A "container house" is a dwelling constructed from shipping containers, which can be purchased with payment options in installments on Mercado Libre.
In the online shopping age, even the unlikeliest of products are finding their way onto e-commerce platforms. We're not just talking about the regular stuff; we're diving into the world of container homes. Yes, you read that right, shipping containers turned into eco-friendly housing units, and just a click away on Mercado Libre!
Prices can vary greatly on this platform, created by Argentine entrepreneur Marcos Galperín. Start your hunt at US$2,400 for a customized standard 20-foot container, and the prices can go up to US$35,000 for a more expansive unit.
These recycled structures boast some appealing features. They come with short delivery times, often ready within six months or less. Their steel construction makes them resilient, capable of withstanding harsh climates during voyages. And they can be easily transported, with the added benefit that additional modules can be added for more space as needed.
On Mercado Libre, container homes range from $12,000,000 to $23,000,000, but you'll find fairer prices on other platforms like Amazon, with Rainmule selling for €15,000, although you'll need to factor in transportation and customs costs.
But wait, aren't these containers designed to ship products, not to live in? Well, that's a valid concern. Lucas Salvatore, president of Idero, warns that using containers as living spaces isn't advisable due to their lack of structural approval and the negative effects of sunlight, rain, and heat on their durability.
On the other hand, modular homes are making a comeback, especially in a buoyant housing market like Argentina. Unlike container homes, modular homes are specifically designed for living and are built using mass production techniques, much like car manufacturing. This makes them an affordable, quick, and sustainable housing solution.
In a market grappling with rising construction costs and a renewed interest in homeownership, modular homes offer greater controlled quality, faster execution, lower costs, and environmental benefits due to their production efficiency and minimal waste. Modular homes boast good thermal insulation and are manufactured with materials that can be almost entirely recycled, making them an appealing option for many.
Despite the numerous advantages, there are factors like regulations, transportation costs, and integration with existing structures that must be carefully considered when choosing modular homes. Understanding local building codes, zoning regulations, and infrastructure needs is crucial to ensure a smooth transition to modular living.
In essence, both container homes and modular homes offer unique benefits and challenges. While container homes can be convenient and cost-effective, their suitability as living spaces is questionable. On the other hand, modular homes are a versatile and sustainable option, with careful planning and consideration required to ensure success.
The world of online business is not limited to traditional goods; one can even find container homes for sale on platforms like Mercado Libre. Meanwhile, in a thriving housing market like Argentina, modular homes are experiencing a revival. Unlike container homes, modular homes are specifically designed for living and offer advantages such as greater controlled quality, lower costs, and environmental benefits.