Bayside Realty Consultants
Kim Clark, Bayside Realty ConsultantsPhone: (508) 685-6660
Email: kim@teamcapecod.com

What Are Shipping Container Homes?

by Kim Clark 11/03/2021

For several years now, tiny homes have been popping up on Pinterest and across social media as unique and inviting living spaces. However, most recently, the tiny home trend has evolved into an even more eco-friendly option - shipping container homes.

Shipping container homes are residential dwellings that are created out of empty shipping containers that are no longer being used. Some people create their house out of just one shipping container, while others stack, pile and lay several shipping containers out in order to design a larger custom floor plan.

Wondering if this eco-living trend is right for you? Here's everything you need to know about shipping container homes:

What are Shipping Container Homes?

Shipping container homes are houses that are created out of shipping containers that are no longer being used to transport goods and products across the world. Shipping containers are often stacked high on freighter ships and on train beds, and they take all the things we need on a daily basis from point A to point B. However, they can only be used so long for transportation, and often end up sitting unused for years. Now, in order to give these old products new life and to prevent the need for further manufacturing, people are transforming these containers into houses where they can live, work and play.

Where Can You Live in a Shipping Container Home?

If you are interested in purchasing and renovating a shipping container home, then you should start looking for a place that will allow you to reside in one of these properties. Some of the states that allow shipping container homes include Texas, Oregon, Alaska and California. If you are wondering if shipping container homes are allowed in your community, reach out to your local government officials for more information and guidance.

How Much Does a Shipping Container Home Cost?

Similar to a traditional single-family home, the cost of a shipping container home can vary significantly. A container home that is made out of only one shipping container and features minimal upgrades may cost as little as $10,000, while a more luxurious home with an elaborate design can cost up to $200,000.

Why Should You Consider a Shipping Container Home?

There are many benefits that you may want to consider if you are thinking about buying a shipping container home, such as:

      • Shipping container homes are a budget-friendly option for those who want to stick to a certain price point. It's easy to predict the cost of your home and plan accordingly.
    • Shipping container homes can easily be transported, given the fact that a vast network to move these containers from place to place already exists.
    • Shipping container homes are an eco-friendly option. When you buy one of these homes, you are giving new life to a shipping container that would otherwise be left to decay. In addition, you are opting for a smaller living space that will require fewer resources to operate on a daily basis.

    On the surface, a shipping container home may seem like it has limited options. After all, shipping containers come in standard sizes, and they do not have the flexibility that other prefabricated or modular homes have. However, if you are willing to think outside the box, you may find that this is the perfect sustainable living solution that you have been searching for.

About the Author
Author

Kim Clark

Kim Clark started her real estate career in 1999 and shortly thereafter obtained her Broker’s license in 2002. After working for larger, corporate offices, she realized that her business and clients needed a more personalized and flexible firm. She founded Bayside Realty Consultants in 2007 offering a space of unity, collaboration and encouragement for agents and their clients. Kim specializes in the unique Cape Cod market comprised of primary, vacation and investment properties.

She says "It is great to be a part of helping make a homeowner's dreams come true". Clients and their individual needs can make things very exciting! Kimberly's enthusiasm is contagious and it has been a real asset in her successful career. She says, "Never quit. Just do what you like and the rest just falls into place." She is certified in several real estate designations including GRI, CBR, CRS, e-Certified, and a certified trainer.