Considering BOXABL?
Maybe you wonder if BOXABL is an affordable alternative to renting. Or maybe you've got land that you'd like to put something on for vacation/ rental property. The question is: would you want a BOXABL?
The idea behind BOXABL is simple: they are box-like units costing about $50k that are completely prefabricated in a warehouse, can stand alone or be connected to increase home size, and they are unfolded on site within hours. They are energy efficient and environmentally friendly. Add to this the option for an ADA compliant, wheelchair accessiblelayout and the question becomes: Who wouldn't want a BOXABL home?
The pros:
If you're like many Americans from multiple generations wanting to get away from the traditional home packed with stuff and try a minimalist lifestyle, the 375 sq. ft. Casita model, would be a pro, not a con. It's small size is mitigated by the thoughtful open floorpan, large windows, and high ceilings. Though the size of a studio, it still features regular sized appliances, solid wood cabinetry, a modern look and a cottage style exterior. They are on trend right out of the box. This is very attractive for home buyers struggling to come up with a down payment on a fixer- upper in today's market.
I am interested in reading reviews on the Casita's performance over time. As it is, BOXABL is promoting the Casita as very energy efficient, with a high R- Value foam insulation and limited thermal bridging. There is an expectation that your utility bills will be lower. If you attach solar panels to your unit, you can further improve efficiency. Being smaller and factory-built also means the energy used and cost of construction will be lower too.
As for their durability, the Casita is built to last a lifetime with steel, concrete, and laminated panels touted as stronger than your average home. It is made to be mold resistant and rated to withstand hurricane winds - something friends in Southeast Texas and Louisiana might care about. They are also snow load rated- something you might not care as much about.
Now for the cons:
Besides the obvious that the Casita is small, it doesn't allow for a lot of customization, like most new builds. This may not bother buyers because, as we mentioned, they do look pretty great.
The biggest consideration is where you will put it. There's the purchase of land, necessary permits, and utility hook ups to navigate. It may simplify things that the Casita is supposed to work with any foundation type. BOXABL also offer buyers help interpreting local codes and obtaining permits. Though these expenses are an issue no matter what home you build, it is still a consideration because BOXABL claims it's up-front set up fees can range from $5000 to $50,000 depending on location and permits. It is still modest for a new home, especially if you look at the consistent rise in building costs, but could double the initial price of the Casita.
If all of these drawbacks are not an obstacle for you, then it is just a matter of getting on BOXABL's lengthy waitlist. This may or may not rival the 7-10 month turnaround period for a new build. (Or longer if you're in central Texas.) If you're not in a hurry, it will give you time to see how well these homes perform after a year or two. We can't predict how quickly the Casita will be available in the future as BOXABL is growing and acquiring more investors every day. At the moment 1 Casita model is built in a warehouse per day, with a goal of eventually producing one every 90 minutes.
Let us know if you're interested in modular or tiny homes and we will keep you updated on any developments in BOXABL and it's impact here in Texas.
More Casita info and reviews:
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