Tiny home ownership among fresh graduates

The rising cost of housing in Malaysia has made homeownership increasingly unattainable, particularly for fresh graduates and young adults who face low wages and high property prices. Urbanisation has further exacerbated the demand for affordable housing in cities like Kuala Lumpur and Selangor, where land costs are prohibitive. The Tiny House Movement (THM), which promotes compact, minimalist living spaces ranging from 100 to 600 square feet, has emerged as a potential solution to this crisis. THM aligns with the growing trend of one-person households (OPHs), which now account for 12% of Malaysian households. Despite its potential, THM faces significant challenges, including limited awareness, lack of government support, and reluctance from financial institutions to provide loans for tiny houses due to their perceived low resale value. This study explores the criteria influencing fresh graduates' adoption of THM, including structural design, economic affordability, environmental sustainability, and social sustainability. It also investigates the eligibility requirements for securing financing for tiny houses, highlighting barriers such as low income, insufficient documentation, and high urban property prices. Findings reveal that while tiny houses offer a promising alternative to conventional housing, systemic challenges must be addressed to make this option viable. By increasing awareness and addressing financial and regulatory hurdles, THM could provide a sustainable and affordable housing solution, alleviating urban poverty and housing stress among Malaysia's young adults.