Tiny 189-Square-Foot Cape Cod Cottage That Is Just Steps From the Beach Hits Market for Under $300K

A seasonal tiny cottage that offers less than 190 square feet of living space has bobbed onto the market in Cape Cod, where it is being touted as a prime investment opportunity that could earn a future buyer a very lucrative rental income.

Built in 1940, the minuscule Truro, MA, abode is tucked behind two other dwellings that are part of a larger compound—and are also available for sale with the cottage for the much larger price of $2.1 million.

But for those seeking a much slimmer slice of beachside paradise, the 189-square-foot dwelling, which is referred to as Unit 16S, can be purchased by itself for just $295,000.

Despite its diminutive size, the property packs quite the punch as far as amenities are concerned, boasting a kitchenette, a bedroom that is currently set up with two twin beds, and a full bathroom, as well as "exclusive use of a private outdoor yard."

The adorable abode also comes with a sizable history. For the past six decades, it has been owned by the same family—having originally been built as one of 16 homes in the highly sought-after community of White Village Cottages.

“The seller has had the property in her family since the '70s and possibly longer, and she also owns Oceana Cottages along Shore Road,” says listing agent Rebecca Pistone of Christie's International Real Estate Atlantic Brokerage.

“These residences are a part of the 16-unit community of White Village Cottages. At one point, her family owned all 16, but these are the only three she owns now.”

This free-standing seasonal cottage is currently being used as an income-producing property.

“The next buyer will be someone similar to the people who rent it every year from May through October for $1,700 a month, who are seasonal workers who work in Provincetown,” Pistone said.

“It is a great house for seasonal workers and would also be a great beach property or a rental. There are no restrictions on rentals, so you can pick and choose the way you want to use the home.”

The diminutive dwelling comes with access to a private yard and two deeded parking spaces. It also features beautiful views of the beach, which sits just steps away from the cute cottage.

Pistone notes that the dwelling is currently in a flood zone, but says there are ways in which a future buyer can ensure the home's safety.

“It has incredible views of the dunes and beach across the street,” she says. “It doesn’t have a basement, so it is on concrete blocks, but you could put it up on stilts to get it out of the flood zone.

"The seller does have a flood insurance policy, and the whole property is in the AE Flood Zone because of the elevation. A lot of the homes in the area have been built up on stilts."

Buyers should note that it is located in a condo association, which means "you don’t technically own the land," Pistone says. But "for $59 a month, they will provide trash removal, maintain the shared septic system, and provide winterization.”

A larger two-bedroom condo with “proven rental history,” referred to as Unit 14S, features 700 square feet of living space and is being offered for $629,000.

Highlights include an original kitchen, living room, and full basement waiting to be transformed into additional living space or guest quarters. It also has a greenhouse structure offering “creative potential.”

The third dwelling, Unit 15S, offers the largest residence, boasting a fully renovated 990-square-foot interior featuring three bedrooms, one bathroom, an updated kitchen, and a spacious attic and basement. It is being offered fully furnished for $1,149,000.

According to the listing, this home with a detached garage has the potential to be rented out during the peak summer season for $800 to $825 per night. It also offers the possibility to expand “upward with approvals.”

“This condo features brand-new everything and reinforced everything,” Pistone says. “It has a full basement and a lot more expansion potential.”

Pistone believes the move-in-ready coastal retreat with income possibilities and expansion opportunities will prove to be the most appealing attributes to the next buyer.

“The real thing you are buying is the location,” she says. “It also has deeded beach rights and is less than 4 miles from Provincetown, right along the bus line. It’s a beautiful spot between Truro and Provincetown and feels like a piece of heaven at the tip of Cape Cod. The future potential is huge, and people see the value of it.”