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Some people dream of grand mansions, while others love the simplicity of a compact abode. Either way, what matters most is finding a home that suits your lifestyle.
Just like Allan and Irena, who chose the latter, embracing a simpler life in a tiny house nestled in the natural beauty of Negeri Sembilan. Their decision to downsize wasn’t about sacrificing comfort but about prioritising a lifestyle that brings them joy and fulfilment.
It all started when they quit their day jobs and moved away from the city to begin their glamping business. They’ve traded their bustling city life for a serene existence in a 300 sq ft tiny house at La Hilir Kuala Pilah, proving that sometimes, less really is more.
Join Allan and Irena as they share their story and practical tips for those considering a similar path. Discover how downsizing could be the key to unlocking a more satisfying way of life.
Financial Strategy Is a Must
Just like buying a new home, renovating, renting, or anything else related to real estate, having a sound financial strategy makes it easier to manage finances. Allan and Irena’s transition to a tiny house was no different—strategically planned, focusing on financial sustainability and smart investment choices that paved the way for a debt-free lifestyle.
Let’s take a closer look at how they managed their finances through this transformation:
1. Choosing the Right Fit for Financial Freedom
Downsizing was a key financial strategy for Allan and Irena. By building a 300 sq ft tiny house, they significantly reduced their living costs, gaining a sense of financial freedom and control.
Allan explains, "We don’t need so much, right? So, that’s why we decided to make this move, and that’s where the tiny house came from. Our tiny house has a floor area of 300 sq ft, and it’s a steel frame structure, and it cost us roughly around RM80,000 for the structure itself."
This decision reflects their commitment to living within their means while achieving a comfortable and fulfilling lifestyle.
2. Smart Budgeting and DIY To Cut Costs
Allan highlights the importance of budgeting and prioritising financial resources, particularly in avoiding loans.
"RM80,000 is quite doable for us, so we don’t need to take out a loan. That makes it so much easier for us to manage our finances. One way we saved on costs during the building was that we designed the house ourselves," he shares.
As they handled the design work themselves, they maintained control over expenses and avoided the financial burden of debt.
3. Turning Passion Into Profit
Embracing self-employment allowed them to integrate their personal interests with their professional lives. Both Allan and Irena are passionate about the outdoors, which inspired them to start a glamping business, turning their hobby into a source of income.
"Consider self-employment and choose your passion as your business. Since you want to be self-employed, what better way to start a business that you already know, right?”
“We love camping so much, and we used to do it like twice a month. So, since camping is our passion, we decided to start a glamping business," they explain.
This move not only provided financial benefits but also complemented their minimalist lifestyle.
4. Planning for Unforeseen Challenges
Starting a business during the pandemic came with its set of challenges, but Allan and Irena were prepared to adapt.
"So, it was during COVID times, and there couldn’t be any worse timing to do this. We had our tents, and we just set up our tents, with our own stuff, our own beds, mattresses, beddings, and everything."
"We took a picture and posted it on social media. And then during January 2021, the whole month was fully booked," recounts Allan.
Their readiness to pivot and leverage social media helped them thrive despite the odds.
Creating Balance in a Compact Home
Living in a tiny house isn’t just about reducing space—it’s about adapting your lifestyle to a simpler, more mindful way of living. Allan and Irena’s journey into tiny house living brought profound changes, each enhancing their quality of life and well-being.
Here’s how they embraced these lifestyle shifts:
5. Embracing Simplicity for a Fulfilling Life
Allan and Irena quickly realised that downsizing was the key to a more satisfying life.
Reflecting on their decision, Allan says, "We had that eureka moment that – Hey, actually, we can be happy with little stuff, right? We don’t need so much." Their shift to a simpler lifestyle was not just about having less, but about focusing on what truly brought them joy and contentment, inspiring others to do the same.
Their shift to a simpler lifestyle wasn’t just about having less—it was about focusing on what truly brought them happiness and contentment, free from the clutter of unnecessary possessions.
6. Choosing a Strategic and Serene Location
Moving from the bustling city to a rural setting in Kuala Pilah enhanced their living experience by providing more space and a connection to nature.
Allan describes their new environment: "We are at La Hilir in Kuala Pilah, Negeri Sembilan. It’s about one and a half hours drive from Kuala Lumpur, where we used to live. And now we are living in nature, in our tiny home."
He further explains, "Going tiny doesn’t mean that you have to sacrifice creature comforts. So, a big difference between living in the city and now in nature, in the rural area, is that we actually have more space right here. A small house with a big outdoor area is a big difference."
7. Mindful Living in a Small Space
The transition to a tiny house taught Allan and Irena to be more conscious of their living space and the items they chose to keep. "So, living in a tiny house taught us how to be mindful of space," they note.
Irena adds, "Me and my children, when we want to buy something, we always think, ‘Do we really, really, really need this stuff?'"
This mindfulness has optimised their living space and fostered a more thoughtful approach to consumption.
8. Consider a Change of Environment
The change of scenery from urban to rural has had a profound impact on their family’s well-being.
Allan shares, "This move has really transformed our lives for the better. We get to spend quality time with each other, together. Our health and mental health improved, and we’d really recommend it to everyone who is looking to do the same thing. Go for it!"
The positive effects of this lifestyle change are evident—not just physically but also mentally and emotionally—demonstrating how well this approach works for their family.
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Fulfilment Achieved Through Simple Living
Allan and Irena’s journey is an inspiring example for anyone feeling overwhelmed by the fast pace and pressures of modern life. By embracing the "less is more" philosophy, they’ve found greater freedom, peace, and a deeper connection to what truly matters.
If you’re considering a similar lifestyle shift, keep in mind that a smaller home can lead to big rewards with thoughtful planning, a clear vision, and a willingness to adapt.
As Allan wisely put it, "Why live big when you can live better?" The choice is yours.
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