Buying An Established Shipping Container Home

Buying an established shipping container home can be a great option for those looking for a unique, Eco-friendly, and affordable living space. However, it’s important to do your due diligence when considering a specific property.

Factors to consider when buying an established shipping container home include structural integrity, insulation and climate control, plumbing and electrical systems, permits and zoning, quality of craftsmanship, maintenance records, location, and price.

This includes checking the structural integrity, insulation and climate control systems, plumbing and electrical systems, permits and zoning, quality of craftsmanship, maintenance records, location, and price. By considering all of these factors, you can make an informed decision about whether a specific shipping container home is right for you. Read on…

Factors To Consider

If you’re considering buying an established shipping container home, here are some things to look for:

Structural integrity: Make sure that the shipping container has been properly reinforced and that there are no signs of rust, corrosion, or damage to the structure.
Insulation and climate control: Check the insulation and climate control systems to ensure that they are adequate for the local climate and that they are in good working order.
Plumbing and electrical systems: Make sure that the plumbing and electrical systems are properly installed and that there are no leaks, faulty wiring, or other issues.
Permits and zoning: Verify that the shipping container home has been built to code and that all necessary permits and approvals have been obtained from local authorities.
Quality of craftsmanship: Look for signs of quality craftsmanship, such as well-finished surfaces, smooth seams, and attention to detail.
Maintenance records: If the current owner has kept records of maintenance and repairs, review them to get an idea of the condition of the home and any issues that may need to be addressed.
Location: Consider the location of the shipping container home and the surrounding area, including access to utilities, proximity to amenities, and potential environmental hazards.
Price: Compare the price of the shipping container home to other similar homes in the area to make sure you’re getting a fair deal.

Lets break each one of these factors down a little further.

Structural integrity

Ensuring the structural integrity of a shipping container home is crucial to its safety and longevity. When inspecting the shipping container, look for any signs of rust, corrosion, or damage to the structure. If the container has been modified, check that the modifications have been properly reinforced and that they do not compromise the structural integrity of the container.

Some common reinforcements for shipping container homes include welding steel reinforcements, adding steel beams or columns, and using concrete footings or piers. It’s important to ensure that these reinforcements are properly installed and meet local building codes and regulations.

Additionally, consider the condition of the doors, windows, and roof of the container. Make sure they are properly sealed and that there are no leaks or other issues that could compromise the structural integrity of the container.

Have a professional inspection of the shipping container home to ensure that it meets all safety standards and that there are no hidden issues that could become problems in the future.

Insulation and climate control

Insulation and climate control are important factors to consider when buying an established shipping container home. Here are some things to look for:

Insulation: Check the insulation of the container to ensure that it is adequate for the local climate. Depending on the climate, insulation may need to be added or upgraded to keep the home comfortable and energy-efficient.
Climate control systems: Check that the heating and cooling systems are in good working order and are appropriately sized for the space. Depending on the local climate, the home may need to have a heating and cooling system, such as a heat pump or air conditioning unit.
Ventilation: Check that the home has adequate ventilation to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to mold and other problems. Look for ventilation systems such as fans or vents, and ensure that they are in good working order.
Energy efficiency: Check the energy efficiency of the home to ensure that it is not costing you more in utility bills than necessary. Look for features such as insulated windows, energy-efficient appliances, and LED lighting.
Indoor air quality: Check that the home has good indoor air quality by ensuring that the ventilation systems are working properly and that there are no signs of mold, mildew, or other indoor air pollutants.

Ensure that the insulation and climate control systems of the shipping container home are appropriate for the local climate and are in good working order to ensure your comfort and the long-term durability of the home.

Plumbing and electrical systems

Ensuring that the plumbing and electrical systems of a shipping container home are properly installed and in good working order is important for your safety and comfort. Here are some things to look for:

Plumbing: Check that the plumbing system is properly installed and that there are no leaks or other issues. Make sure that the hot water heater is in good working order and appropriately sized for the home’s needs.
Electrical: Check that the electrical system is properly installed and that there are no faulty wiring or other issues. Ensure that the electrical system is appropriately sized for the home’s needs and that the electrical outlets, switches, and fixtures are all in good working order.
Safety features: Check that the home has appropriate safety features, such as smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors, to ensure your safety.
Water quality: If the home is connected to a well or other non-municipal water supply, check the water quality to ensure that it is safe to drink and use.
Waste disposal: Check that the home has an appropriate waste disposal system, such as a septic system or connection to a municipal sewage system.

It’s important to ensure that the plumbing and electrical systems of the shipping container home are properly installed and in good working order to ensure your safety and comfort. If you have any doubts about the systems, it may be a good idea to have a professional inspection.

Permits and zoning

Verifying that the shipping container home has been built to code and that all necessary permits and approvals have been obtained from local authorities is important to avoid any legal or safety issues. Here are some things to look for:

Permits: Check that all necessary building permits have been obtained from the local building department. This includes permits for any modifications made to the container and for any site work, such as the installation of utilities.
Zoning: Verify that the container home is located in a zone where it is legal to live in a shipping container home. Some areas have zoning regulations that may restrict the use of shipping containers for residential purposes.
Building codes: Ensure that the container home has been built to code, including compliance with local building codes, fire codes, and safety codes. This is important to ensure that the home is safe and meets all necessary standards.
Inspections: Check that the container home has passed all necessary inspections, including inspections for plumbing, electrical, and structural work. This will help ensure that the home is safe and meets all necessary standards.
Occupancy permit: Verify that the container home has obtained an occupancy permit from the local building department. This permit confirms that the home is safe and meets all necessary standards for occupancy.

It’s important to ensure that the shipping container home has been built to code and that all necessary permits and approvals have been obtained from local authorities. If you have any doubts about the legality of the home or its compliance with local regulations, it may be a good idea to consult with a professional or contact the local building department for more information.

Quality of craftsmanship

The quality of craftsmanship is an important factor to consider when buying an established shipping container home. Here are some things to look for:

Well-finished surfaces: Look for smooth, even finishes on the walls, floors, and ceilings. The finishes should be free from dents, scratches, and other imperfections.
Smooth seams: Check that the seams between the shipping container panels are smooth and even. If the seams are uneven or poorly finished, it could indicate poor craftsmanship or potential water leakage.
Attention to detail: Look for signs of attention to detail, such as neatly finished edges, properly installed trim, and well-crafted cabinetry. These details can indicate that the builder took care in creating a quality product.
Functionality: Ensure that the home’s components, such as doors, windows, and cabinets, function properly and are well-installed. Poorly installed or malfunctioning components can indicate poor workmanship.
Overall condition: Assess the overall condition of the home. If the home has been well-maintained and cared for, it can be a good indication of quality craftsmanship.

It’s important to look for signs of quality craftsmanship when buying an established shipping container home. This will help ensure that you are investing in a home that is well-built and will provide you with many years of comfortable living.

Maintenance records

Reviewing maintenance records is a good idea when buying an established shipping container home. These records can give you a good idea of the condition of the home and any issues that may need to be addressed. Here are some things to look for:

Regular maintenance: Check that the home has been regularly maintained, including routine tasks such as cleaning gutters, servicing HVAC systems, and inspecting the roof for damage.
Repairs: Look for any repairs that have been made to the home and verify that they were done properly. If the repairs were made by a professional, ask for documentation or receipts.
Upgrades: Check for any upgrades that have been made to the home, such as the installation of new appliances or the replacement of old plumbing or electrical systems.
Timing: Check the timing of the maintenance and repairs to get an idea of how long ago they were done. If repairs were made recently, it could indicate that the home has been well-maintained. If repairs were made a long time ago, it may be worth having a professional inspection to check their current condition.

Reviewing maintenance records can help you get a better understanding of the condition of the shipping container home you are considering buying. This information can be helpful in making an informed decision about whether the home is the right fit for you and if any repairs or upgrades may be needed in the future.

Location

The location of a shipping container home is an important factor to consider when buying an established one. Here are some things to look for:

Access to utilities: Check that the home has access to necessary utilities, such as electricity, water, and sewer. If the home is off-grid, verify that it has alternative sources of power and water.
Proximity to amenities: Consider the proximity of the home to necessary amenities, such as grocery stores, hospitals, and schools. If the home is in a remote location, it may be more difficult to access these amenities.
Environmental hazards: Check for potential environmental hazards in the surrounding area, such as flood zones, earthquake-prone areas, or areas prone to wildfires. These hazards can affect the safety and value of the home.
Zoning: Verify that the home is in compliance with local zoning laws and regulations. This can affect the use of the property and potential resale value.
Accessibility: Consider the accessibility of the property, including the quality of the road leading to the home, parking options, and any obstacles to accessing the property.

Considering the location of the shipping container home and the surrounding area is an important factor in making an informed decision about whether the home is the right fit for you. It can also affect the value and resale potential of the property.

Price

Price is an important factor to consider when buying an established shipping container home. Here are some things to keep in mind:

Comparison: Compare the price of the shipping container home to other similar homes in the area. This will give you an idea of the fair market value for the home.
Condition: Take into account the condition of the home when comparing prices. If the home is in good condition and has had recent upgrades, it may be worth more than a similar home in poor condition.
Location: Consider the location of the home when comparing prices. Homes in desirable locations may command a higher price than those in less desirable areas.
Extras: Take into account any extras that may be included in the price of the home, such as appliances, furniture, or landscaping.
Negotiation: Remember that the price of a home is often negotiable. Don’t be afraid to make an offer that is below the asking price and be prepared to negotiate with the seller.

Comparing the price of the shipping container home to other similar homes in the area will help you determine whether you are getting a fair deal. Keep in mind that the price is not the only factor to consider, and you should also take into account the condition, location, and extras that come with the home.

Conclusion

An established shipping container home can be a viable option for those looking for a unique and affordable housing solution. These homes can be a sustainable and Eco-friendly option, as they are often made from recycled materials and can be designed to be energy-efficient. They can also be a good option for those looking for a smaller or more minimalist living space.

When buying an established shipping container home, it is important to carefully consider the factors mentioned earlier, including the condition of the home, location, and price. It is also important to ensure that the home has been properly reinforced, insulated, and equipped with plumbing and electrical systems that meet your needs.

If you are considering buying an established shipping container home, it can be helpful to work with a real estate agent or contractor who has experience with these types of homes. They can help you navigate the process and provide guidance on what to look for when inspecting potential homes.