emphasizes the importance of good ventilation, explaining how his Voltronic heat exchanger keeps the humidity levels perfect.
Homemade ventilation system for the mattress.
The home office doubles as a guest room.
Sharing the Tiny House Experience
Allen shares his story in an inspiring video by Tiny House Expedition, where viewers can step inside his Elm 30 Alta and discover innovative tiny house hacks. The video highlights not only Allen’s journey but also the broader tiny house movement, which emphasizes sustainable living, financial freedom, and the importance of community.
Photos courtesy of Tiny House Expedition.