Off Grid Homes for Sale

Living off grid is one of the biggest choices you can make to achieve independence from our complex and fragile energy infrastructure. Much of our modern lifestyle is dependent on power supplied invisibly through “the grid.” It’s hard to imagine the full impact of life without it. 

What Does it Take to Move Off-Grid?

Choosing to live on an off-grid property means taking responsibility for energy production directly.  Depending on the budget and system, this can range from a minimal low-tech lifestyle, or be virtually invisible with all the conveniences.

The most affordable (and low impact) systems provide only power for essential electronics. For example, a small solar panel and miniature battery bank might power your satellite modem and laptop, providing a reliable link to the Internet. For everything else it’s just like camping.

Most frequently, a home power system is designed to handle the crucial tasks, but not the heaviest loads. This might include: lighting, a well pump, ventilation, and refrigeration. You may still opt to use a wood or gas fired oven and furnace, and a gas-operated clothes dryer or deep freezer. Climate control has its own challenges, so rad up on heating and cooling options.

A “full up” off-grid system can deliver peak energy needs to an entire household. This often will rely on a supplemental generator, or a very large battery bank. With this level of system, you need never be conscious of being disconnected, as your own local grid provides all that’s needed.

The National Renewable Energy Laboratory provides an excellent calculator for sizing and evaluating solar systems.

What to Look for In an Off-Grid Property

When looking for a property, it is critical to consider how you can meet your power needs. First, consider whether you do have available grid power–this makes construction, financing and a host of other tasks easier, even if you do opt to subsequently disconnect.

Second, look for property with sufficient solar irradiance, and suitable weather for solar power. Check out our guide to choosing a property suitable for solar power. Choose a property with clear southern exposure for maximum sunshine.

Third, consider alternatives to solar power. In mountainous country, consider the use of micro-hydro power. If a parcel of land has sufficient head (i.e. elevation change), and a year-round stream, there’s good potential for the installation of a small turbine that can produce power 24/7, without concern for bad weather. If in open country, wind power provides a good complement to solar.

Finally, get educated, and plan to continue learning. While going off grid provides a great sense of independence, it incurs additional responsibility. Start off on the right foot by choosing a real estate professional that has experience with off grid property, and who will be able to provide the voice of local experience. Searching for an off-grid home is somewhat 

Off Grid Properties for Sale

Explore the range of properties listed for sale, with everything from deluxe high-efficiency solar homes to self-sufficent off-grid cabins far removed from civilization. 

Welcome to this 2 bedroom 1 full bath with shower and a toilet upstairs in the primary kitchen combo home and below grade bunker supplied with all you need to survive, flourish and grow your homestead come what may. With almost 7 acres there’s plenty of room to add more dwellings if you want to grow the compound for more family or friends. The home is good looking and you will be proud to […]
An impressive piece of real estate, boasting 86 acres of pristine land, 23 acres of Jr water rights and three beautifully constructed homes. Property offers privacy and serene living environment! The 86 acres of land surrounding the home feature lush greenery, mature trees providing a picturesque backdrop for outdoor activities and relaxation! 45 to 50 acres have been pastered, farmed and air-able. Additionally offers potential for agricultural and/or equestrian pursuits. Has a 2 level […]
The title says it all this property is truly A Unique Mountain Retreat, situated at around 5,500 feet with spectacular nature views in every direction, it is accessible year round, located on the far side of a single access loop backed up against mountains, there is no through traffic and only homeowners and guests frequent the area which can be closed off to all outside access. A highly efficient four level 3,500 sq ft […]

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