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| Any good homestead starts with land, water and workable starting bones Many homesteads have old buildings which can be a source of inspiration |
The homestead movement has been gaining in popularity in recent years due to a variety of factors, including concerns about the environment, the rising cost of living, and a desire for a simpler, more fulfilling way of life. Many people are also attracted to the homesteading lifestyle as a way to escape the stresses of modern society and reconnect with nature.
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| Homesteads come in every Style |
Advances in technology and communication have also made it easier for homesteaders to connect with each other and share knowledge and resources, leading to the creation of online communities and the growth of the movement as a whole.
Overall, the homestead movement represents a growing trend towards a more sustainable, self-sufficient way of life, and reflects a growing awareness of the impact of human activities on the environment.
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| This is concept for a 20x20 Boxable modular |
What do you need for a family compound that is debt free and will support a family for 100 years
Creating a debt-free family compound that can support a family for 100 years requires careful planning, long-term vision, and attention to many factors, such as:
- Location: Choose a location that is safe, easily accessible, has good water and soil quality, and is suitable for farming, gardening, or other forms of sustainable food production.
- Land: Acquire enough land to accommodate the needs of your family, including living quarters, a garden, livestock, and recreational areas. Consider purchasing land that is already zoned for agricultural use and has access to necessary utilities.
- Housing: Build or purchase housing that is durable and energy-efficient, with enough space to accommodate your family members and any guests. Consider using sustainable materials and technologies, such as solar panels, rainwater harvesting systems, and composting toilets.
- Food: Create a sustainable food system by growing fruits and vegetables, raising livestock, and preserving food for long-term storage. Consider implementing permaculture techniques, such as companion planting, to maximize yields and minimize waste.
- Water: Ensure a reliable source of water by drilling a well or harvesting rainwater. Install a filtration system to remove any contaminants and ensure a safe water supply for drinking, cooking, and irrigation.
- Energy: Implement renewable energy sources, such as solar panels or wind turbines, to provide electricity for your family's needs. Consider installing a backup generator or battery storage system to ensure uninterrupted power supply.
- Community: Build a strong sense of community by involving family members in decision-making and planning. Encourage participation in local organizations and events to create a sense of belonging and connection to the surrounding area.
- Education: Establish a system of education that meets the needs of your family members. Consider homeschooling, online courses, or hiring a tutor to ensure a high-quality education.
- Emergency Preparedness: Prepare for emergencies by having a well-stocked pantry, first aid kit, and emergency supplies. Develop an evacuation plan and establish communication protocols to ensure the safety of your family members.
PRO TIP - Foothill or low elevation Mountain areas have old homesteads in valley areas that are not suited to large scale commercial agriculture but are well suited to 100 acre or smaller homesteads. They often have woods (for firewood), water, good elevation for fruit trees and enough grazing for small scale animals like pigs and sheep. Find something with a small cute town or wine or fruit tree region that has a tax base that isn't expensive and spend 20 years making it better as a family effort or weekend project. RV;s, new Modulars like Boxable ship right in and 'unfold', Tiny houses and small post frame builds can be inexpensive and skill builders.
By considering these factors and taking a long-term, sustainable approach to planning and development, you can create a family compound that is debt-free and can support your family for 100 years or more.
Creating a farm that will last for generations requires a long-term vision and careful planning. Here are some basics to consider
- Soil health: The health of the soil is critical for the long-term productivity of the farm. Implement sustainable soil management practices, such as crop rotation, cover cropping, and natural fertilization methods, to maintain soil health.
- Water management: Implement efficient water management practices, such as rainwater harvesting, drip irrigation, and efficient watering schedules, to conserve water and maintain a reliable source of water for crops.
- Crop diversity: Diversify crops to ensure a reliable source of income and maintain soil health. This can also help protect against crop failures due to pests, disease, or weather events.
- Conservation: Implement conservation practices, such as planting buffer strips, maintaining natural habitats, and reducing pesticide and herbicide use, to protect the environment and maintain the long-term productivity of the farm.
- Education: Pass on knowledge and skills to future generations by involving them in the farm's operations and providing opportunities for education and training.
- Financial planning: Develop a long-term financial plan to ensure the financial stability of the farm for future generations. This may include diversifying income sources, managing debt, and planning for succession.
- Maintenance: Regularly maintain and repair buildings, equipment, and infrastructure to ensure their longevity and safety.
PRO TIP - Focus on a place you enjoy being at and having family and friends visit and stay. Plan for mostly pasture and be sure to hardscape your core kitchen garden areas, cute chicken coops and greenhouse (ie put in something that is permanent and easy (and pretty) to maintain. Be a land steward and water steward... your land will reward you.
By considering these basics and taking a long-term, sustainable approach to planning and development, you can create a farm that will last for generations and provide a reliable source of income and food for your family and community.
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| Always create a space where you want to be and where others feel welcome |
A multi-family compound can provide a unique and flexible living arrangement for multiple families. The optimum components of a multi-family compound will depend on the needs and preferences of the families involved, but here are some key components to consider:
- Individual living spaces: Each family should have their own private living space that provides enough room for comfortable living, including bedrooms, bathrooms, living areas, and kitchen space.
- Shared common areas: Common areas such as a kitchen, dining room, living room, and outdoor spaces can be shared by all families. These areas provide a space for socializing and communal activities.
- Separate entrances: Each family should have a separate entrance to their living space to ensure privacy and independence.
- Shared utilities: Sharing utilities such as heating, cooling, and water can help reduce costs and increase efficiency. Each living space should have its own meter to ensure that each family pays for their fair share of utilities.
- Parking: Adequate parking space should be provided to ensure that each family has access to their own vehicle.
- Outdoor spaces: Outdoor spaces such as a garden, yard, or patio can provide a space for recreation, gardening, and relaxation.
- Access to amenities: Access to amenities such as grocery stores, schools, and medical facilities should be considered when selecting a location for the multi-family compound.
- Flexible design: The design of the multi-family compound should be flexible to accommodate changes in family size and needs over time.
By considering these components and tailoring them to the specific needs of the families involved, a multi-family compound can provide a comfortable and sustainable living arrangement for multiple families.
