Bus-Curious in Boston

[Kutillius]

Hello all!

First my main question: What are the options for places to park a skoolie for full-time living in the greater Boston area? I'm trying to find a place with an hour or less commute to the city and I'm willing to pay rent, but part of my interest in a skoolie is to cut down on rent costs so lower price is better.

Now my story: I am a recent college grad exploring the option of living in a skoolie full-time. I've been interested in skoolies for quite a while now, and went to a tiny house festival last year in Georgia where I was able to explore a few in person (maybe I met one or two of you). After graduating I looked for work specifically in less urban areas in hopes of buying a bit of land for a skoolie but fate has provided me with a job in the center of Boston which starts in May. Additionally, the friend I was planning on finding an apartment with has been furloughed due to decreased business during the coronavirus outbreak.

I don't know if I can bring myself to pay ~$1,800 a month for a decent single apartment and so I'm re-investigating the skoolie option. If I can find one already converted that fits my needs then I plan to buy, otherwise I will work on the conversion while living at my parent's house (a 1.5-2 hour commute to the city).

I have pretty much no idea what options are available for somewhere to stay long-term. I think the ideal situation would be finding a home/landowner with an unused bit of land where I can set up for a bit of rent, but I'm not aware of where I would go to ask and what the laws are regarding such a setup in MA/NH. I am also aware that there are tiny home communities in other parts of the country but I don't know of any in my area. Finally, I would be willing to live in an RV park but I know that many don't take skoolies and it would probably be the most expensive option. Whichever route I go, I plan to have a bus that can operate mostly off-grid with solar power, a composting toilet, large water tank, etc. so I don't need anywhere with RV hook-ups.


I'd greatly appreciate any advice or info!

[PNW_Steve]

Welcome,

You are starting out with a very important question that many new Skoolie owners overlook until they have a bus and can not find a place to park it.

Boston itself may be challenging. I would look in industrial areas and look for places with lots of equipment parked. Ask if you can rent storage/work space. Another avenue is RV storage places on Craigslist. Many don't allow you to work on the bus in their yard. Call and ask. Emphasize interior work and how neat and clean you will keep things.

Good luck.