Tiny homes help low-income families onto property ladder

A Detroit-based social services agency is constructing a neighbourhood of 'tiny homes' in a bid to help local low-income families become homeowners.

The project aims to build 25 houses ranging from 250 to 400 square feet in size, each equipped with a bed, dining area and sofa, as well as a range of cooking and cleaning appliances. Each has its own unique style, and can be constructed in around five weeks at a cost of around $45,000 (£35,000). Though the homes are small, they are built with high ceilings and allow for plenty of light, creating a simple but pleasant living space.

Residents pay $1 per month per square foot, making monthly payments affordable and allowing them to become owners in as little as seven years. Cass Community Social Services is the group managing the project, and their Executive Director Rev. Faith Fowler explains the opportunity that a tiny home can offer a low-income family:

"Once they own this home it will be worth $40-50 thousand dollars. Now they can get a traditional loan. They can sell it and buy something else. They can leave something for their children generationally so that it really changes their situation."

Image credit: Tanya Moutzalias