_What do youthink of Ellen's home? Do you have any Advice for her about her home?_ *Affordable Shed Homes At Home Depot For Less Than 20k: **th-cam.com/video/sDkYMT6p280/w-d-xo.html*
I brought one and I love it. I also went all electric but I have it connected a propane generator. I would glue down wooden boards and use (home defense) from lowes, the termites hate it. Spray all over area last 10 to 11 months. Replace wood if you can then spray it all over the wood then paint. I had this problem. So far it's working. Just keep up with spraying trouble areas within 10 to 12 months.
I have some advice for the insurance situation. Being that it it a tiny home, just about any needed repair would be substantially less than a larger traditional home, right? So, instead of fussing with traditional insurance companies, open a savings account at a bank and make payments to it like you would to an insurance company. Never touch that account unless it would be for something that you would otherwise turn into your insurance. The advantages to this method is that ALL money you contribute would be available to you, there would be no deductible, and YOU act as the insurance adjuster, meaning YOU pick what is covered, who can make the repairs, and to what extent the repairs are made. Just think of a payment amount you are comfortable making per month, then religiously make that payment. An added bonus is once you meet a balance that covers total replacement cost for the building and the contents, you can stop making your "insurance payments" and still remain fully "covered."
That’s what I keep hearing about the ppl interviewed for their tiny homes.. “Thankgod I had family to move the home” “Thank goodness my dad is a carpenter,and owns a construction business” “Thank goodness my uncle is a general contractor” “Thank goodness my family had a few acres to gives us,and we just plug into their electric/water/waste systems..etc..seems like these ppl have all the luck. I want to meet a family that didn’t have all that “luck”, and how they managed.
@@maureenjossick429 I might have to make a video in the future for younger people with little savings and zero networking that did not get all kinds of help. I actually went off grid wit farm animals and well and wood stove and barn all built by me mostly salvaged and it's not none of these glamorous looking videos. Everything is rigged and cheap but efficient. 2 yead process to get to what I envisioned having to wait on deals or finding free stuff and salvaging wood.
If you can afford it get two of these, maybe one a bit smaller for the bed and bath. Make it L shaped and build a covered deck in the L with a door for outside access. Just an idea for others wanting to do something like this.
That's a wonderful idea. I could see a screened in porch-type area including part of the top for shade and sun. Would be nice for a little pond surrounded by some self-sufficient plants (succulents might work well) with seating. Early mornings and evenings would be great outside. Or forgot the pond and do covered screened porch with nice, comfortable seating, grill, table and chairs. Would be lovely and added living space. Then bedroom on ground level and loft/s for storage. If lofts were set of for storage, I would use an electrical set up for easy up and down to put things in and take things out of storage.
As for termites, Put flashing on the top of the cement blocks with the flashing several inches larger than the top of the block. Bend the top of the flashing downwards. When the termites come up the blocks and meet the flashing, they go back down and do not get to the wood. No poison needed. Blessings
No wood touches the ground; water rots the bottom wood and seeps up into it several inches. Look at the bottom outside of any wooden building, snow and rain, even watering the grass will ruin the wood and the stain/color. LUCK!
I am 65 and retired. As a healthcare provider I can tell you the thought of her going up and down that ladder as she gets older is fairly dangerous. The two causes of injuries to women in retirement that we saw the most we're from tripping over hoses and climbing ladders. It's actually why I stopped doing my own painting which I loved. Otherwise I think the layout is adorable
@@JAMES-sz5du that's exactly what I was thinking. Then you could use that loft for grandkids. Or if there isn't enough room on that wall then perhaps that couch could be a pull out couch
I am 59 and I stumbled out of bed. I hit the corner on the side table and it hurt. Then I saw blood all over and dripping from my face. I cut open on the brow bone. I know why they cut boxer's eyes now,, it's to let the blood out so they can see. I fell 2 days later face first on concrete. That loft and ladder are a death trap for me.
@@JAMES-sz5du while I think a tiny home would be fine, my retirement home is a one-bedroom with an open layout and a loft for guests. But it has stairs to the loft. It's less than 2000 square feet. And because I live in Florida it is block constructed. I don't think I'd want to be here in a tiny home with the weather that we can get. 🏝🌀🌪
I am in a shed to home. I am nearly 78 y/o and my home is fully paid for. It was constructed by the Amish and is very sound. I am on my son's property so he added the home to his insurance. I have water and electricity. I do have to use a composting toilet (yuk) because there was no way to hook into my son's septic without great expense. I have decorated with the theme of a mountain or lakeside cabin. I love it! Gramma Candy
So cute and her son letting her live on the land is a plus! Only thing I would change would be putting the bedroom on bottom floor, that ladder to loft will be harder and more dangerous for older folks.
Plus, if needing to go to the bathroom in the middle of the night, would have to navigate down the back up half asleep which could be dangerous. AND then you'd be all awake and not be able to go back to sleep LOL!
My stairs are rotated 90 degrees and come to a tiny landing. There is a rail, it is very safe and the loft sleeping area is great. I have a window, though, to egress if I have to. Also, I am off grid, totally solar powered.
One thing's for sure, the cost of housing has gone way beyond what people can afford. I envision self-build RV's, tiny homes and repurposed buildings being huge in the coming years.
True, but a big issue is the land. Many suburbs and cities don’t have lots made for tiny homes, and don’t allow them in backyards, villages (traffic), etc. So often only retirees or those who can work remotely who can do them, on land that is somewhat in the middle of no where. And then there is the lack of appreciation in tiny homes. Many are considered like RVs, that only depreciate with time….if you do town the land underneath. My parents were probably the last generation where most bought a home in their 20s, paid it off over 50 years, and used the land appreciation to help fund their retirement.
I have wondered what it would be like to actually live in a shed-home. It's great to see someone who actually did it successfully, especially in Louisiana - pretty brave! Ellen did a great job in designing her minimalist lifestyle home - it looks lovely. She looks happy. Thanks for sharing this experience!🤗
I have been researching termite prevention. Termites have to get into the soil for their water supply. They avoid cedar since it is toxic to them. So putting cedar chips between termites and the ground looks like it would help. Plus many other pests avoid cedar too which is why closets and wooden trunks are lined in cedar.
There are several comments concerned about the ladder. But she lived 3 years sleeping on her couch and could always return to the mode. Various sofa+ bed combinations are available she can use, if she wants. She did a great job with her choices.
The paint does not seem to be the problem. This seems to be an excesssive moisture/vapor problem. It could be the lack of a vapor barrier, or the need to have the roof runoff guttered out away from the building. I am not there to look and to ask questions to explore the problem and find a solution. I am up in New England presently but I have property down in Mississippi. Ellen is smart to do what she has done. By living below ones means, one can incrementally build wealth and security at any age. Ellen is blessed not to be trapped into a mobile home park, where the rent can rob her of economic security. Ellen is also a blessing and surely an inspiration to others. I have been a KS Video Fan for a while now, but this is my first online comment.
It appears to be intercoat adhesion failure ,use a product like "peel stop" it will fix the problem...We've been painting outdoor structures for over 32 years.
Loved this segment, and her home is functional and decorated nicely. I hope you do more interviews like this one. Btw, thanks for the tip on the dehumidifier!
I love this! My husband and I have thought about doing the same thing with a shed. I think they make the cutest tiny homes. I wouldn’t want to climb a ladder though to get to my bedroom. I was in an accident in 2006 and lost my toes on my right foot. So ladders are something I don’t do anymore. My right food is about half the size of my left foot now. Other than that, I love her home! She has everything she needs. Even a washer and dryer! And a nice porch to sit on. Just a life size doll house really. I love it! ❤️💜💚
Hi, I absolutely LOVE your tiny house. We did the same thing for a vacation home in SC. As for termite control, This may sound a little crazy so we don't know if you would want to try it but it worked for us. We use off-road diesel fuel for termite and snake repellent. Just put about a cup full in several containers and put it at the four corners of your house. On the outside, of course. Termites and snakes HATE diesel fuel!!! 😊
Love her ever-so-slight Louisiana accent. She a beautiful, brave woman, even if she cried a bit during the building process. That's how we learn and grow. Really love how she just took on this project. Most people would've just moved into an apartment. Kudos to her! I hope she's still content and enjoying her not-too-tiny house with awesome storage.
Ellen is super smart and a fantastic gardener and designer! Love what she's done with the place, as a young couple just starting out my boyfriend and I could easily live here. Would just have to save up for awhile and find some land worth putting a tiny home on. Looks like such a beautiful place, both the setting and home are perfect.❤
I think Ellen is brilliant, at 67 she proves a woman CAN do things not previously believed a woman can accomplish. You go girl!!! All electric/solar is safer.
I would love to do something like this. Whats most difficult for me is that none of my family has any land and no one in family is a handyman/home builder. Land in itself cost as much as a mortgage ouch. But absolutely love what she did to shed. Looks tidy and money saving. Great job Ellen.
Buy land. Unrestricted you don't need permits or inspections. She still payed contractors same as you would have to. Lifes about CHOICES and consequences. She lives debt free. People find a ton of excuses why they can't do something.
She's so cute!!!! I adore her for downsizing and doing doing whatever it takes to set herself up for a successful, financially free life! What a wonderful thing to do for herself and her kids! My mom is a hoarder with an unknown number of storage units. My sister and I are dreading the day all that Stuff becomes our problem!
Before you replace your siding your roof needs to stick out about 12 inches so the rain doesn’t cost so much rot. The problem with sheds and the difference between having a tiny home built they will bring it to code by having the 1 foot overhang.
Yes! Great idea! I bought a 12x16 $7000 TuffShed - added sleeping and storage lofts and skylights in 13' ceilings T=$9000 - laminate floor, 10' butcher block countertop, shower, toilet with "tank topper" sink, living, kitchen - 8x8 deck in front - actually rolled it out and created a foundation after the fact - wish I'd done it first! But all in all ca $30,000 - 192 sq ft footprint, but with lofts and bumped out storage = ca 360 sq ft. Great space. Love it. And I love what Ellen has done!!!
Love her story and use of space. Only thing different I might have done differently involves her bedroom being out of the loft with either Murphy bed or electric elevated bed. Possibly a walk in bathtub as well.
For her age and mobility a bathtub works fine. It’s the 🪜 that brings the biggest concern. She should be in the habit of sleeping with her cell phone next to her. I know I do but my mother doesn’t but she would not be stuck up in a loft if there would be a medical emergency.
Kristina, you do such a lovely job of showing us the pros and cons of tiny home living, warning us what to watch out for, how to do our homework, how to buy land, etc. thank you.
I admire Ms. Ellen taking on that project. My sister has a tiny home with cedar wood siding and a metal roof. Her drip edge all the way around was too short to keep water from running down the walls during every rain. Her exterior walls took a beating. We (family) replaced the roof with longer panels and are planning to replace the exterior walls (at the next holiday when we’re all together). I don’t know if this is what is causing your paint to fade, but I thought I’d mention it. Cheers!
I have been researching and compiling a file of ideas and structural do's and don'ts. One of the must have's is the building must be wrapped in moisture barrier. If I were Ellen, I'd get a moisture barrier put down under her home because sooner or later she's going to start seeing soft spots in her floor. But, I love her home and what she's done to it. Brava, Ellen!!
Nice tiny house. People may want to look into structural steel buildings, a lot can be done with them on the inside if you dont mind the metal look on the outside.
its so amazing how she looks so much younger too when she doesnt have to worry about drowning in debt and living a simple and nice lifestyle! Thank you def subbing to this channel!
I moved into my garage, I am 63, I had no money or job. I dealt with termites in the walls. In the areas where they ate thru, I sprayed a mixture of bleach salt and water in a spray bottle. And all round outside and inside. Didn't bother the new paint (surprise!) and kept doing that spraying every 3 days then once a week, now every month. It worked for me.
I would say this is the almost the closet we're going to get when actually learning the true numbers in the game of Tiny House ownership. I mean kudos to you Kristina for this share, but to help us out here better, what was the true cost on electric. Alot of us out here don't have a brother or family members move a house for us. What's the numbers on that? It's no secret that different municipalities mean different cost, but give us a ball park cost here! If I ever own a tiny home, Kristina. Please visit and I will share to help more out there! Great video so far!
It cost her 6,000 for her installation of utilities, including septic and water well. to put in. Her electric bill on the highest end is $50 and on the low end it’s $20.
Electric bill is lower since I added the split level a/c-heat. Highly recommend this from the get-go!!! Spend the extra. Wish I had put it in when I did the build out
In East Tennessee it costed us $1,200 for the electric company to run 130 feet of overhead wire, adding a 30’ pole halfway, and connecting to my electric pole. This was for connecting two 200 amp panels. From there we plan to run multiple tiny homes/sheds. 100 amp service would have been plenty for her house but most commonly all connections are now 200amps.
Thank you for showing this, I just bought a 14x40 cabin with the wrap around porch and will be turning it into a home. I've been doing a lot of research into this and one of the main things is ventilation, ventilation, ventilation!. They make a ventilation barrier that you staple between your rafters that keeps airflow going up from the sofit, between the roofing and insulation. One guy converted one into a home fir him and his family and they had major ventilation problems and ended up with black mold because the insulation was expanding foam sprayed on the roofing. A tiny bathroom vent and the stove had a non venting fan...
Charming, she mentions "keeping the clutter down" which gives the home an "elbow room" effect. Also, the open floor plan is modern, and the high ceiling eliminates the claustrophobic feeling that a tiny house usually has.
Great interview! Both of you have great attitudes. I appreciate that you are sympathetic to those of us who want to live more minimally, Kristina. I got lots of ideas.
Beneficial Nementodes worked into the soil around the base of the home and watered into the soil, in the spring after freeze. Apply every other year. Works great!
Great and informative video! My husband and I talk about doing this when we get into our late 50's (we are currently in our early 40's) and just like Ellen we are novices and would have to just jump into it. I absolutely love her home and she is such an inspiration! Thank you for for your amazing videos, you are also an inspiration, Kristina! :)
I love her tenacity! Regarding the termites, etc. ~ I’m thinking “diatomaceous earth”. I’ve used it with success, but not on termites. I sprinkle it around the inside of my house (killed fleas) and outside my house around the foundation.
DE only works when it's dry. It is a mechanical insect killer - kills soft bodied insects by piercing them and making them dehydrate and die. Once wet, it loses that ability, and clumps.
A very old remedy for termites, is simply use cedar wood. When you can't use the wood, use the oil! There are no insects that can tolerate cedar. It works for a great siding as well. Do not use vinyl siding! It is not worth the money. Aluminum siding works, but it dents very easily. Cedar lasts between 50 to 75 years. It also will not be affected by termites.
I turned 67 last February. Just discovering the shed to home idea and would love to have my own! I live in Colorado but could move to MI onto my cousins land. thank you for making this video! Hope to hear from you !! Deborah
Outstanding. As for home insurance, I have not had any since 1989, and I live in north Florida. I am fortunately blessed with a lot of handyman skills and have done a lot of large projects by myself. I am 75 and retired from the Army, my wife is a retired school teacher. I was considering building one of those tiny houses for my granddaughter, and may still do it. Our house was built in 1845 and has weathered a LOT of storms in 178 years. Our last big storm here a lot of trees came down in our neighborhood, but not a single one hit any house, just took out powerlines. Blessings on Ellen and her tiny house. It is nice.
I have thought about doing this before, after seeing the shed places on the side of the road. The thing would be to build it out right in such a way that doesn't allow for moisture, which makes mold if the base of it is metal. That room she sectioned off would be where I'd put a bedroom.
If anyone is looking 12ac 2 tiny homes well water, solar,etc can't post link address is 0 Jacks Fork Farmstead Hwy 137 willow springs MO MLS: 6*0*2*1*1*8*3*4 cash/verifiable funds only no mold EVER!
I would recommend Hardy plank siding. It is cement board and would look a lot like your current siding. It won't need painting for something like 20 years and it is impervious to termites.
I don’t have my husband on board with the tiny home. I am in my sixties and I would like to have my living space paid for. Thank you for sharing Kristina. I agree this woman is very brave! 😀
Buy one and plop it in the yard, lol Boxabl has one for 50k complete, like 20 x 20, a 2 car garage, basically. Everything included, plus 2.00 mile from Vegas.
I’ve been curious about this! I’d be like this sweet lady! I’m a researcher and less than 5 yrs to retirement. We have family land so I just need to figure out what aim going to do! Your channel has been fabulous and very informational for me!
As for the termites there are three types of wood mulch that repels them, cedar, redwood, and cypress. All three have sap and resins that termites will not reside in or eat, and can be fatal to them. I Canada we tend to use cedar a lot, not only is cedar more moisture resistant because of these natural resins, it repels bugs. So we tend to use it indoors to keep bugs like mosquitos and flies out of the house. Works amazing.
This is a full house although not cluttered at all. It's not empty like a model home, so you can feel that this is how real people live. I think that a smaller place certainly makes you think about "want" vs. "need" - something that we all would do well to consider in our own lives.
I admire Ellen for doing all that work! I was looking at the same thing in 2016 when I was planning my retirement. I investigated log cabins, tiny homes, stick built homes, shed homes, shipping containers, etc... all were way to expensive especially with the build out of a shed or shell. I settled on a 908 sqft brand new 3 br 2 ba 2016 Fleetwood mobile home for $34,000 delivered and set up. No guess work, no carpentry, no engineering, no picking appliances that fit weird spaces. I love my mobile home on 12 acres by a lake. I have city water that cost $1100 to run the line to the house and $750 for the meter, electric EMC ran the lines for free if it's under 1000 ft from the road, $3500 septic. Way to go Ellen! I admire your efforts.👏 I was just too lazy to do all that work.
Nice video and the house looks cozy. People are mentioning the danger of the ladder to the bed. Maybe a convertible couch might work better. It's a shame this is so hard to do. The granny pod / tiny house makes a lot of economic sense, way better than shipping off your relatives to nursing homes. Families should stay close, but this is nice as you have your own private space that's easy to clean and cheap to heat. Also, I liked seeing the small tankless water heater and dehumidifier. That's interesting!
I have been researching tiny homes myself to get ideas and learn and research because I would love to someday either by or construct my own. I do feel that this is a huge turning point in the housing industry because it's so cost-effective and for people minimalist especially this works perfectly.
There is a business near us that makes garages for people and a few of them are two story. One of them had an upstairs "loft" area large enough for a substantial bedroom, bathroom and possible storage. I think it would be fun to order one and convert it into a tiny home. Of course the garage door would have to go.
We went tiny once. We loved it. We're 65 and 66. We loved it. But location wasn't right. While in transition of going to see about moving it. It was stolen. Now, we start over
I’ll get this shared to a few places on fb. So many tiny homes or barn home groups . Yurt and hugs. Love all of it. I’d love 20 of these on my land with 26 Rv water and sewer spots. Love this lady. Keep sharing xo
Dehumidifier is the way to go! A small unit ( say 11 gals ) will not only extract the humidity and control any mold issues, but it will run enough to help heat the home. There are some for $150'ish that have 4-in-1 features: fan, dehumidifier, heat, and air purifier. Check into it. I like Lowe's, but the are others online. Cool home you have. I live in an RV and the issues and maintenance is similar. The on-demand water is an excellent idea. Thank you for sharing
I had given some thought about tiny homes but,there are many,many not thought of costs that make it questionable. Bless them for being able to do this.
Definitely change the siding, in my climate I would just nail it over the existing plywood but in high humidity there may need to be other considerations ...
I am 73 and doing it. After 7 years of being a nomad vanlifer, bought some land in FL and a 12x24 shed. She is a work in progress, learning as I go but I am loving the new experience.
The T8 siding should likely be replaced looks like you could start getting water intrusion which could lead to additional damage. Vinyl siding would probably be the least expensive option. Although you may want to plan on replacing your weather barrier under the siding. Possible pull off the items and replace with zip sheathing and than add vinyl on top?
What about Hardie board? Practically impervious to the elements especially after being caulked and painted. A little difficult to install but I'd just seal up the current siding, add a vapor barrier and board right over.
It’s amazing to me how much can be done with the square footage of tiny homes, and the different configurations people com up with! I love tiny homes! It’s a super option for the aging population!
I love this beautiful, simple home. I'm a lover of cedar and I've used it around my home. Bugs do not like cedar. I would surround my home with cedar chips.
_What do youthink of Ellen's home? Do you have any Advice for her about her home?_ *Affordable Shed Homes At Home Depot For Less Than 20k: **th-cam.com/video/sDkYMT6p280/w-d-xo.html*
I left her a reply....VINEGAR....darling home
@@lindanewburn3021 thank You.
Copper Coat seems to work really well against bugs, kind of expensive but better than getting the pests. Home Depot carries it.
I brought one and I love it. I also went all electric but I have it connected a propane generator. I would glue down wooden boards and use (home defense) from lowes, the termites hate it. Spray all over area last 10 to 11 months. Replace wood if you can then spray it all over the wood then paint. I had this problem. So far it's working. Just keep up with spraying trouble areas within 10 to 12 months.
As for termites they usually come up from the ground. Her home is high off the ground. I think she will probably be okay with termites.
I have some advice for the insurance situation. Being that it it a tiny home, just about any needed repair would be substantially less than a larger traditional home, right? So, instead of fussing with traditional insurance companies, open a savings account at a bank and make payments to it like you would to an insurance company. Never touch that account unless it would be for something that you would otherwise turn into your insurance. The advantages to this method is that ALL money you contribute would be available to you, there would be no deductible, and YOU act as the insurance adjuster, meaning YOU pick what is covered, who can make the repairs, and to what extent the repairs are made. Just think of a payment amount you are comfortable making per month, then religiously make that payment. An added bonus is once you meet a balance that covers total replacement cost for the building and the contents, you can stop making your "insurance payments" and still remain fully "covered."
Thanks for the information.
Brilliant idea!
Yes!
Awesome idea
Great idea for the long haul, but not if damage happens anytime in the near future.
She was extremely lucky that she had family to help her out. Because a lot of people can't say that
True that
That’s what I keep hearing about the ppl interviewed for their tiny homes..
“Thankgod I had family to move the home”
“Thank goodness my dad is a carpenter,and owns a construction business”
“Thank goodness my uncle is a general contractor”
“Thank goodness my family had a few acres to gives us,and we just plug into their electric/water/waste systems..etc..seems like these ppl have all the luck.
I want to meet a family that didn’t have all that “luck”, and how they managed.
@@maureenjossick429 I might have to make a video in the future for younger people with little savings and zero networking that did not get all kinds of help. I actually went off grid wit farm animals and well and wood stove and barn all built by me mostly salvaged and it's not none of these glamorous looking videos. Everything is rigged and cheap but efficient. 2 yead process to get to what I envisioned having to wait on deals or finding free stuff and salvaging wood.
Yep teamwork brought it to completion. That's what family, friends, do
My son just bought one of these and moved it to his land do he's just starting.
If you can afford it get two of these, maybe one a bit smaller for the bed and bath. Make it L shaped and build a covered deck in the L with a door for outside access. Just an idea for others wanting to do something like this.
That's a wonderful idea. I could see a screened in porch-type area including part of the top for shade and sun. Would be nice for a little pond surrounded by some self-sufficient plants (succulents might work well) with seating. Early mornings and evenings would be great outside. Or forgot the pond and do covered screened porch with nice, comfortable seating, grill, table and chairs. Would be lovely and added living space. Then bedroom on ground level and loft/s for storage. If lofts were set of for storage, I would use an electrical set up for easy up and down to put things in and take things out of storage.
You read my mind. That is exactly what I plan to do.
@@vickykent353 I agree totally
Most definitely I would buy (2) 2story home from Home Depot
This is exactly what we are planning
As for termites, Put flashing on the top of the cement blocks with the flashing several inches larger than the top of the block. Bend the top of the flashing downwards. When the termites come up the blocks and meet the flashing, they go back down and do not get to the wood. No poison needed. Blessings
The metal flashing should have been added "BEFORE" the shed was sat down on the blocks.
No wood touches the ground; water rots the bottom wood and seeps up into it several inches. Look at the bottom outside of any wooden building, snow and rain, even watering the grass will ruin the wood and the stain/color. LUCK!
awesome reply
Great suggestion about the flashing! As an added bit of protection, termites HATE geranium plants.
Termites generally do not climb concrete, just do not ever have any wood touching the ground.
I am 65 and retired. As a healthcare provider I can tell you the thought of her going up and down that ladder as she gets older is fairly dangerous. The two causes of injuries to women in retirement that we saw the most we're from tripping over hoses and climbing ladders. It's actually why I stopped doing my own painting which I loved. Otherwise I think the layout is adorable
A Murphy bed would be more appropriate.
@@JAMES-sz5du that's exactly what I was thinking. Then you could use that loft for grandkids. Or if there isn't enough room on that wall then perhaps that couch could be a pull out couch
@@karenstasik2979 love your style, attitude and wish you all the best. Hope to have chance to visit your gorgeous tiny home.🤩🤩
I am 59 and I stumbled out of bed. I hit the corner on the side table and it hurt. Then I saw blood all over and dripping from my face. I cut open on the brow bone. I know why they cut boxer's eyes now,, it's to let the blood out so they can see. I fell 2 days later face first on concrete. That loft and ladder are a death trap for me.
@@JAMES-sz5du while I think a tiny home would be fine, my retirement home is a one-bedroom with an open layout and a loft for guests. But it has stairs to the loft. It's less than 2000 square feet. And because I live in Florida it is block constructed. I don't think I'd want to be here in a tiny home with the weather that we can get. 🏝🌀🌪
I am in a shed to home. I am nearly 78 y/o and my home is fully paid for. It was constructed by the Amish and is very sound. I am on my son's property so he added the home to his insurance. I have water and electricity. I do have to use a composting toilet (yuk) because there was no way to hook into my son's septic without great expense. I have decorated with the theme of a mountain or lakeside cabin. I love it! Gramma Candy
What about incinerator toilet?
Winds of March what is an incinerator toilet ?
Are you sleeping in a loft hard to get up there
So cute and her son letting her live on the land is a plus! Only thing I would change would be putting the bedroom on bottom floor, that ladder to loft will be harder and more dangerous for older folks.
Plus, if needing to go to the bathroom in the middle of the night, would have to navigate down the back up half asleep which could be dangerous. AND then you'd be all awake and not be able to go back to sleep LOL!
Getting up and going to the bathroom in the middle of the night wouldn't be fun.
My stairs are rotated 90 degrees and come to a tiny landing. There is a rail, it is very safe and the loft sleeping area is great. I have a window, though, to egress if I have to. Also, I am off grid, totally solar powered.
First of all, Ellen looks absolutely amazing for a 67 year old! Secondly, I love her tiny home. I generally don't like tiny homes very often either
Thank you!!!
DE kills bugs
I turned a shed into a tiny house a few years ago also. I had no idea what I was getting into but I love, love, love it.
I love my shed tiny house....mine is not finished yet but I am in it anyways.....or else it would be car living....I prefer my tiny shed home
She is so humble.. love her attitude. Glad it works for her and love the area she lives in..
It’s really nice that she has family that helped her a lot.
$6k for well and septic is a steal. I just paid $20k total for both in 2022.
She's a really fearless woman. It's really encouraging to see someone take the tiny house leap.
I 100% agree!! She's AMAZING!!
She had tons of help, and support so why would she be fearful?
One thing's for sure, the cost of housing has gone way beyond what people can afford. I envision self-build RV's, tiny homes and repurposed buildings being huge in the coming years.
Already seeing this
New videos every day of people and families redoing RVs and all kinds of small building to live in
True, but a big issue is the land. Many suburbs and cities don’t have lots made for tiny homes, and don’t allow them in backyards, villages (traffic), etc. So often only retirees or those who can work remotely who can do them, on land that is somewhat in the middle of no where.
And then there is the lack of appreciation in tiny homes. Many are considered like RVs, that only depreciate with time….if you do town the land underneath. My parents were probably the last generation where most bought a home in their 20s, paid it off over 50 years, and used the land appreciation to help fund their retirement.
I love this! I just turned 58 and looking to retire debt and stress free allowing me to complete my bucket list.
Isn’t it awesome!!??
I have wondered what it would be like to actually live in a shed-home. It's great to see someone who actually did it successfully, especially in Louisiana - pretty brave! Ellen did a great job in designing her minimalist lifestyle home - it looks lovely. She looks happy. Thanks for sharing this experience!🤗
I have been researching termite prevention. Termites have to get into the soil for their water supply. They avoid cedar since it is toxic to them. So putting cedar chips between termites and the ground looks like it would help. Plus many other pests avoid cedar too which is why closets and wooden trunks are lined in cedar.
Thank You.
Thank you for researching👏
Check into a product called Cedarcide. They have sprays and granules.
Cedar and diatomaceous earth. When I lived in my rv, I used DE to prevent ants without harming the ground or my cats that lived with me.
Feed stores sells the natural bug killer powder .
There are several comments concerned about the ladder. But she lived 3 years sleeping on her couch and could always return to the mode. Various sofa+ bed combinations are available she can use, if she wants. She did a great job with her choices.
Absolutely agree! 😀
The paint does not seem to be the problem. This seems to be an excesssive moisture/vapor problem. It could be the lack of a vapor barrier, or the need to have the roof runoff guttered out away from the building. I am not there to look and to ask questions to explore the problem and find a solution. I am up in New England presently but I have property down in Mississippi. Ellen is smart to do what she has done. By living below ones means, one can incrementally build wealth and security at any age. Ellen is blessed not to be trapped into a mobile home park, where the rent can rob her of economic security. Ellen is also a blessing and surely an inspiration to others. I have been a KS Video Fan for a while now, but this is my first online comment.
Thank you, James
It appears to be intercoat adhesion failure ,use a product like "peel stop" it will fix the problem...We've been painting outdoor structures for over 32 years.
That was my thought when I saw the siding bowing... mousture.
Every bit of it looks exactly like what a grandma's house is supposed to look like the plants, wind chimes, pics of the grandkids, I love it
Loved this segment, and her home is functional and decorated nicely. I hope you do more interviews like this one. Btw, thanks for the tip on the dehumidifier!
Yes! I’m planning on doing more of these this year.
@@KristinaSmallhorn I’ll be looking out for these. I’ll need to do something for myself very soon.
I love this! My husband and I have thought about doing the same thing with a shed. I think they make the cutest tiny homes. I wouldn’t want to climb a ladder though to get to my bedroom. I was in an accident in 2006 and lost my toes on my right foot. So ladders are something I don’t do anymore. My right food is about half the size of my left foot now. Other than that, I love her home! She has everything she needs. Even a washer and dryer! And a nice porch to sit on. Just a life size doll house really. I love it!
❤️💜💚
I 61 and I did it. It's a lot of work, and some stress but when done, it's a breath of fresh air.
Hi, I absolutely LOVE your tiny house. We did the same thing for a vacation home in SC. As for termite control, This may sound a little crazy so we don't know if you would want to try it but it worked for us. We use off-road diesel fuel for termite and snake repellent. Just put about a cup full in several containers and put it at the four corners of your house. On the outside, of course. Termites and snakes HATE diesel fuel!!! 😊
Dumb question, can it combust on its own...?
@@windsofmarchjourneyperrytr2823 No.
What type of containers would you recommend?
Open containers of the diesel fuel?
Love her ever-so-slight Louisiana accent. She a beautiful, brave woman, even if she cried a bit during the building process. That's how we learn and grow.
Really love how she just took on this project. Most people would've just moved into an apartment. Kudos to her! I hope she's still content and enjoying her not-too-tiny house with awesome storage.
Ellen is super smart and a fantastic gardener and designer! Love what she's done with the place, as a young couple just starting out my boyfriend and I could easily live here. Would just have to save up for awhile and find some land worth putting a tiny home on. Looks like such a beautiful place, both the setting and home are perfect.❤
Thank You for letting her know. She is reading all the nice comments people are leaving.
Oh, Thank you!!
@@ellenroyal Your house is beautiful. Thank you for sharing it with us.
I think Ellen is brilliant, at 67 she proves a woman CAN do things not previously believed a woman can accomplish. You go girl!!! All electric/solar is safer.
I would love to do something like this. Whats most difficult for me is that none of my family has any land and no one in family is a handyman/home builder. Land in itself cost as much as a mortgage ouch. But absolutely love what she did to shed. Looks tidy and money saving. Great job Ellen.
Same for me.
Learn. As you already know, TH-cam is very helpful!
Buy land. Unrestricted you don't need permits or inspections. She still payed contractors same as you would have to.
Lifes about CHOICES and consequences.
She lives debt free.
People find a ton of excuses why they can't do something.
@@backroadsusa6915 Facts! Great point . People will talk themselves out of doing anything.
My family doesn't have land and they aren't builders or carpenters either. I would love to go tiny !!!
She's so cute!!!! I adore her for downsizing and doing doing whatever it takes to set herself up for a successful, financially free life! What a wonderful thing to do for herself and her kids! My mom is a hoarder with an unknown number of storage units. My sister and I are dreading the day all that Stuff becomes our problem!
Before you replace your siding your roof needs to stick out about 12 inches so the rain doesn’t cost so much rot. The problem with sheds and the difference between having a tiny home built they will bring it to code by having the 1 foot overhang.
Yes this makes sense. Gosh
Alice coppers.....now that you mention roof overhanging....that makes sense and would help....
Great info. Thanks. We are ordering our shed this spring.
Yes! Great idea! I bought a 12x16 $7000 TuffShed - added sleeping and storage lofts and skylights in 13' ceilings T=$9000 - laminate floor, 10' butcher block countertop, shower, toilet with "tank topper" sink, living, kitchen - 8x8 deck in front - actually rolled it out and created a foundation after the fact - wish I'd done it first! But all in all ca $30,000 - 192 sq ft footprint, but with lofts and bumped out storage = ca 360 sq ft. Great space. Love it. And I love what Ellen has done!!!
Love her story and use of space. Only thing different I might have done differently involves her bedroom being out of the loft with either Murphy bed or electric elevated bed. Possibly a walk in bathtub as well.
I asked her about her couch being a pullout bed. She said she hadn’t really given it much thought but it wasn’t a bad idea.
That would be just a storage place for me. Things that are not used very often.
For her age and mobility a bathtub works fine. It’s the 🪜 that brings the biggest concern. She should be in the habit of sleeping with her cell phone next to her. I know I do but my mother doesn’t but she would not be stuck up in a loft if there would be a medical emergency.
@@jeannerountree952 she does sleep on her little couch often. But I will also say she more fit than most 30 year olds.
@@jeannerountree952 or a medic alert necklace that calls for help automatically if you fall down.
Kristina, you do such a lovely job of showing us the pros and cons of tiny home living, warning us what to watch out for, how to do our homework, how to buy land, etc. thank you.
That is one smart lady. Lovely home, thanks for sharing. She would be great at consulting others for a small fee.
Love your video. Never seen one this absolutely thorough with the details. Ellen seems like a sweetheart. Fantastic video. Thumbsed up and subscribed.
I admire Ms. Ellen taking on that project. My sister has a tiny home with cedar wood siding and a metal roof. Her drip edge all the way around was too short to keep water from running down the walls during every rain. Her exterior walls took a beating. We (family) replaced the roof with longer panels and are planning to replace the exterior walls (at the next holiday when we’re all together).
I don’t know if this is what is causing your paint to fade, but I thought I’d mention it. Cheers!
Thank you.
Thank you. I am hoping this spring to get some family to help replace the outside covering Leaning toward corrugated panels
We added rain gutters and worked great to divert water away
I have been researching and compiling a file of ideas and structural do's and don'ts. One of the must have's is the building must be wrapped in moisture barrier. If I were Ellen, I'd get a moisture barrier put down under her home because sooner or later she's going to start seeing soft spots in her floor. But, I love her home and what she's done to it. Brava, Ellen!!
Nice tiny house. People may want to look into structural steel buildings, a lot can be done with them on the inside if you dont mind the metal look on the outside.
Thank you
Ellen did a superb job on her shed home. Love the kitchen and porch best!
I am wanting to have a tiny home I am amazed by the work she put into her little home ☺️
its so amazing how she looks so much younger too when she doesnt have to worry about drowning in debt and living a simple and nice lifestyle!
Thank you def subbing to this channel!
I moved into my garage, I am 63, I had no money or job. I dealt with termites in the walls. In the areas where they ate thru, I sprayed a mixture of bleach salt and water in a spray bottle. And all round outside and inside. Didn't bother the new paint (surprise!) and kept doing that spraying every 3 days then once a week, now every month. It worked for me.
I Love it,She's so blessed she had family to help.
What a great solution for affordable living, and so cute and comfortable too!
I liked the fact that she was honest about everything! Awesome home , maybe if it were mine I'd put vinyl siding
I would say this is the almost the closet we're going to get when actually learning the true numbers in the game of Tiny House ownership. I mean kudos to you Kristina for this share, but to help us out here better, what was the true cost on electric. Alot of us out here don't have a brother or family members move a house for us. What's the numbers on that? It's no secret that different municipalities mean different cost, but give us a ball park cost here! If I ever own a tiny home, Kristina. Please visit and I will share to help more out there! Great video so far!
It cost her 6,000 for her installation of utilities, including septic and water well. to put in. Her electric bill on the highest end is $50 and on the low end it’s $20.
Electric bill is lower since I added the split level a/c-heat. Highly recommend this from the get-go!!! Spend the extra. Wish I had put it in when I did the build out
@@KristinaSmallhorn I figured it would be double that price. Cheapest septic I've found was 4500. There isn't water at the road to hook in to
In East Tennessee it costed us $1,200 for the electric company to run 130 feet of overhead wire, adding a 30’ pole halfway, and connecting to my electric pole. This was for connecting two 200 amp panels. From there we plan to run multiple tiny homes/sheds. 100 amp service would have been plenty for her house but most commonly all connections are now 200amps.
Thank you for showing this, I just bought a 14x40 cabin with the wrap around porch and will be turning it into a home. I've been doing a lot of research into this and one of the main things is ventilation, ventilation, ventilation!. They make a ventilation barrier that you staple between your rafters that keeps airflow going up from the sofit, between the roofing and insulation.
One guy converted one into a home fir him and his family and they had major ventilation problems and ended up with black mold because the insulation was expanding foam sprayed on the roofing. A tiny bathroom vent and the stove had a non venting fan...
Doody what do you think would be the best roofing scenario? Would pink insulation be better instead of the open cell spray insulation?
Thanks for sharing. Me and my husband has turned a shed into a tiny house. I love it, would never be able to go into a "regular size" home
Charming, she mentions "keeping the clutter down" which gives the home an "elbow room" effect. Also, the open floor plan is modern, and the high ceiling eliminates the claustrophobic feeling that a tiny house usually has.
Great interview! Both of you have great attitudes. I appreciate that you are sympathetic to those of us who want to live more minimally, Kristina. I got lots of ideas.
Thank you for watching. I will be bringing more stories like this as the year goes on.
Yes!!!
Fantastic story! Thanks for sharing.
Planning on doing it and have a lot more rehab experience but this is encouraging. Great video
You can do it!!
Thank you
Awesome interview and very informative. Thank u
Beneficial Nementodes worked into the soil around the base of the home and watered into the soil, in the spring after freeze. Apply every other year. Works great!
Ellen is awesome and honest I love what she has done to her tiny home. 💕💕❤💕
Great and informative video! My husband and I talk about doing this when we get into our late 50's (we are currently in our early 40's) and just like Ellen we are novices and would have to just jump into it. I absolutely love her home and she is such an inspiration! Thank you for for your amazing videos, you are also an inspiration, Kristina! :)
Thank you for watching and your kind words.
Thank you!!!
I love her tenacity! Regarding the termites, etc. ~ I’m thinking “diatomaceous earth”. I’ve used it with success, but not on termites. I sprinkle it around the inside of my house (killed fleas) and outside my house around the foundation.
DE only works when it's dry. It is a mechanical insect killer - kills soft bodied insects by piercing them and making them dehydrate and die. Once wet, it loses that ability, and clumps.
Gutters would work to keep the water from running down the side. That would probably help the siding
A very old remedy for termites, is simply use cedar wood. When you can't use the wood, use the oil! There are no insects that can tolerate cedar. It works for a great siding as well. Do not use vinyl siding! It is not worth the money. Aluminum siding works, but it dents very easily. Cedar lasts between 50 to 75 years. It also will not be affected by termites.
I would love one on my property as a guest house! It’s amazing! ❤️
I turned 67 last February. Just discovering the shed to home idea and would love to have my own! I live in Colorado but could move to MI onto my cousins land. thank you for making this video! Hope to hear from you !! Deborah
Outstanding. As for home insurance, I have not had any since 1989, and I live in north Florida. I am fortunately blessed with a lot of handyman skills and have done a lot of large projects by myself. I am 75 and retired from the Army, my wife is a retired school teacher. I was considering building one of those tiny houses for my granddaughter, and may still do it. Our house was built in 1845 and has weathered a LOT of storms in 178 years. Our last big storm here a lot of trees came down in our neighborhood, but not a single one hit any house, just took out powerlines. Blessings on Ellen and her tiny house. It is nice.
I have thought about doing this before, after seeing the shed places on the side of the road. The thing would be to build it out right in such a way that doesn't allow for moisture, which makes mold if the base of it is metal. That room she sectioned off would be where I'd put a bedroom.
Exactly. Many people have had to abandon these shed homes due to the black mold!
@@terminatortsw8006 that is interesting. Very serious issue!
If anyone is looking 12ac 2 tiny homes well water, solar,etc can't post link address is 0 Jacks Fork Farmstead Hwy 137 willow springs MO MLS: 6*0*2*1*1*8*3*4 cash/verifiable funds only no mold EVER!
She looks abolutely fabulous for 67. Wow, keep doing what you are doing and stay young. You inspire me.
I absolutely love it! It's so cute! And she seems like such a vibrant and fun person! Wishing her all the best!
Absolutely beautiful home. Thank you for sharing. Have a great day. 👍
I would recommend Hardy plank siding. It is cement board and would look a lot like your current siding. It won't need painting for something like 20 years and it is impervious to termites.
I don’t have my husband on board with the tiny home. I am in my sixties and I would like to have my living space paid for. Thank you for sharing Kristina. I agree this woman is very brave! 😀
Buy one and plop it in the yard, lol
Boxabl has one for 50k complete, like 20 x 20, a 2 car garage, basically. Everything included, plus 2.00 mile from Vegas.
I’ve been curious about this! I’d be like this sweet lady! I’m a researcher and less than 5 yrs to retirement. We have family land so I just need to figure out what aim going to do! Your channel has been fabulous and very informational for me!
This is definitely more inspiring than the expensive tiny home videos!
What an amazing and inspiring story. Thank you for sharing.
She’s so cool. I had a really great time with her.
@@KristinaSmallhorn It looks like it.
As for the termites there are three types of wood mulch that repels them, cedar, redwood, and cypress. All three have sap and resins that termites will not reside in or eat, and can be fatal to them. I Canada we tend to use cedar a lot, not only is cedar more moisture resistant because of these natural resins, it repels bugs. So we tend to use it indoors to keep bugs like mosquitos and flies out of the house. Works amazing.
This is a full house although not cluttered at all. It's not empty like a model home, so you can feel that this is how real people live. I think that a smaller place certainly makes you think about "want" vs. "need" - something that we all would do well to consider in our own lives.
This is a great interview. She did a beautiful job on her home.
Gutters would help with the warping of the would outside. My storage shed did the same thing. Very nice tiny home!
I admire Ellen for doing all that work! I was looking at the same thing in 2016 when I was planning my retirement. I investigated log cabins, tiny homes, stick built homes, shed homes, shipping containers, etc... all were way to expensive especially with the build out of a shed or shell. I settled on a 908 sqft brand new 3 br 2 ba 2016 Fleetwood mobile home for $34,000 delivered and set up. No guess work, no carpentry, no engineering, no picking appliances that fit weird spaces. I love my mobile home on 12 acres by a lake. I have city water that cost $1100 to run the line to the house and $750 for the meter, electric EMC ran the lines for free if it's under 1000 ft from the road, $3500 septic. Way to go Ellen! I admire your efforts.👏 I was just too lazy to do all that work.
And in some ways, you were Smarter.
@@alfr1 Don't know if I was smarter, maybe just lazier. LOL
So smart! Love the way she designed this. It’s all she needs to be happy!! 💕💕
Thank you!!!
This idea is so convinent I enjoyed it.
Nice video and the house looks cozy. People are mentioning the danger of the ladder to the bed. Maybe a convertible couch might work better.
It's a shame this is so hard to do. The granny pod / tiny house makes a lot of economic sense, way better than shipping off your relatives to nursing homes. Families should stay close, but this is nice as you have your own private space that's easy to clean and cheap to heat.
Also, I liked seeing the small tankless water heater and dehumidifier. That's interesting!
I have been researching tiny homes myself to get ideas and learn and research because I would love to someday either by or construct my own. I do feel that this is a huge turning point in the housing industry because it's so cost-effective and for people minimalist especially this works perfectly.
There is a business near us that makes garages for people and a few of them are two story. One of them had an upstairs "loft" area large enough for a substantial bedroom, bathroom and possible storage. I think it would be fun to order one and convert it into a tiny home. Of course the garage door would have to go.
We went tiny once. We loved it. We're 65 and 66. We loved it. But location wasn't right. While in transition of going to see about moving it. It was stolen. Now, we start over
I’ll get this shared to a few places on fb. So many tiny homes or barn home groups . Yurt and hugs. Love all of it.
I’d love 20 of these on my land with 26 Rv water and sewer spots.
Love this lady. Keep sharing xo
thank you!!!
Thank you my friend. Isn’t Ellen Amazing!?!?
@@ellenroyal great job, I absolutely love this. You rock Ellen. This video will help a lot of people get their creativity going. Xo
I am 58 and have been looking into a tiny home. She did an amazing job!
You should put up rain gutters up to keep rain from running of on your hous'es side walls. This would reduce the water damage.
Dehumidifier is the way to go! A small unit ( say 11 gals ) will not only extract the humidity and control any mold issues, but it will run enough to help heat the home. There are some for $150'ish that have 4-in-1 features: fan, dehumidifier, heat, and air purifier. Check into it. I like Lowe's, but the are others online. Cool home you have. I live in an RV and the issues and maintenance is similar. The on-demand water is an excellent idea. Thank you for sharing
love this. no time for high mortgages. I want a tiny home but with decent space.
I had given some thought about tiny homes but,there are many,many not thought of costs that make it questionable. Bless them for being able to do this.
Definitely change the siding, in my climate I would just nail it over the existing plywood but in high humidity there may need to be other considerations ...
I am 73 and doing it. After 7 years of being a nomad vanlifer, bought some land in FL and a 12x24 shed. She is a work in progress, learning as I go but I am loving the new experience.
It's nice! I'd skip the loft and set up a big daybed to use as a sofa and bed instead.
I love her carefree attitude about the paint, insurance, and termites. No worries 😌 If it happens it happens
My 2 bedroom 1 bath manufactured home brand new in 2017 cost 40k best decision I made buying it saved me so much money not having to rent
She did make it very cozy! It's a real home, like this.
Great production value. Very informative. I really want to get into homesteading. And it channel is really great. Love your enthusiasm
Having Land and family business helps. She is blessed. Very nice tiny home
The T8 siding should likely be replaced looks like you could start getting water intrusion which could lead to additional damage. Vinyl siding would probably be the least expensive option. Although you may want to plan on replacing your weather barrier under the siding. Possible pull off the items and replace with zip sheathing and than add vinyl on top?
Thanks!!!
What about Hardie board? Practically impervious to the elements especially after being caulked and painted. A little difficult to install but I'd just seal up the current siding, add a vapor barrier and board right over.
It’s amazing to me how much can be done with the square footage of tiny homes, and the different configurations people com up with! I love tiny homes! It’s a super option for the aging population!
My tiny home has metal exterior and roof also skirting. In two different colors and then white trim. I love it.
Thank you!!!!!
Your place looks cozy and you have utilized your space very well
I love this beautiful, simple home. I'm a lover of cedar and I've used it around my home. Bugs do not like cedar. I would surround my home with cedar chips.