A 20-year-old student lives rent-free in a tiny home in his mom's backyard: 'Moving back home was just out of necessity'

Dan LatuMar 16, 2023, 23:01 IST

Majbritt Rayas, right, bought a tiny home for her son, Daniel, to live in while he goes to school and works.Courtesy of Majbritt Rayas

Student Daniel Rayas worked nonstop to afford a two-bedroom apartment with three roommates.
His mom, Majbritt, bought a $14,000 tiny home for her Austin, Texas yard to lower his costs.

Austin resident Majbritt Rayas saw her 20-year-old son Daniel struggling to both pay rent and attend college classes. She wondered if there was a way to help him.

The tiny home when it was purchased in 2021.Courtesy of Majbritt Rayas

The $14,000 tiny home with a new paint job.Courtesy of Majbritt Rayas

The Rayas revamped the interior of the tiny home, adding steps up to the loft space.Courtesy of Majbritt Rayas

The kitchenette has miniature cabinets, a sink, and a petite fridge.Courtesy of Majbritt Rayas

Daniel's lofted bedroom space. He put a TV beside the bed.Courtesy of Majbritt Rayas

A view from the lofted bedroom down to the ground floor of the tiny home.Courtesy of Majbritt Rayas

Daniel's bathroom that one day may host short-term-rental guests.Courtesy of Majbritt Rayas