Congratulations on taking the first step toward a new, innovative, and sustainable way of living! A container home from Pocket-Size Dwellings is more than just a house; it’s a statement about your values and a commitment to a life of freedom and smart design. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire process, from initial research to moving in, ensuring a smooth and successful journey.

Phase 1: The Vision & The Research (Your Homework)

Before you fall in love with a specific model, it’s crucial to lay the groundwork. This phase is all about understanding the practicalities of a container home and how it fits into your life.

1. Define Your Needs and Lifestyle:

• Purpose: Will this be a full-time residence, a weekend getaway cabin, a backyard office, or a rental property (ADU)?
• Size: How many people will live here? Do you need one bedroom or three? Consider the floor plans of our 20-foot, 40-foot, or multi-container models. Our “high cube” containers (9.5 feet tall) offer extra vertical space and are ideal for loft designs.
• Budget: Be realistic about your financial plan. Our prices are transparent, but remember to factor in additional costs like land, site preparation, and utility connections. We recommend setting aside a 15-20% contingency fund for unexpected expenses.

2. Land and Legal Requirements:

• Finding Land: Look for a lot that is accessible for a large truck and crane. Consider the grade and soil type, as a level and stable plot will simplify foundation work.
• Zoning and Permits: This is the most critical step. Contact your local city or county planning department to understand their specific regulations for “container homes,” “modular homes,” or “accessory dwelling units” (ADUs). Ask these key questions:
  • Are container homes allowed in my desired zone (e.g., residential, rural, commercial)?
  • What are the setback requirements (distance from the property line)?
  • What building codes must the home comply with (e.g., International Building Code)?
  • What permits will I need (e.g., building, foundation, utility, occupancy)?
• Utilities: Will your property be on the grid (city water/sewer, electricity) or off-grid (well, septic, solar)? Plan for the installation and connection of these services.

Phase 2: Design & Customization

This is where your vision truly comes to life. Our team is here to guide you through every choice.

1. Explore Our Collections:

• Browse our website to see the range of our models. Each has a detailed description, floor plans, and a gallery of high-quality images. Pay attention to the layout and how the space is used.
• Consider features like open-concept living, sliding glass doors to connect with the outdoors, and strategic window placement to maximize natural light.

2. Customization Options:

• Layout: Decide on the placement of bedrooms, bathrooms, and the kitchen. Would a loft or a rooftop deck be a good fit?
• Finishes: Choose your interior finishes—flooring, countertops, cabinetry, and wall colors. We offer a curated selection of durable and stylish materials.
• Appliances: Select your appliance package. We offer compact, energy-efficient appliances that are perfectly sized for container living.
• Exterior: Personalize the exterior with different colors, materials (e.g., wood or metal siding), and features like a deck or awning.

3. Engineering & Final Design:

• Our engineering team will review and finalize your design to ensure it meets all structural and safety requirements.
• We’ll provide you with detailed plans and specifications, which are essential for your permit applications.

Phase 3: The Purchase & Financing

Securing the funds and finalizing the purchase agreement are next.

1. Understanding Costs:

• Our initial quote will cover the cost of the home itself, including all your selected customizations.
• Remember to budget for other expenses:
  • Land: The cost of the property.
  • Foundation: A local contractor will need to pour a concrete slab or install piers.
  • Site Preparation: Costs for clearing, grading, and utility trenching.
  • Permits and Inspections: Varies by location.
  • Delivery and Installation: We will provide an estimate based on your location and site accessibility.

2. Financing:

• Most banks are still adapting to container homes. While we do not offer in-house financing, here are the most common options our clients use:
  • Traditional Mortgage: Possible if the home is permanently affixed to a foundation and classified as real estate. Talk to a mortgage lender early in the process.
  • Construction Loan: A short-term loan that covers the build process and can then be rolled into a long-term mortgage.
  • Personal Loan: An unsecured loan that can be used to purchase the home and cover associated costs.
  • Cash/Home Equity: Using savings or a home equity line of credit is a common and straightforward option.

Phase 4: Construction, Delivery & Installation

This is when the magic happens!

1. Construction:

• Once your final design is approved and payment terms are met, we begin construction in our climate-controlled facility.
• Our builders use a precise, assembly-line approach to ensure quality and efficiency. You can expect your home to be completed in a fraction of the time of traditional construction.

2. Site Preparation:

• While we build, you will need to prepare your site. This includes:
  • Obtaining all necessary permits.
  • Clearing and leveling the land.
  • Installing the foundation.
  • Preparing for utility connections (water, sewer, electric).

3. Delivery and Placement:

• We will coordinate with a specialized transport company to deliver your finished home on a flatbed truck.
• A crane will be used to lift the home from the truck and place it onto the prepared foundation. This is a swift and exciting part of the process!

4. Final Connections:

• Once the home is in place, a local contractor will make the final connections to your utilities.
• A building inspector will perform a final inspection, and upon approval, you will receive an occupancy permit.

You are now a proud owner of a Pocket-Size Dwelling. Welcome home!