‘It’s simple living’: Homeowners downsizing for solution to affordable housing crisis

SHERILLS FORD, N.C. — As finding affordable housing becomes more difficult, some are creating unique solutions to save money on where they’re living.

Jane Ryan considers her home to be her little piece of paradise.

“My previous home was 2,800 square-foot, three bedrooms, huge office, and this is 499 square feet,” she said.

Ryan lives in one of about 50 tiny homes in a community in Sherrills Ford. “Tiny Homes of Lake Norman” sits on the northwestern side of the lake in the Lake Norman RV resort.

The picturesque view of the lake is a bonus for tiny homeowner and elementary school teacher Krystina Miele.

“I couldn’t afford anything. The teacher salary is small,” she said.

Miele remembers struggling to find affordable housing near Charlotte. Data from real estate site Zillow shows the average home in Mecklenburg County is worth $387,594.

None of the tiny homes cost more than $180,000. Owners also pay a monthly fee for the resort’s land and amenities.

>> In the video at the top of the page, why the owners of the tiny homes say downsizing has drastically improved their lives.

(WATCH BELOW: Habitat for Humanity of Charlotte hosts meeting to discuss affordable housing crisis)

Habitat for Humanity of Charlotte hosts meeting to discuss affordable housing crisis

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