Jim Caulfield EVP, General Counsel | realtors.com
Home prices in Utah have been on the rise, with Salt Lake City’s median list price reaching $550,000, as reported by Realtor.com. This surge has posed challenges for local businesses like RAM Aviation, Space & Defense. CEO George Robinson expressed concerns over the high cost of land, stating, “When you can charge $1 million for an acre of dirt here in Southern Utah... it’s obviously a concern.”
To address this issue, BoxHouse in St. George offers "compact houses" as a more affordable housing solution. These homes range from 380 to 500 square feet and can be assembled on-site quickly. Jeff Staples, co-founder of BoxHouse, explained their mission: “We believe wholeheartedly in homeownership.” Staples emphasized the importance of making homeownership accessible to those who might otherwise struggle to afford it.
BoxHouse aims to avoid the stigma associated with tiny homes. Staples remarked, “Tiny homes have a reputation of being narrow... But ours feel like a regular house.” The company plans to introduce a 1,000-square-foot model this year.
Despite the potential benefits of tiny homes—such as affordability and eco-friendliness—zoning laws often pose barriers. Larry Samuel noted that some communities fear they’ll attract less wealthy residents and that tiny homes frequently don’t conform to existing regulations.
However, there are signs of change. Chris Porter mentioned that architects and builders are creating smaller homes to address affordability issues. In Washington County near Zion National Park, an ordinance was recently created allowing tiny houses in rural areas.
BoxHouse keeps costs low by outsourcing production to China but hopes to open a U.S.-based factory due to geopolitical concerns. The company offers various floor plans with features like full kitchens and soundproofing comparable to traditional homes.
Scott Wild predicts more municipalities will ease pathways for accessory dwelling units (ADUs). To prepare for this shift, Staples has acquired land in Utah, California, and Texas for future development.
Staples remains optimistic about the future of small-home living: “We control the product and the price... But they are coming around.”
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