Tiny Home FAQs
Your Guide to Living Small in Style
Ready to explore the tiny home lifestyle? Consider this your insiders guide.
Your journey to tiny home living should feel simple, seamless, and inspiring. From zoning and build options to customization and lifestyle, this FAQ covers everything you need to know about tiny homes and Amberwood’s models before making the move to living small.
Still have questions? We’re here to help! Reach out today and get the answers you need.
Tiny Home Types
At Amberwood Tiny Homes, we offer three main options depending on how you want to live.
Park Models are 12 feet wide and built for extended stays or full-time living in one place. Because they are 12 feet wide, they can be transported without the need for pilot vehicles—but if width isn’t a concern for you, we can build them up to 16 feet wide for extra space. Park Models are technically classified as RVs, but they look and feel like small homes with residential-style interiors. Most people set them up in RV parks, tiny home villages, or on private land (where allowed). They’re a great choice if you want the comfort of a home without committing to a full foundation build.
RV Models are built for mobility. They are 8.5 feet wide and designed to travel on the road. These are perfect for people who want to move often, whether for work, leisure, or the van life experience. RVs are lighter, easier to tow, and do not usually require permits for short-term parking, but they offer less space and insulation compared to a Park Model or tiny home.
Foundation Builds are tiny homes designed to be permanently placed on a property. They are built here at our facility, then delivered and set onto a prepared site. These homes meet local residential building codes and are considered real property, like any traditional house. They’re great for full-time living, offer better long-term investment potential, and connect to permanent utilities. This option does require zoning approval and building permits but provides the most stability.
Park Models are 12 feet wide and built for extended stays or full-time living in one place. Because they are 12 feet wide, they can be transported without the need for pilot vehicles—but if width isn’t a concern for you, we can build them up to 16 feet wide for extra space. Park Models are technically classified as RVs, but they look and feel like small homes with residential-style interiors. Most people set them up in RV parks, tiny home villages, or on private land (where allowed). They’re a great choice if you want the comfort of a home without committing to a full foundation build.
RV Models are built for mobility. They are 8.5 feet wide and designed to travel on the road. These are perfect for people who want to move often, whether for work, leisure, or the van life experience. RVs are lighter, easier to tow, and do not usually require permits for short-term parking, but they offer less space and insulation compared to a Park Model or tiny home.
Foundation Builds are tiny homes designed to be permanently placed on a property. They are built here at our facility, then delivered and set onto a prepared site. These homes meet local residential building codes and are considered real property, like any traditional house. They’re great for full-time living, offer better long-term investment potential, and connect to permanent utilities. This option does require zoning approval and building permits but provides the most stability.
Foundation builds are the best choice for full-time living. Park Models may also be an option where zoning allows, but not all jurisdictions permit them year-round. RV Models are better for those seeking a flexible, mobile lifestyle.
Not always. Some jurisdictions treat Park Models as permanent homes if connected to utilities, but in many places they remain classified as RVs. Always confirm with local zoning before planning full-time living.
Our standard Park Model Tiny Homes are built to 12 feet wide, which means they can be transported without the need for pilot vehicles. However, if width isn’t a concern for you, we can build them up to 16’ wide to give you even more space.
Yes! Whether you choose an RV, Park Model, or Foundation Build, layouts, finishes, and features can all be customized. Contact us to learn more about the many custom options we have available!
RVs can be towed by heavy-duty vehicles. Park Models are larger and require a truck with enough towing power. While you don’t always need professional movers, many people prefer hiring them for safety and convenience.
Living in a Tiny Home
Yes! With the right insulation, heating, and cooling systems, tiny homes can thrive in any North American climate. Every one of our homes is built for year-round living, fully equipped to handle whatever the weather brings.
Yes. Foundation builds and ADUs often add significant value to a property and can also generate rental income.
Very little! Like any home, regular maintenance of roofing, siding, and utilities keeps it in top shape, but the smaller size means less upkeep overall.
Lower costs, simplified living, smaller environmental footprint, and the flexibility of customizing a home to your exact needs.
Yes, many people use tiny homes as rental units, guest houses, or Airbnb listings. Just be sure to check local zoning and rental regulations.
It can be an adjustment, but many people find it freeing! With smart design and creative storage, you’ll be surprised how comfortable tiny living can be.
Yes! Many families choose tiny homes and customize them with bunk beds, lofts, and multi-use spaces. It’s all about smart design.
Well-built tiny homes can hold value, especially when kept in good condition. Like any home, location and demand also play a role.
Tiny homes can connect to traditional water, power, and sewer systems—or be set up for off-grid living with solar, rainwater, and composting options.
Customization & Upgrades
Yes! Every model can be fully customized—layouts, finishes, appliances, energy systems, and even structural features can be tailored to you. We’d love to chat with you about the options we have available and discuss how we can make your dream tiny home a reality. Get in touch today!
Absolutely. From quartz countertops to spa-style bathrooms and custom woodwork, you can choose premium upgrades to make your home feel truly one-of-a-kind.
Yes! You can start with one of our existing models and adjust it, or we can create a fully custom design from the ground up.
Absolutely! We love working closely with our clients through the design process to ensure your home fits your lifestyle perfectly.
We can integrate smart lighting, climate control, and security features so your tiny home is as modern and connected as you’d like.
Secondary Residence & ADUs
An Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is a small, fully self-contained home located on the same property as a primary residence. ADUs typically include a kitchen, bathroom, sleeping area, and separate entrance, making them perfect for guests, family members, or long-term living. With more people searching for “backyard suites,” “secondary dwellings,” and “ADU housing options,” these compact homes have become a popular way to add flexible living space without major renovations.
Yes! Tiny homes are one of the most popular choices for homeowners looking for an affordable, efficient secondary residence or additional living space. They work beautifully as backyard rental units, multi-generational living spaces, and private guest suites. Because tiny homes are move-in ready and designed to fit small lots, they’re often the top choice for those looking for the best ADU for small yards. They offer comfort, flexibility, and long-term value—all in a compact footprint! Get in touch with us today to learn more about tiny home ADU options!
Tiny home ADUs are incredibly flexible. You can use one as a private guest suite, a rental unit, a comfortable space for aging parents, or even as a quiet studio or office. Because they include everything you need—kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping space—they offer independence and comfort while still keeping loved ones close by. It’s a warm, welcoming way to add more living space without renovating your main home!
A tiny home ADU is one of the simplest and most cost-effective ways to create more living space. Instead of dealing with months of construction, noise, and disruption, you can add a finished home that’s ready to enjoy. Tiny home ADUs often increase property value, offer rental income potential, and provide long-term flexibility—all without the stress of a major renovation. It’s a practical upgrade that feels good right away!
Most tiny homes are designed with compact, clever footprints that work beautifully on standard residential lots. People often search for “small ADU floor plans” or “ADUs for narrow yards,” and tiny homes are a top match. If you’re unsure how much space you need or what size would work best, we can help you find a tiny home that will fit in your backyard!
Zoning and bylaws vary by location, but many municipalities are opening the door to ADUs and backyard suites. Searches like “Are tiny homes legal in my backyard?” and “ADU rules near me” are becoming more common—and in many cases, the answer is yes! It’s always best to check your local regulations, and we can point you toward helpful resources to get started.
Many homeowners add a tiny home ADU specifically for rental income! If your bylaws allow long-term rentals, a backyard tiny home can be an excellent way to generate steady monthly revenue. Searches for “best ADU for rental income” and “affordable backyard rentals” are on the rise—and tiny homes are quickly becoming one of the most popular options.
Yes—many cities and provinces offer financial incentives, grants, and tax programs that support the development of tiny home ADUs and secondary suites! Homeowners searching for “ADU grants near me,” “tiny home funding programs,” or “government incentives for secondary suites” will find several active programs across Canada.
In Alberta, the Town of Jasper’s Accessory Dwelling Unit Incentive Program offers financial support for building code-compliant ADUs. Saskatchewan also provides funding through the Saskatchewan Secondary Suite Incentive Grant Program, which helps offset construction costs for eligible homeowners. In addition, Medicine Hat offers a Residential Tax Exemption Program that can apply to qualifying secondary units.
These incentive programs make it even more affordable to add a tiny home ADU to your property, whether your goal is rental income, multigenerational living, or creating additional flexible space. If you’re planning a tiny home ADU, it’s worth checking your local municipality—you may qualify for helpful financial support!
In Alberta, the Town of Jasper’s Accessory Dwelling Unit Incentive Program offers financial support for building code-compliant ADUs. Saskatchewan also provides funding through the Saskatchewan Secondary Suite Incentive Grant Program, which helps offset construction costs for eligible homeowners. In addition, Medicine Hat offers a Residential Tax Exemption Program that can apply to qualifying secondary units.
These incentive programs make it even more affordable to add a tiny home ADU to your property, whether your goal is rental income, multigenerational living, or creating additional flexible space. If you’re planning a tiny home ADU, it’s worth checking your local municipality—you may qualify for helpful financial support!
Foundation Builds
A foundation build is a permanent structure on your land, connected to utilities like any regular home. An RV Model is built on wheels, giving you the flexibility to move it. Both can be customized inside and out—the difference is whether you want mobility or permanence.
A foundation build is considered a permanent dwelling. Park Models may also be considered permanent housing in some jurisdictions, but you’ll need local government approval for zoning and utilities.
Yes! Any of our models can be converted into a foundation build, which means you can
enjoy all the benefits of a tiny home while “putting down roots” in a permanent location.
It’s a great choice if you’re looking for stability and want your tiny home to feel just like a
traditional house.
enjoy all the benefits of a tiny home while “putting down roots” in a permanent location.
It’s a great choice if you’re looking for stability and want your tiny home to feel just like a
traditional house.
Foundation builds are secured just like traditional houses, with bolts and footings connecting the framing to the foundation. Crawl spaces are the preferred method, but screw piles can be an option. Homes on wheels can be anchored using tie-downs for stability in all weather.
Delivery
Tiny homes are delivered by truck or professional haulers. RVs can sometimes be towed by the owner, while Park Models and larger builds are often transported by specialized movers—but if you have the right truck, you may be able to move a Park Model yourself.
Yes, we deliver anywhere in North America!
Delivery costs vary based on distance, site access, and the size of your home. Contact us today for a personalized estimate and specific pricing tailored to your location and model.
Yes. The site should be level, accessible, and prepared with hookups (water, sewer, power) if required. Foundation builds require a prepared crawl space or foundation before the home arrives.
Homes on wheels are secured using tie-down systems. Foundation builds are anchored permanently with bolts and footings.
Yes! We can provide setup support to ensure your home is safely installed, leveled, and ready for living.
Warranty
Every Amberwood tiny home comes with a 1-year builder warranty that covers defects and deficiencies in materials and workmanship. It’s our way of making sure you can move in with confidence and peace of mind.
We stand behind every home we build. If an issue ever comes up related to our construction or materials, just let us know — we’ll make it right. Amberwood was built on a foundation of quality craftsmanship and genuine customer care, and that commitment doesn’t end at move-in. From your first walk-through to years down the road, we take pride in ensuring you’re completely satisfied with your Amberwood home.
We stand behind every home we build. If an issue ever comes up related to our construction or materials, just let us know — we’ll make it right. Amberwood was built on a foundation of quality craftsmanship and genuine customer care, and that commitment doesn’t end at move-in. From your first walk-through to years down the road, we take pride in ensuring you’re completely satisfied with your Amberwood home.
It does. Our Park Models and RVs include a 1-year builder warranty, while foundation-built homes are also covered through the Alberta New Home Warranty Program as required by the province. Each type of home is protected appropriately for how it’s built and used.
Not exactly. Appliances, fixtures, and other materials come with their own manufacturer warranties, which are separate from the builder warranty. Coverage details vary depending on the brand and product.
Manufacturer warranties can range anywhere from one year to limited lifetime coverage, depending on the product and supplier. Your design consultant can help clarify what’s included with the specific products in your build.
Yes! Many of our suppliers offer extended warranty options on their products. Our sales and design team can walk you through what’s available and help you decide if any added coverage makes sense for your home.
Building Process
Timelines depend on the type of build:
RV & Park Models: Trailer production typically takes 6–8 weeks. Once the trailer is ready, the build itself takes about 4 months.
Foundation Builds: Usually completed in 4–5 months depending on size, without trailer wait times.
RV & Park Models: Trailer production typically takes 6–8 weeks. Once the trailer is ready, the build itself takes about 4 months.
Foundation Builds: Usually completed in 4–5 months depending on size, without trailer wait times.
Yes. Foundation builds meet residential codes, Park Models follow ANSI standards, and RVs are built to RVIA certification.
Yes! We offer tours of available models at our Showroom in Bow Island, Alberta, so you can see the quality and layout in person. Contact us to schedule a tour!
We use high-quality, durable materials designed for comfort, energy efficiency, and long-lasting performance. From framing to finishes, every detail is chosen with care.
Yes. Options like solar power, composting toilets, and rainwater collection can make your tiny home fully off-grid and self-sufficient.
We use high-performance insulation designed for energy efficiency, so your home stays warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
Yes, tiny homes naturally use fewer resources thanks to their size. We also offer sustainable materials and energy-efficient options to further reduce your footprint.
Financing & Insurance
Sometimes! Foundation builds often qualify for traditional mortgages, while Park Models and RV Models usually require RV loans or personal loans. It depends on your lender and the type of home you choose.
We don’t provide in-house financing, but we can connect you with trusted financing partners who specialize in tiny homes and alternative housing.
Yes, tiny homes can be insured! Foundation builds are insured like traditional homes, while Park Models and RVs usually require RV or specialty mobile home coverage.
Yes. Since foundation builds are classified as permanent residences, lenders usually view them more favourably.
Financing can include RV loans, manufactured home loans, personal loans, or traditional mortgages (for foundation builds). Your options depend on your location and whether your home is mobile, a park model, or on a foundation.
Sometimes! Depending on your province or state, energy-efficient builds or ADUs
(Accessory Dwelling Units) may qualify for tax breaks, rebates, or grants.
(Accessory Dwelling Units) may qualify for tax breaks, rebates, or grants.
Zoning & Legal Use
Yes, but rules vary by municipality. Some areas allow tiny homes as ADUs or foundation builds, while others only allow them in RV parks or rural areas. Always check with your local planning office first.
Yes! Foundation builds are treated as full-time residences. Park Models may also be lived in full-time where permitted, but rules vary by jurisdiction. RV Models can be lived in year-round in some RV parks or rural areas.
Yes. Tiny homes make excellent ADUs for family, rental income, or guest housing. Local zoning rules will determine if it must be on a foundation or if a wheeled model is allowed.
Options include private land (if zoning allows), RV parks, tiny home communities, and rural properties. Foundation builds are the most flexible for urban and suburban lots.
Yes. Foundation builds require traditional building permits. Park Models and RVs may require zoning or occupancy permits depending on the city.
In many places, yes! But zoning and building codes are different everywhere. Some
municipalities allow tiny homes on private land, while others require them to be placed in approved communities.
municipalities allow tiny homes on private land, while others require them to be placed in approved communities.
Yes, most RV parks accept RV-certified or park model tiny homes. Foundation builds, however, can’t go into RV parks.
Rules vary widely. Some areas have minimum square footage requirements, while
others cap the size of tiny homes on wheels. We can design your home to fit within your local regulations.
others cap the size of tiny homes on wheels. We can design your home to fit within your local regulations.
Yes, most areas require permits for placement and utility hookups. The requirements depend on whether your home is registered as an RV, a park model, or an ADU.
