Welcome to Tiny Homes, an idea that is more popular with minimalists than with neighborhood associations and zoning boards. We'll point out the fun parts. You'll have to check out the logistics and legalities - and maybe hire a plumber.
A little place beside a rushing stream - sounds idyllic. If you'd bought this property in 2012 it only would've cost $26,000; now, though, the price has climbed to $59,950. That's still only a five digit price. Waterfront, 0.41 acres, close to skiing, close to the highway but the noise is probably masked by the river, this could be good; as long as you are comfortable in 396 square feet with the bedroom and the kitchen and everything except the bathroom being in the same room.
So about that bathroom. The listing mentions a sewer, and the number of baths as "--", and the fact that there's no water to the cabin. Maybe all of the plumbing is outside, in another building. Drippy faucets won't keep you awake. Ah, but look beside the refrigerator and notice that there's at least a water cooler.
A quaint cabin can be a style statement or a demonstration of pragmatism. Minimalists can appreciate an open space uncluttered by stuff. Outdoors types can appreciate being within a hike of Lake Serene and Mount Index, and just a bit more than a half hour from Stevens Pass and skiing. Recluses can appreciate being more than 10 miles from the nearest grocery. Localvores can appreciate fresh fish, game nearby, and mushrooms.
Acreage opens opportunities, so a 396 square foot cabin on 0.41 acres leaves a lot of room for privacy or projects. The cabin sits on a small bluff above the Skykomish River, which is handy when the waters rise. The bank isn't too steep, though; at least there's something that looks like a path down to the shore.
Any place that provides a sanctuary, even without an amenity or two, has provided something valuable. Is a bit of peace and quiet worth a bit less than $60,000? And, as for that bathroom, there must be something because the place has been there since 1961.
· 52831 S Riverside Rd, Gold Bar [Zillow]
· Stevens Pass [SP]
· All Tiny Homes coverage [CS]
Written by Tom Trimbath