Tours
Couple turn their retirement into magnificent lifestyle with semi-truck home on wheels
They aren't missing out on a thing that "regular" retirement has to offer.
Jessica Adler
08.22.23

Ever spotted a colossal truck that looks more like a luxury home on wheels?

Chances are, you’ve just seen Clayton and Teresa Balabanov’s incredible mobile abode.

This retired couple had a dream: to travel without leaving the comforts of home behind.

YouTube - Tiny House Giant Journey
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YouTube - Tiny House Giant Journey

When retirement came knocking, the duo had a vision of a mobile home that could house all their essentials, including a jetski and a hefty motorcycle.

But nothing on the market seemed to fit their grand vision.

So, what did they do? They took matters into their own hands, of course.

YouTube - Tiny House Giant Journey
Source:
YouTube - Tiny House Giant Journey

Enter the “Nomad Monster.”

This isn’t just any truck; it’s a retired semi-truck transformed into a dream home.

The Balabanovs purchased a second-hand semi-truck and embarked on a five-year journey, investing $180,000 to morph it into a sustainable, cozy dwelling they proudly call home.

YouTube - Tiny House Giant Journey
Source:
YouTube - Tiny House Giant Journey

The dimensions of this mobile marvel? A whopping 74×8.5×13.5 feet, extendable to 14.5 feet.

The first years saw them revamping the truck and setting up the primary structure.

The subsequent four years? All about refining and perfecting every nook and cranny.

YouTube - Tiny House Giant Journey
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YouTube - Tiny House Giant Journey

A rear garage with a hydraulic door system houses Clayton’s tools and beloved “big-boy toys.”

A built-in pulley system ensures their jetski is safely stowed, with ample space left for their motorcycle.

YouTube - Tiny House Giant Journey
Source:
YouTube - Tiny House Giant Journey

“Our kitchen? Bigger than most apartments,” Clayton proudly shared with Insider.

“We plan to spend our lives here, and we want comfort. At 75, I don’t want to be squished in a tiny space making beans on toast.”

This sentiment perfectly captures their desire for a spacious kitchen, ideal for whipping up gourmet meals.

YouTube - Tiny House Giant Journey
Source:
YouTube - Tiny House Giant Journey

But that’s not all.

Imagine reclining in front of a 75-inch 4K television, creating a mini-theater experience.

While Clayton, a former programmer, uses it as his workspace, it’s also their entertainment hub, complete with a top-notch sound system for movie nights.

YouTube - Tiny House Giant Journey
Source:
YouTube - Tiny House Giant Journey

Ascend a spiral staircase, and you’ll find a bathroom, bedroom, and—wait for it—a hot tub!

These “little luxuries” make their retirement all the more sweet.

And for those unexpected moments? There’s an emergency toilet.

Teresa’s one request? A library. Nestled by the stairs, this cozy reading nook, complete with a bookshelf and recliner, is her sanctuary.

YouTube - Tiny House Giant Journey
Source:
YouTube - Tiny House Giant Journey

The Balabanovs’ mobile home is a testament to their vision and hard work.

As they journey on, meeting new faces and exploring new places, their unique home ensures they retire in style.

Curious to see more? Get the full tour below!

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