What Are THOWs?

Most people know what a Tiny Homes is, but when they hear THOW, it can feel a little confusing. In this blog, we want to help you understand a THOW. How can you move it? If they are a good investment and a plethora of other questions. So, if you have questions about Tiny Homes on Wheels or THOW, this blog is for you. 

What is a Tiny Home On Wheels?

A tiny home on wheels or a THOW is a home that is built on a trailer that has wheels. Thus, the abbreviation stands for T.H.O.W. At Zook Cabins, our Park Model Tiny homes are all considered Tiny Homes On Wheels. However, the ways they can be transported will vary depending on the size, but more on that later. 

How Big Can A Tiny Home On Wheels Be?

The total square footage of a tiny home on wheels can not exceed 400 square feet. However, there is a bit of variation with that. When we say 400 square feet, that does not include loft spaces. For example, our Cascade, Pinecrest, and Aspen would have slightly more square footage. This means that the total square footage on the inside may feel larger. 

How Much Do Tiny Homes On Wheels Cost?

Tiny homes on wheels vary in price from around $50,000 and can cost even more. For example, our Nook Studio tiny home on wheels starts right around $50,000 (depending on your delivery location). On the other hand, there are tiny homes that are far larger and can, in turn, cost more money. 

Can I Move My Tiny Home On Wheels?

Yes and no. This all depends on the size of your tiny home and your driving ability. If you have a smaller, tiny home no greater than 8.5 feet wide, you should be able to move your tiny house on your own with a pickup truck. However, be sure to check the towing capacity of your vehicle to ensure that it can handle pulling your tiny home on wheels. For example, our Nook Family and Nook Studio could be moved with a large pickup truck (at least a dually 3500). However, we recommend that you do your research if you plan to move your tiny home on wheels.

Can I live Full Time In my Tiny Home On Wheels?

In some places, you can live in your THOW full-time. However, the laws on this vary from state to state. We know that isn’t very clear, so to help you understand the rules and the laws nationwide, we have created some guidelines for all the continental states in the US. Look at the chart below, find the area you want to learn more about, and let the fun begin. 

Should My Tiny Home On Wheels Be Certified?

Yes. When you want to purchase a THOW, ensure it is certified. If your tiny home is not certified, you may have difficulty getting insurance or even using your little house in the way that you intended. So, while there may be options to purchase a non-certified THOW, we do not recommend buying one without an RVIA or NOAH certification.  If you want to know more about the different certification check out our blog where we discuss RVIA vs NOAH tiny homes.

What Are The Tiny Home On Wheels Certifications?

There are two standard THOW certifications. The first is RVIA. This governing body oversees builds like campers or other RVs. The other is NOAH, which stands for National Organization of Alternative Housing. This organization was created to specifically certify tiny homes and other alternative housing options.

Is RVIA or NOAH a Better Tiny Home Certification?

Neither RVIA nor NOAH certification is ‘better” than the other. However, RVIA tends to be more common in the THOW space. All THOWS at Zook Cabins are RVIA-certified. This means that financing and insurance would be similar to that of an RV.

Where Can I Take My THOW?

You can take your THOW anywhere. That is, of course, anywhere where delivery or drivability is possible. If you have a larger THOW, you may be limited to where you can take your tiny home compared to someone else with a smaller one that can be pulled by a pickup truck.

Are Tiny Homes On Wheels A Good Investment?

Yes. THOWs are an excellent investment, especially for those wanting to invest in the short-term rental space. For instance, Zook Cabins partnered with WYLD Hospitality to create an excellent opportunity called RevShare. 

Are Tiny Homes On Wheels Allowed At Campgrounds?

Many times, yes. Many campgrounds welcome THOWs so long as they can fit in the spots that the campground has to offer. In fact, some campgrounds will even let you keep your THOW as a seasonal vacation home, meaning you can leave your THOW parked there year-round and use it during the time of year that you would like. Above is Somerset Resort which is a campground that utilized Zook CAbins and Wyld Hospitalaities RevShare Model

Can Tiny Homes On Wheels Be Financed?

Yes. THOW can oftentimes be financed. Since THOWs can be certified as RVs, they are usually eligible for the same financing available to those purchasing an RV.

Does My Tiny Home Need To Stay On Wheels?

Yes. Your THOW must stay on the wheels that come on. Since they are viewed as RVs, this designation means that they must remain towable. 

Where can I buy a tiny home on wheels?

Zook Cabins has over 10 models of tiny homes that can be purchased to help you on your tiny home journey. There are also other tiny home builders throughout the nation who can help you find a THOW that fits your design style and budget better. When you are ready to get into a THOW from Zook Cabins, contact us, and we will be happy to help you along the way.

How Tall Can A Tiny Home On Wheels Be?

In most cases, your THOW can not be taller than 13.5 feet. This is because of the clearances of power lines during delivery and the RV standards. In some cases, you may find people who want a tiny home that is taller, allowing for more space in a loft area. However, these tiny homes are often finished on-site, allowing for this kind of size variation 

Are Park Model Homes and Tiny Home On Wheels Are The Same Thing?

Yes. Park model homes and THOWs are the same thing. The only difference may be the overall size. Generally speaking, park model homes are larger than some of the more traditional THOW on the market. However, to meet the qualification of a THOW, all that must be done is ensure that your tiny home is indeed on wheels.

Are Tiny Homes On Wheels Expensive To Maintain?

Generally no. In the first year of having your THOW, you may find the cost is a bit higher than you expected as you gather supplies to finish your tiny home on wheels. However, tiny homes on wheels tend to be more cost-effective and energy-efficient, meaning that the overall operating cost will typically be less than that of operating a traditional home. Check out the video above, which will give you a cost breakdown of how much it costs to run a tiny home as a short-term rental.

Is It Difficult To Set Up A THOW?

Setting up a THOW is relatively easy, especially when you work with Zook cabins. We take care of all the deliveries, allowing you to enjoy your park model home as soon as you have it is set and ready to go. Look at the video above to see how to prepare for a THOW install. 

Can My THOW Be Operated with Solar?

Yes. THOWs often have some solar component to them. At Zook Cabins, we do not currently offer a solar package for any of our THOWs. However, people who bought a THOW from us in the past have added solar to their homes after purchasing it. 

Can I Rent A Tiny Home On Wheels Before I Buy One?

If you want to have your very own tiny home on wheels experience, Zook Cabins has a vast network for THOW (or park models) that you can rent. Head over to our Experience Rentals page and find the park model tiny home you wish to rent and make your booking. Additionally, services like AirBnB and VRBO have opportunities to rent other styles of tiny houses. If you want to have a wonderful vacation at a glamping resort, we recommend Red Run Resort or Somerset Resort.

Conclusion…

Tiny Home on Wheels is a great way to enjoy tiny living. We are excited and ready to help you find the best THOW at Zook Cabins. We offer over 10 tiny homes so that you can create the perfect tiny home experience. So, when you are ready to get started on your tiny home-buying journey, contact us, and we will be happy to help you along the way.