Tiny Home Theft: How Bold Thieves Are Stealing Entire Houses
BOLD THIEVES ARE TARGETING TINY HOMES — BY STEALING THE ENTIRE HOUSE
Source: New York Post
Overview of Tiny Home Thefts
Recent Incidents
- In Sapulpa, Oklahoma, Monica Badzinski discovered her tiny home stolen from her lot while she was displaced due to safety concerns.
- Badzinski’s theft was caught on video, showing thieves using a vehicle to hitch and remove the home illicitly.
- The theft of tiny homes appears to be increasing, with several reported cases across the nation.
Notable thefts and recoveries
- The Bennett family lost their custom-built tiny home while celebrating a birthday in Utah, but were able to locate it using their dog’s GPS collar.
- Another family in Washington had a tiny home taken from secure storage but it was recovered shortly after.
Why Tiny Living is Gaining Popularity
Market Growth
- The global tiny-home market is projected to expand from $5.61 billion to $7.31 billion by 2031.
- 73% of survey respondents expressed a preference for tiny living, citing affordability and flexibility.
Homeowner Challenges
- Potential buyers must navigate zoning laws and the costs associated with land ownership.
- Financing can be difficult due to mortgage lenders' hesitations regarding smaller homes.
How to Protect Your Tiny Home
Security Measures
- Install wheel locks and trailer receiver locks to deter theft.
- Be mindful of where and when to park to avoid fines or towing.
Remote Living Concerns
- Homeowners living on the road should be aware of local parking regulations.
- Proper insurance and documentation are essential for those who want to travel with tiny homes.
