| dc.description.abstract | The relatively low construction, maintenance and other space-related costs of tiny housing can create financial savings for its inhabitants compared to their previous homes. These cost savings may then be reallocated to other consumption categories, a phenomenon known as the indirect re-spending effect. However, the areas in which re-spending occurs are largely dependent on individual preferences and motivations, highlighting the need for studies assessing the behavioural components of re-spending. Accordingly, this thesis aimed to analyse the relationship between motivations to move into tiny housing and the re-spending of housing cost savings among Dutch tiny house inhabitants.
The study was conducted using a survey among 76 Dutch tiny house inhabitants and 11 short interviews with inhabitants at tiny house open days. The research first assessed whether housing savings occurred, then identified if re-spending occurred based on changes in patterns. Finally, the research determined how these changes relate to motivational categories. Given the relatively small sample size, the results should be indicated as trends within the sample rather than generalisable conclusions.
The findings show that most respondents experienced housing cost savings after moving into a tiny house. These savings appeared to be accompanied by increased expenses in relaxation, savings and maintenance. The increased relaxational expenses suggest an indirect re-spending in categories unrelated to housing. In contrast, the increases for both maintenance and savings primarily related to the house itself. This therefore reflects a potential direct rebound effect, where savings are reinvested into the same domain. Instead, reductions in expenses were also found for expenditures on consumer goods such as electronics and clothing. This indicated a potential positive spillover effect, where the move into a tiny house is part of a broader conscious lifestyle.
The analysis found that motivational categories were closely linked to re-spending patterns in several consumption domains. Motivations such as self-sufficiency and customisation and sense of community were significantly related to increased spending. Conversely, motivations related to financial possibilities, sustainability, flexibility and mobility, and simplicity and minimalism, were significantly associated with decreased consumption. These findings imply that re-spending is more likely among motivations linked to lifestyle enrichment, such as customisation and community, while the other motivations suggest a broader shift toward reduced consumption.
Future research using larger and more representative samples could help validate these indicated patterns and improve the understanding of re-spending determinants among tiny house inhabitants. | |
