Best Friends Build $160K Tiny Home ‘Town’ for Retirement, Transition to New Chapter

By Marianne Garvey, U.S. Real Estate Reporter
Published: April 1, 2025

Four couples from Texas built a small town of tiny houses. They chose a spot beside the Llano River, near Austin. They spent about $160,000 on this project. Their goal was to live simply, use eco-friendly ways, and keep close their long-held bonds.

Unique Beginnings and Design

In 2016, the couples pooled their money. Each couple put in $40,000. This sum built four little houses of roughly 400 square feet and one larger house for everyone. Local architect Matt Garcia drew the plans. He kept the cost low and used nature-friendly ideas.

Garcia recalled, "I thought they were joking at first. Then they said, ‘We bought a property and we will do it.’" At that time, building costs stayed low. This helped them build their dream without heavy expenses.

The cabins have slanted roofs that catch rainwater. They use a steel cover to fight the Texas heat. Their plywood walls prove strong. Each house fits a queen-size bed, a couch, a bathroom, and a snug area for rest.

Community Living and Shared Spaces

The community includes a main house of 1,500 square feet. This building holds a modern kitchen with new tools and served as a dining room for the group. The property also has a pool, a deck, and neat green yards. These areas worked well for warm-day gatherings and quiet moments.

A changed barn gives space for movie nights, art sessions, or reading time. Garcia added that while every house followed a simple plan, each one got special tile colors and decor that matched the owners.

An Unexpected Twist

In 2024, the couples sold the compound for $3 million. An investor wanted to turn the tiny houses into rental units. The choice brought a sweet profit to the group. They said their close bond stayed intact.

Garcia said he was surprised to see the dream come true. "Many have asked how to do such projects, yet few act on them," he added.

The Future of Tiny Living

This project fits a growing trend in the United States. Tiny homes gain favor as house prices and loan costs rise. Many now try lower-cost housing. The couples feel positive as they end this project and look to new paths after their success.

The tiny home idea grows strong while new building methods appear. The couple’s story shows how friendship and smart choices can shape one’s life. They hope their work may guide others who choose simple living and close community ties.

For More Information:

Keep up with trends in housing and tiny home living. Community projects like this continue to change neighborhoods across the U.S.

[highlight=transparent]Looking for more tiny house inspiration? Check out this curated list of resources from River Tiny Houses: [/highlight]

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