UPDATE: In an inspiring turn of events, the Heidecker family has successfully built a tiny home for Yeli Heidecker’s mother, costing just $33,000—a staggering savings of $30,000 compared to contractor quotes of $63,000. This heartwarming project, which began in September 2025, showcases the power of determination and DIY spirit.
Yeli Heidecker, a 32-year-old mother of four from central Texas, decided to create a more permanent living space for her mother after she moved into an RV on their property in 2024 due to health issues. “We knew we wanted her closer to us, but the RV wasn’t a long-term solution,” Heidecker explained. The family rolled up their sleeves to build a tiny home on their property, which they affectionately dubbed a “tiny casita.”
After receiving quotes for a small barndominium, including an eye-watering estimate of $97,000 for a 20-by-30-foot model, the Heideckers opted to take on most of the labor themselves. “We were shocked by the pricing,” Heidecker said. With her husband lacking professional building experience, they relied on online resources and videos to learn the necessary skills.
The construction kicked off in September 2025 while Heidecker’s mother was visiting family in Mexico. They designed the layout to perfectly accommodate her mom’s needs and hired professionals for the exterior shell and concrete flooring. The couple worked tirelessly, often after her husband’s pilot shifts, to make the dream a reality.
Heidecker shared that juggling work and parenting added challenges. “It was crazy with the kids,” she admitted, noting that her mother was not there to help watch them during the build. However, the couple’s teamwork ultimately strengthened their relationship, overcoming disagreements about aesthetics versus practicality.
After eight weeks of construction, the tiny home was completed, albeit with the bathroom still unfinished. Heidecker’s mother officially moved in by November 2025, enjoying her cozy new space that features a full kitchen, living area, bedroom, and a laundry setup.
“We saved about $20,000 in labor costs alone,” Heidecker stated, crediting smart shopping at local stores for their ability to keep costs down. The family bought many supplies at Lowe’s and took advantage of sales, including Black Friday deals.
Despite minor regrets about size and elevation, Heidecker expressed immense satisfaction with the project. “It feels good knowing my mom has a permanent home now,” she said. The tiny home has not only brought joy to her mother but also created a special bond with her kids, who love visiting their grandmother.
For anyone considering a similar endeavor, Heidecker encourages embracing the journey. “It’s so fun, especially when you’re doing it yourself,” she concluded, emphasizing that the experience is worth the effort.
This remarkable story highlights not just the ingenuity of the Heidecker family but also the emotional ties that strengthen family bonds through shared projects.
