Best Friends Create a $160K Tiny Home Community in Texas, but a Twist Awaits

04 April 2025 | By Marianne Garvey, U.S. Real Estate Reporter

Four Texas couples planned a small home community to share their retirements. Their strong bond and clear vision drove them. They pooled funds and spent $160,000 to build what they named the "Llano Exit Strategy." It sits by the Llano River near Austin. Then, they sold the compound for $3 million. The change came as a surprise.

A Shared Dream

Their plan started in 2016. They aimed to live simply, save on waste, and stay near each other. They hired Matt Garcia, a local architect, to build four small homes and one big shared house. In an interview, Garcia said, "They aimed to save money. Prices were lower then, and we could build cheaply." Each 400-square-foot home cost about $40,000. The couples moved in that same year.

Sustainable Living

The homes were built to be kind to nature. Each cabin has a slanted roof that collects rain, a steel exterior that cools the space, and strong plywood walls. Inside each home is a queen bed, a couch, a bathroom, and a small snug area for rest. Garcia said all the homes followed the same plan. Still, different tiles and furniture set them apart. He was surprised and happy to finish the project. Many had tried but did not finish.

A New Chapter

More people soon noticed the compound. The couples then met a surprising, good offer. In 2024, a buyer offered $3 million. He planned to change the property into a group of Airbnbs. The sale gave the couples a large profit. It shows that people want new places to stay in quiet spots.

Selling brought mixed feelings. But the couples stay friends. They share warm memories of their time together. The big house featured a modern kitchen built for cooking together. It had top appliances and a warm dining room. They also built a barn for movie nights and art. A pool lay near neat gardens.

Tiny Homes on the Rise

Tiny homes are popular in the United States now. High mortgage rates and steep prices push many toward small houses. Experts say small houses, granny flats, and guesthouses are a good budget choice. Local resident Jodie Zipp led the search for land. She said the Llano River spot looks good and gives room for fun like kayaking, fishing, and hiking in the Texas Hill Country.

The couples enjoy their win. They now look ahead to new days. Garcia said, "I am not sure on their next steps. A $3 million offer is hard to refuse." Their tale of strong bonds and smart work can inspire many. It shows what sharing space and smart homes can do.

Conclusion

These Texas couples took a bold step into small home life. Their work shows smart ideas and cooperation. Even as they start new plans beyond the Llano Exit Strategy, their work shows how friends build community, care for nature, and earn great rewards.

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