The modern home comes in many strange and striking varieties. One new trend that’s been turning heads and appealing heavily to DIYers everywhere is known as the container home. In other words, homes constructed fully out of shipping containers. That’s right! And although it may sound strange, many homeowners are taking those same steel-based boxes used to transport goods across the ocean and making them bases for their own prefabricated house, or the start of an ambitious DIY project.

Why Are People Choosing to Live in Shipping Containers?
Container homes seem, in part, to appeal to the same sort of people interested in tiny homes. For some, having a more direct involvement in the construction of their home gives them a stronger sense of ownership and satisfaction over their property. For others, the low costs and quick construction are enough of a draw for them to opt into this style. People also love the style of these modular homes, including the modern vibe. With that said, much like any other type of dwelling, container homes aren’t without their drawbacks.

What Are Some Concerns with Container Homes?
Many container home advocates point out the red tape that can often be a hurdle for homeowners looking to DIY or purchase their own shipping container house, and some areas pose unique restrictions that limit these types of properties.

Also, shipping containers weren’t designed with residential occupancy in mind, so when doors or windows are cut into the steel structure, they become compromised, requiring new and expensive reinforcements as well as renewed sealing to protect from water intrusion. Other problems arise due to the difficulty of installing insulation and basic appliances. Most shipping containers are limited strictly to around eight feet in height, which creates further limitations for adding necessary home systems.

Container Homes: A Passing Trend?
Problems with container homes might be resolved in time through creative innovations or new technologies, but for now, most seem to think these homes will be limited in their popularity, especially in areas where weather varies widely. Overall, container homes show how the real estate market is constantly evolving and is inhabited by some of the most creative minds out there!

What's pictured here? 

Yikes! This probably goes without saying, but flames should never be coming out of an HVAC unit. We have here a fire hazard, incorrect venting, carbon monoxide risk, and a burner issue all in one. This HVAC needs shut off, evaluated, and, more than likely, replaced by a qualified professional before the home can be safely lived in. 

Buying a home is a huge milestone, but it’s a pricey undertaking as well. That’s why many first-time homebuyers consider an “as-is” fixer-upper home to renovate and repair themselves. If you’re thinking of going the fixer-upper route, consider the following before you sign your name on the dotted line.

Prepare
Fixer-uppers can quickly become money pits no matter how inexpensive they appear to be at first. If you plan to play for renovations out-of-pocket, you still need a mortgage to purchase the house. For any mortgage loan, fixer-upper or otherwise, a lender will examine your credit. If you have had any hiccups in the past, you should clear them up ahead of time. Then you will need a down payment for your home, cash for renovations, and potentially a place to live while repairs are completed.

If you need to roll your renovations into the mortgage, there are loans especially designed for this purpose, but detailed cost estimates must be included. These estimates should consider all foreseeable expenses, including fees, inspections, and permits.

Hire Help
Once you have a particular property in mind, connect with an expert to walk through the home to see what kind of repairs will need to be completed. A professional can tell you if the home fits your budget and if it’s worth buying in the long run. Before you decide to purchase your fixer-upper, you’ll also need to have an inspection completed in order to avoid unforeseen problems.

Prioritize Projects
Once you purchase your fixer-upper home, determine which projects need to be completed first. Make a list to figure out what needs to be repaired right away and what can wait. Once you’ve prioritized projects, you can make a timeline that works with your budget. Many cosmetic home repairs are easy for homeowners to DIY, including repainting walls, replacing doors, and refinishing floors. When handling more intensive projects like plumbing, electrical, or structural problems, you should hire a professional.

A fixer-upper can be an invaluable investment. Do your research and plan carefully. With smart strategies, you can turn a fixer-upper into your dream home.