Want a Tiny House? 50 Are Being Auctioned in West Michigan

Always dreamed of owning your own tiny house? Or possibly several to launch your own mini-resort or Airbnb retreat? Well, here’s your chance: 50 small-scale housing units are now up for auction in West Michigan.

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Where the Pods Came From

The pods are compact, insulated prefab homes, each outfitted with windows and locking doors. They were purchased in 2021 by Housing Resources Inc. (HRI) as part of a $1 million plan to shelter people experiencing homelessness in Kalamazoo.

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But the project ran into roadblocks—including pushback from neighbors over where the pods would go—and was ultimately shut down in 2024, according to WWMT-3.

Now, HRI is hoping the pods will find new life. “We’re eager to see the pods put to good use,” said HRI Executive Director Michelle Davis. “It may not have gone as planned, but it sparked new momentum to address homelessness in our community.” In fact, according to WWMT-3, a new 80-unit transitional family shelter is already planned for another site in Kalamazoo.

How to Bid on the Tiny Houses

Interested in a tiny house? Bidding is open now through July 30 at Orbitbid.com. Described as “new/never lived in,” the pods include 34 smaller ModPods (8’ x 8’ x 8’) and 16 larger ModPod2s (16’ x 8’ x 8’). All are weather-tight and built for long-term use without the need for a traditional foundation.

👇BELOW: YOU HAVE TO SEE THE WACKY AND WONDERFUL BUBBLE HOUSE FOR SALE IN KALAMAZOO👇

Each unit comes equipped with insulated walls and ceilings, interior and exterior lighting, heating and A/C, locking metal doors, built-in beds, and shelving. The pods are being stored in Battle Creek and you can check them out by appointment.

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From Public Housing to Private Potential

If you're thinking, "One pod sounds cool, but 50?" You don't actually have to buy all of them. It's a sealed bid auction and when submitting your bid, you can express the number you're interested in. According to the listing, you should put in your highest and best bid.

Whether you’re eyeing a backyard office, a guest cabin, or a whole tiny village, this just might be your shot!