Container homes are taking Canada by storm, and saving potential homeowners hundreds of thousands of dollars. Whether you’re looking to maximize customized home living, secure retirement plans, or help out your children with buying their first home, container homes are a valid option for almost every lifestyle.
Homes are typically one of the most expensive and daunting investments that a person can make. As of 2018, the average Canadian home costs $481,500.00, with an average size of 1,500 to 2,000 square feet. This can seem like a weighty commitment for a home that might not even completely cater to your custom design needs.
Container homes, on the other hand, are essentially massive LEGO blocks that creatives and innovative contractors have endless (and more affordable) possibilities with. Simple, cubed shipping trailers can be converted into extraordinary living spaces, kitchens, and bedrooms.
They range from 20 to 40 feet, are highly weather-resistant and were an untapped treasure for home construction and design, up until now.
Minimalists can purchase a smaller home for $35,000.00 to $80,000.00 with square footage ranging from 160 sq. ft to 800 sq. ft. Those with larger families or a more luxurious and spacious lifestyle can invest $80,000.00 – $250,000.00 for an 800 sq. ft to 2,500 sq. ft apartment. The price of your home will be slashed in half from the original brick and mortar price tag, even if you opt for all the bells and whistles.
Houses in subdivisions and even condos in big cities are designed with layouts of living spaces that are crammed together and don’t spare an inch. This is so investors and building developers can maximize profits on the property, which is the reality behind why many condos or recently developed homes tend to look the same.
The container home trend has become lucrative and is breaking the notion of conventional, cookie-cutter homes. This flexible living style is both sustainable and allows you to live in a totally remote area (a great cottage idea) or a residential area. The difference mostly lies in permits and building codes.
As your life changes with different milestones (like having kids) your spatial and design needs can change drastically. Why waste money on a mortgage or a house you might grow out of when you can simply add building blocks of container extensions? You can live in it while construction occurs, without the stress of moving, and at a friendlier price tag.
Whether your goal is a multi-level house in the heart of downtown, an extended and luxurious beach bungalow, or a small, cozy cabin in the woods, shipping containers can help you achieve that dream with ease.
There are tons of DIY resources to guide you towards purchasing your own container, but here are a few top companies in North America who offer prefabricated container homes, without all the grunt work.
