I transformed an old van into my dream home – I pay almost no rent, but I do get hit with surprise bills
A COUPLE reveal how they transformed an old van into their dream home to travel the world in.
Sabrina and Nick, who are currently travelling Mexico in their van, document van life on social media.
But one fan shared the start of the van transformation online, leaving everybody in awe.
The pair’s van was an empty shell to start with but they soon changed it into a light and airy modern home.
The two sofas by the back of the van turned into a double bed and the couple even had fancy heated tiled flooring to make sure it stayed cosy even in the winter.
Also included in their tiny home was a skylight so they can look at the stars as well as an stove top, oven and fridge.
But that’s not all – the couple also had hot water on demand – a luxury mostly unheard of when it came to living in a van as well as a heated outdoor shower.
While the couple seemingly loved van life, they did say it did come with surprises.
In one clip the pair admitted rent was obviously supposed to be free as they lived in a van.
But they still had unexpected ‘rent’ to pay in the way of parking tickets.
“The true cost of van life,” they wrote, adding “At least 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 to the Facebook group, campervanselfbuild, where it went viral with over 260 likes.
People were quick to take to the comments praising the transformation.
One person wrote: “Wow, excellent, well done.”
Another commented: “Very gorgeous.”
“Great conversion,” penned a third.
The rise of tiny homes
By Jonathan Rolande
Property expert Jonathan Rolande told Fabulous: The reason we are seeing more creative ways of finding a home: super-high property prices and rents. Younger people are remaining in the family home later in life to avoid paying high prices and to save for a deposit. With increasingly busy lives, staying within a larger family group makes sense, chores such as gardening and housework can be shared.
Garages are rarely used for their intended purpose as cars are far more reliable and less prone to rust and so are perfectly happy outside. On the other hand, the amount of property space per person has been shrinking – converting a garage can make great sense.
Things to consider. (the boring stuff)
Usually easier than building from scratch but still a lot to do to turn a garage in to a habitable space.
You’ll need to check if you need planning (more likely to be required if the garage is detached).
Building Regulations stipulate many things to make homes safe and secure. Consider
Walls, are they cavity?
Roof height
Windows
How will you get plumbing, electrics and drainage connected
Insulation – it will be cold!
Fire safety
Damp proofing
Also consider if, by converting, you are adding or deducting value from the main home. 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! This is glorious!”
Fabulous will pay for your exclusive stories. Just email: fabulousdigital@the-sun.co.uk and pop EXCLUSIVE in the subject line.