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Couple Builds 37 M² House in Their Backyard in Texas, Completes Construction in Eight Weeks and Reduces Cost from US$ 97,000 to About US$ 33,000 by Undertaking Much of the Project Themselves
In the fall of 2025, American Yeli Heidecker and her husband constructedd a tiny house of about 37 m² in the family’s backyard in central Texas, completing the construction in eight weeks and reducing the cost to approximately US$ 33,000.
Decision to Build the Tiny House Came After Mother Moved to the Property
The construction of the tiny house was planned after Heidecker’s mother moved to the family property in 2024, following some health issues. At the time, she began living in a trailer set up on the land.
While she was happy to live near family, her mother still valued having her own space. According to Heidecker, independence was an important aspect for her.
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Over time, the couple realized that the trailer might not represent a permanent solution.
After completing their own residence in March 2025, they began planning a more permanent space.
The family’s main house was built in the barndominium style, a type of residence inspired by barns. The design for the new tiny house was intended to maintain visual similarities with this structure.
Initial Budgets Reached US$ 97,000
Before starting the work, the couple sought budgets from contractors to evaluate the cost of a small residence on the property.
One quote for a structure of about 20 by 30 feet reached US$ 97,000 ready for use. Another proposal, for a smaller house of 20 by 15 feet, was estimated at around US$ 63,000.
Given the amounts presented, the couple decided to undertake much of the construction of the tiny house by themselves.
Neither of them had professional experience in construction. Heidecker’s husband works as a pilot and had only brief experience with construction early in his career when he participated in building a small house made from a container.
Without in-depth technical knowledge, they began researching each stage of the construction process.
Construction Started in September 2025
The construction of the tiny house began in September 2025. During the same period, Heidecker’s mother traveled to Mexico for about six weeks to visit family.
The temporary absence gave the couple time to make significant progress on the project before her return.
They designed the house layout themselves to ensure the space met her mother’s needs. Even while doing much of the work themselves, they chose to hire professionals for some stages considered more complex.
A team was responsible for the external structure and laying the foundation. Electricians were also hired to carry out the electrical installation, ensuring safety in the system.
All other work on the tiny house was done by the couple themselves.
Intense Routine Marked the Construction
During the construction period, the routine was described as intense. The husband worked as a pilot and Heidecker took care of the house and the couple’s four children.
The children ranged in age from five months to seven years, which limited the time available for work on the project.
When he returned from work, they went straight to the construction of the tiny house. During the day, Heidecker also had to balance caring for the children with the tasks of the project.
This period occurred while her mother was away from the property, which meant less support in the family’s daily activities.
Tiny House Was Completed in November 2025
After about eight weeks of work – two longer than initially expected – the tiny house was finished in November 2025.
The residence was designed to resemble a scaled-down version of the family’s main house. The property features a black roof, dark structure, and white walls.
The interior was organized in an open concept. Right at the entrance are the living room, kitchen, and laundry area integrated.
At the back of the tiny house is the bedroom, while the bathroom is located next to it.
Despite the limited square footage, the kitchen was equipped with full-size appliances, including an oven, stove, and refrigerator.
The space also features a solid wood island, wooden cabinets, and a washer and dryer.
The bedroom accommodates a queen-size bed, along with a built-in closet and space for a dresser.
When her mother returned from Mexico in November 2025, she was able to move into the new residence. At that time, the bathroom was still not fully completed and the shower would be finished later.
Estimated Savings Was US$ 30,000
The total cost of the tiny house was about US$ 33,000, including materials, structure, and insulation.
Compared to the initial budgets presented by contractors – which reached US$ 97,000 – the couple estimates they saved approximately US$ 30,000.
Much of this reduction occurred because they themselves undertook much of the necessary labor for the construction.
To further reduce costs, the materials were primarily purchased from a chain of building supply stores, often taking advantage of promotions and discounts on larger purchases.
Even noting that they would make minor adjustments if they were to repeat the project, Heidecker believes the outcome of the tiny house provided benefits for the entire family.
Aside from offering a permanent space for her mother, the proximity strengthened the bond between generations.
According to her, the children often cross the backyard to spend time or sleep at their grandmother’s house, something that has become part of the family routine.
With information from Business Insider.
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