Homesteading Dreams: Finding the Perfect Off-Grid Property
Finding the right property for an off-grid lifestyle is no small feat. After looking at numerous options, we've finally found a promising 34-acre parcel that checks many of our most important boxes.
The Ideal Property Features
What makes this property stand out from the others we've seen? For starters, it has several natural features that are essential for off-grid living:
- A natural stream running through the property, providing a sustainable water source
- Existing apple trees and maple trees for food and potential syrup production
- Abundant pine and hardwood trees for building materials and firewood
- A pre-existing roadway/driveway extending about a kilometer into the property
- A cleared area perfect for initial setup and eventual cabin building
The combination of hardwood and softwood on the property means we'll have all the firewood we need, which is a significant advantage when planning to live off the grid.
Planning for Self-Sufficiency
Our vision includes setting up a functional off-grid system that requires minimal outside assistance. The property's natural water source is particularly valuable since digging a well can be both expensive and labor-intensive. We're planning to collect water directly from the stream and supplement with rain barrels for additional supply.
While we'll initially use solar power, our long-term goal is complete self-sufficiency. We're planning for all the essentials:
- A comfortable cabin for living
- Water collection and storage systems
- Sustainable firewood management
- Composting toilet facilities
- Hunting opportunities on our own land
- Maple syrup production from the existing trees
Getting Started
One of the most appealing aspects of this property is that we can begin using it immediately. The existing clearing and driveway mean we can bring in our hot tent right away and start enjoying the property while we plan and build. This is a huge advantage compared to properties that would require extensive initial work just to make them accessible.
The property feels private despite being accessible year-round, which offers the perfect balance of seclusion and convenience. The existing infrastructure means we won't have to invest in expensive road construction, saving both time and money as we begin our homesteading journey.
Home Gym Progress
While we're working on securing our dream property, we're also making progress setting up our home gym. After a year-long break from exercise due to pregnancy complications, it feels amazing to get back to a regular workout routine.
We're gradually bringing in all our equipment from the garage and figuring out the best arrangement for the space. The gym is taking shape with a weight rack for dumbbells, a treadmill, and various machines including a versatile leg curl/extension machine that's perfect for efficient workouts.
Getting back to strength training after such a long break requires starting with lighter weights and gradually building back up, but it's incredibly satisfying to be active again.
Looking Forward
We're excited about the possibility of making this property our own. The feeling we got while walking through it was unmistakable—it just feels right. Now we'll be speaking with the real estate agent to see if we can negotiate a price that works for our budget.
The journey to off-grid living is just beginning, but finding a property with so many natural advantages puts us miles ahead in achieving our self-sufficiency goals.
