College is a unique time for learning and making friends, but finding cheap accommodation is difficult. Apartments are getting more expensive and difficult to find.

Joel Weber, a Texas student, had this problem. “As students, we are tight for cash and already spend a lot on books, photocopies, tuition, and other expenses.” Joel, frustrated with excessive rent, had a wonderful idea: he would construct his own wooden home.

Joel utilized design books from the library, spent all of his funds, and finished the house in a year. “I knew it was a risk,” Joel confesses, but constructing the home cost him $15,000. Joel was no longer obligated to pay rent.

Despite measuring only 14 square meters, the little wooden cabin makes effective use of its space. The stairs are a creative design that also functions as storage. Joe’s creative solution to exorbitant rent is an inspirational story for many students.