Tiny homes are coming to Six Nations.
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Citing “overwhelming” interest from band members looking to get into the housing market on the reserve, Six Nations of the Grand River Development Corporation — which oversees economic development projects for elected council — will build and sell tiny homes as a regular part of its operations .
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The idea was floated at an open house in Ohsweken in August that drew about 300 people to tour the one-bedroom and three-bedroom models on display, ranging in size from 480 to 960 square feet.
A spokesperson for the development corporation said about 130 band members have formally indicated their interest in purchasing an affordably priced, single-storey prefabricated home.
“The next phase of the tiny homes project is currently being finalized, including the logistical process for placing an order and the construction timeline of the homes,” Katie Montour said in an email to The Spectator.
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How many homes are built, and how quickly, depends on the availability of materials and local contractors and the financial “readiness” of buyers, Montour explained.
The homes are built to code and inspected, and come with all electrical and plumbing installed. Upon delivery, the buyer places their new home onto a foundation or atop a basement and connects to water and hydro sources.
The homes will be priced in the low six figures, with financial assistance available for eligible band members through Six Nations Housing.
The development corporation hopes building tiny homes will “help address housing challenges on Six Nations and to provide families in our community with safe, secure and affordable homes,” Montour said.
Project leaders say boosting the housing stock would cut into the years-long wait for affordable housing units while helping multi-generational families live on the same property.
The homes could also create housing opportunities for young professionals who currently have to move off-reserve to find a place to live.
Band members can still sign up for the project by visiting sndevcorp.ca/tinyhomes.
JP Antonacci is a Local Journalism Initiative Reporter based at the Hamilton Spectator. The initiative is funded by the Government of Canada.
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