Checklist for a Self-Sufficient Home

Living a self-sufficient lifestyle has always appealed to many Americans. While progress has made it easier to lean on outside support in many areas, it’s also easier than ever to be self-reliant to a great degree.

Technology has paved the way for us to use solar panels or wind turbines for energy. Science has taught us how to create a geothermal system and how to compost. And while many of the hardships that pioneers had to contend with have disappeared forever, we still possess ancient skills such as hunting and fishing to help generate our food supply. Cooking the catch of the day beats driving to the grocer for a processed meal every single time.

Renovating a home to become more self-sufficient and sustainable can do more than connect you to this basic instinct. It can save you money, reduce your impact on the environment and give you a sense of control over your home and life. Whether you live in a rural setting or a sprawling urban area, you have the opportunity to use solar panels, rain barrels, and recycled materials to make your home more sustainable and less dependent on municipal infrastructure. In addition to the return on your investment, you will be helping the environment. Living as self-sufficient a manner as possible in your renovated home will also provide a self of pride.

The accompanying checklist highlights a number of areas in which self-sufficiency can be achieved. It also describes the benefits of putting these ideas into practice. Make energy savings and water conservation part of your home renovation and you will be well on your way to being more self-sufficient.

Read more: Eco friendly building materials

Written by Rick Eisen. November 19, 2018

Rick Eisen is a co-owner and broker for Legacy Lands, LLC. He worked at the Chicago Board of Trade as a commodities broker for nearly 30 years and uses his experience when investing in real estate.