I converted a van into a dream home – the rent is a bargain, but I still get unexpected bills
A COUPLE tells how they converted an old bus into their dream home to travel the world.
Sabrina and Nick, who are currently traveling through Mexico in their van, document life in their van on social media.
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But one fan shared the beginning of the van’s transformation online, much to everyone’s surprise.
The couple’s van was empty shell at first, but they soon transformed it into a light and airy modern home.
The two benches in the back of the bus could be converted into a double bed and the couple had even installed a beautiful heated tiled floor so that it stayed nice and warm even in winter.
Their little house also had a skylight so they could look at the stars. There was also a hob, oven and fridge.
But that’s not all: the couple also had hot water on demand, a luxury unheard of for campers. And then there was a heated outdoor shower.
While the couple loved RV life, they said it also brought surprises.
In one clip, the pair admitted that rent should obviously be free, since they lived in a van.
But they still had to pay an unexpected ‘rent’ in the form of parking fines.
“The real cost of living in a van,” they wrote, adding, “At least the rent is cheap.”
And it’s safe to say it’s a lot cheaper than renting a house, which costs an average of £1,276 a month in England.
The caravan makeover was shared in the Facebook group, campervanzelfbouwwhere it went viral with over 260 likes.
People were quick to respond to the praise for the transformation.
Someone wrote: “Wow, excellent, well done.”
Another commented: “Very beautiful.”
“Amazing conversion,” wrote a third.
The rise of tiny houses
By Jonathan Rolande
Real estate expert Jonathan Rolande told Fabulous: The reason we’re seeing more creative ways to find a home: extremely high house prices and rents. Younger people are staying in their parents’ homes longer to avoid paying high prices and to save for a down payment. With increasingly busy lives, it makes sense to stay within a larger family group, where chores like gardening and housework can be shared.
Garages are rarely used for their intended purpose, as cars are much more reliable and less likely to rust, and can therefore be left outside. On the other hand, the amount of available space per person has decreased – converting a garage can be very useful.
Things to consider. (the boring stuff)
This is usually easier than building it from scratch, but there is still a lot that needs to be done to convert a garage into a living space.
Check if planning is required (this is more likely if the garage is detached).
Building codes dictate many things to make homes safe and secure. Think about
Walls, are they cavity walls?
Roof height
Windows
How do you connect the pipes, electricity and drainage?
Insulation – It’s getting cold!
Fire safety
Moisture protection
Also consider whether you are adding or subtracting value from your primary residence by remodeling. Garages can add value in busy urban areas where parking is limited.
Meanwhile, a fourth said: “It’s beautiful.”
“Probably my favourite so far,” claimed a fifth.
Someone else added: “Oh my goodness! This is amazing!”
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