Interview with Stefanie Mortenson: How Moving to a Tiny Home Changed My Life

Stefanie Mortenson, a 53-year-old HR director, made a life-changing decision during the COVID-19 pandemic. Tired of the noise and high cost of living in Virginia, she packed up her belongings and moved to a tiny home near Tampa, Florida in May.

Her new 396-square-foot dwelling, which cost her $159,000, has become a sanctuary for Mortenson. With two lofts, a bathroom, a kitchen, a living room, and an outdoor deck, she feels like she has more space than she did in her 650-square-foot Virginia apartment. The neighborhood also offers amenities like a pool, park, and additional storage.

Mortenson’s decision to downsize and embrace minimalism has been liberating. She sold most of her furniture before the move and has been slowly getting rid of excess belongings. The furniture she has now serves dual purposes, maximizing the space in her tiny home.

Despite the initial challenges of adjusting to a smaller living space, Mortenson has found peace and tranquility in her new community. Surrounded by trees and Spanish moss, she enjoys the calming environment and the sense of community in her upscale tiny home neighborhood.

Not only has Mortenson found emotional fulfillment in her new home, but she has also experienced financial benefits. The electricity-efficient unit has led to significant savings on her utility bills, and she anticipates that her home will be paid off before she retires.

Looking towards the future, Mortenson envisions retiring in her tiny home and staying in the community for the long haul. While she may face challenges with age, such as navigating the stairs in her lofted home, Mortenson is determined to make her tiny home a permanent part of her retirement plans.