A desperate shortage of worker housing will lead to fierce competition among tourism operators for a tiny house on wheels on Kangaroo Island.
The 25sqm two-bedroom house, currently at 14b Wheelton St, Kingscote, is seeking a move to a new address and is on the market with a price guide of $124,000 to $134,000.
Selling agent Julia Smith, of Elders Kangaroo Island – Kingscote, said the tiny house had attracted more than 20 inquiries in its first 24 hours on the market, mainly from tourism operators in dire need of high-quality, affordable housing for workers during the busy summer period.
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It is modern inside and out with all the amenities you would expect from a regular house.
It has two bedrooms – one on each level.
“There is a serious shortage of housing on Kangaroo Island for workers who come here during the peak holiday season, which unfortunately happens every year,” Ms Smith said.
“I have been absolutely overwhelmed by the interest in this, especially from tourism operators or business operators who need a place for their employees to live.”
Ms Smith said there was also interest from tourist accommodation providers looking to expand their offering and from a small number of downsizers.
She said the house had significant income potential as a short-term rental property, with the current owner previously renting it out for around $550 for a three-night stay.
The small house, spread over two levels and suitable for up to six people, comes with a full kitchen with stone countertops, a dishwasher and a large refrigerator.
There is also a large shower, washing machine and compost toilet.
A six-wheel reinforced steel trailer with a 70mm tow bar allows the four-tonne house to be moved with great weight.
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The kitchen has a servery window.
The bathroom looks luxurious compared to those in many other small houses.
Kangaroo Island is one of South Africa’s most popular tourist destinations.
As part of the sale, Ms Smith said the house would have to be towed to a new location by mid-January.
She said council approval was needed before the new owner could use the house as a living space.
“You can park it wherever you want if no one is staying in it, but once you put people in it (and use it as accommodation) you have to comply with the council’s requirements – but anyone can park it in their shed or back garden in the meantime,” she said.
“It’s immaculate, it’s triple insulated and it’s very affordable.
“It’s custom work. There are a lot of Atco-type and cheap (small houses) in the area, but this is a two-room house and not a studio, so it does offer a few more options (for buyers).”
Kangaroo Island, with a population of just 5,000, is one of South Australia’s most popular tourist destinations, attracting around 180,000 visitors annually, especially in summer.
Ms Smith said the seller, who lived next door to the small house in a traditional brick house but wanted to move elsewhere, planned to sell the remainder of the Wheelton St estate later.
– by Lauren Ahwan
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