It’s almost automatic for many people to think that decent living is all about buying your own home or at least living in an apartment or flat. Forget the 30-year mortgage. But what most of them miss are the possibilities of still fulfilling a career or any creative pursuit while cuddled in nontraditional living arrangements.
Here, we have compiled some of the cheapest alternative housing options you can explore so you can live your life to the fullest without being harnessed by the shackles of convention.
Purchase abandoned properties
It’s very nontraditional but there is a rapidly popularizing trend nowadays about buying old buildings and renovating them into custom-built work or living spaces. They’re usually relatively cheap compared to listed properties and may make for an interesting abode once successfully rehabilitated.
Become a college dorm’s resident director
Dorm overseers and directors get to have a place of their own within the dorms. Aside from getting work, you also get a space for yourself. A strange living setup for those who are used to the comforts of traditional housing, but definitely an interesting one for those who want to experience the unique living situation. Worth exploring for individuals who miss their old college days and those who have looked everywhere but can’t find a cheaper housing option.
Live in a boat
Just like a house, but cheaper, and floating. Also mobile. If you love the sea, want some challenge, or tired of the old living setup, you can invest in a boathouse and practically live on the sea. Of course, you may have to consider some fees for boat repair, fuel, and mooring, among others. Check your finances first if you will be able to afford the cost of maintenance.
Work in a university
Some professionals are offered living spaces within the universities they work for. This is great if you don’t want to commute to work, or want to be near the university while doing your tenure.
Rent a hotel room
If you don’t want to hassle yourself with maintenance, find rent prices too high, or most definitely cannot afford a mortgage, rent a hotel room! No, not all hotels are created equal and some are definitely cheaper than others, decent utilities and all. There are hotel rooms with rates that sum up to less than the average rent (fluctuates by area) per month. If you can find one, you have found your place!
Live the #vanlife
You have seen those Instagram photos and swooned over those sunset shots. It’s a lifestyle as much as it is a trend. If you want to get on the road, follow your wanderlust, and live the hashtag, buy an RV, and get yourself rolling. The average cost of campervans nowadays is about a quarter of the average home price in the US. No mortgage, more freedom. But of course, before you leave, make sure the life is for you.
Get creative with shipping containers
You can buy a shipping container straight from Amazon. Yes, I’m not kidding. And then you can work out your creative powers and transform this gargantuan of a shipping load into your custom home. It’s a thing, you can look it up. The unusual living space is durable and can decently house you and your pets. Plus, it costs way less than traditional housing.
Take advantage of your career perks
Jobs that require frequent transfer may offer their employees free accommodations to compensate for the risk and hassle of the work. Although it can get tiring, for some, it is like hitting two birds with one stone: travel and a home!