I bought 2 acres in the desert and then reached my breaking point.
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 29 ก.ย. 2024
- After leaving Montreal and building a tiny camper trailer, I bought some cheap land in the middle of the desert to set up an off-grid home base "oasis" sort of thing. Then I started to go a little stir-crazy...
Just so brutally honest and humorous at the same time. Great video, perfectly done. Wow, life is hard especially in the desert. I wouldn't make it a day. Thanks so much for sharing.
Thank you very much! I tell ya, once you get a proper shower and an AC that works really well... it gets easier. A bit. ;)
I think I can relate. I bought 6 acres 4 yrs ago. There was potential gardening space. I spent 3 yrs burning & digging . . . I have a garden. Okay, the chickens did help some.
Oh man, yeah.. It's so much work, right? Like, it's one thing to make a garden in your backyard, but when you're starting from actual scratch? I think it's only no big deal if you 100% know what you're in for, which basically means you've done it before. How's your property, garden, and project going these days?
Also, there's a comment somewhere in here -- something about a cat colony and the cats adopting you as one of their own. I understand the sentiment of it, but the self-fabricated image of an off grid colony of cats voting on whether you're allowed to join them is hilarious to me. I'm now imagining something similar with your chickens. But more something like a union of chickens. You've got the supervisor chicken making sure none of the other chickens are violating osha regulations. You're there just like "I don't know what's happening. I just wanted a garden."
I kinda took off with this one. I'm gonna go away now. 😂 Thanks for watching tho. :)
Research Geoff Lawton Greening the desert.
May you receive what you seek. 🙏
Burning?
Chickens are the best. Eggs are good, too.
I turned a high Sierra forest property into a garden that grew corn and tobacco.
Ever seen tobacco in the mountains of California? Me neither.
Chickens.
@@ananda_miaoyin that is awesome. Currently on moving the chickens so that I can garden there.
Thanks for sharing. Real and raw. There's good/bad to any mode of living.
Stay well...one day at a time.
Exactly. There are certainly moments where it's hard to remember the positives of living off grid and in a tiny space and all that, but... it gets easier and easier, and truth is there's some pretty great stuff about it. Thanks for watching. :)
Let's talk about the elephant in the room that I have deduced after many years of observance. Some people - particularly many men can't stand to be alone. I have lived alone for 10 years without much interaction and it really doesn't bother me very much at all. To each their own.
Yup, to each their own. So long as everyone’s doing their own thing and happy, great. :)
Teach me the way brother
@@omar-uu8qofor me it took about two or three years alone before I realized how blessed I was to do absolutely whatever I wanted whenever I wanted. Or to just do nothing at all. It all became good.
I love being alone too.....😊
Strangely satisfying to listen to this guy. Quirky, but I like it! I'm pretty sure you have heard of Bob Wells? He can help alot with questions. Being an off-grid nomad is actually perfect right now considering the state of the world. 😮 Carry on.
Haha, thank you. Yeah, I've watched quite a bit of his content. Back on the property and managing it a bit better now. :)
you remind me of me. similar things. i stopped the buying of "junk" land though. saving up for a real snappy home base. Might be New Mexico might be central Nevada.
Yeah, this was my first time buying land. Now I have a better idea of what I'd be looking for in the future. But hey, it was super cheap! Better to sketch on cheap paper than on an expensive canvas. :)
Outstanding video! I hope you don't give up on it. I wish you great luck.
Thank you! I'm actually back on the property now working on a number of new projects. Every little improvement makes it that much more pleasant.
@derekmctavish That's amazing!! Wise decision I say
Sometimes you don't know how good you have it until you dont.
And sometimes even if you know… you realize you didn’t completely know. Oopsies.
There is a TH-camr that has videos on how he built his tiny home slowly,,, off grid cabin,,,, outside Shower, old fashion and open,,, Tin n wood, with the half walls around n door,,, Stepping stones, bricks to stand on, elevated,,, he got one of those water towers,, He had solar,,,, but if you can get electric power that would be best since ac is best…Or you could do generator n solar, or do all.
I’d love to watch whoever you’re talking about if you can find it. Thanks for watching.
There’s nothing simple about the simple life.
Nailed it.
Man. I know it's hot.
But i wish I'd be in your place
I created myself a solar off-grid system.
I can push a switch, and have light.
It’s sooooo hot. But yeah, I know what you mean. I’ve come to really value what this place and this lifestyle allows for, and accept the discomforts as the “price of rent” as it were. Are you thinking about trying to do something similar?
Amazing! I just installed a small mini split AC today, and I’m a bit annoyed with myself for not doing it sooner; this is so efficient it’s legit something that could be powered off solar. What kind of setup did you do?
@@derekmctavish 200 w panel, a car battery, 300 w inverter, and led bulbs.
Will be upgraded for more power, bigger consumers like tools, maybe a washing machine and a fridge.
@@derekmctavish I don't know what is hotter.
The city, or the desert .....
To me the isolation is way too much. I don't mix well with a lot of people. Capitalism, greed, disrespect for nature and the earth. Rite wing politics. Luckily there are some places that for the most part aren't like that and that's where I spend my time.
Tell me where you’ve found! Honestly I want my current lifestyle more or less but surrounded by people who are less right-wing. Doesn’t have to be a ton, just… a bit less. The isolation has become less of an issue so long as I make a point to travel and visit friends. Right now the weather is the persistent killer.
life long dream of a barely 20 young man,ha ha
Not quite but hey, I’ll take it. :)
Maybe get a second spot for the hottest part of summer
I've considered it. There's stuff not too far away.
Video is a little overdone. Too long.
Tbh, I completely agree with you.
LOL, stay in the city.
🤷♂️
Pro Tip.....They sell things call "travel trailers" with all those things already included......actually there are thousands and thousands for sale as used for very cheap compared to what you would spend building them yourself.....
Bingo, I agree there are many different reasons that folks may want to do their own build, it's custom so you do it your way, the RV's that are out now have poor build quality and last you can save some money but I agree with you, why come on here and complain when you already knew the deal, like this whole video doesn't make sense but then again these you tubers got to get views, no hate just calling this out.
Yeah. But I like building things. :)
🤷♂️ I suppose the idea is that I knew a part of it, didn't know another part of it. I've learned a lot going through these things. :)
Timing in life is crucial. I am 49 at the time of writing this and am pretty fed up with most people's lack of attention and awareness, including friends. By the time I am financially ready to go off grid, I think I'll welcome the isolation. If I had tried this in my '20's/30's, there would have been no way.
Absolutely. Timing, expectations, knowing (a bit) what you're getting yourself into and doing it intentionally, and knowing yourself better in these kinds of situations. I ended up returning to my property and continuing to develop it, but it's been a lot more of an enjoyable challenge this time around. Also knowing the signs of "oooookay, it's time to gtfo for a bit" so you can not get to another breaking point...
@@derekmctavish you never built a plumbing system for a home, and learned about moisture management and condensation. All the vents and pipes are condensing surfaces and it causes the wood to rot. Bathrooms are awful,.and cost a lot of money, and depreciate quickly. If you knew anything about building stick frame construction, you wouldnt complain about pooing in an outhouse. And if you're worried about bugs or snakes, just poo on the ground when no cars are around , shovel it into a bin.
If you had any common sense, you would make a.shower tent. .so you could do yoga while you bathe..you could do hot yoga, and bathe.... which you can't do in a home. Rinse off with cold water. No heat. No cost. Just water. And you get to make your joints healthy.
You need a reality check.
Before you park your hot box in the desert, build a cover, say 40' x 40'. Catch your water off your roof and put solar up there. Use evaporated cooling to save on the amps required. Suppliment your water deficit by hauling or a well. There is still land cheap and very scenic, but not where the sharks are trying to sell.
I did it too. But I went to do it in the Caribbean. I can do without people, but that’s because I’m a very private person. I do need the climate. That! Was my deal breaker outta NYC. 16 years waiting to miss NY or my busy social life. 😅 still waiting. But I can be by the ocean in 35 minutes by car or hike down my own mountain. But the desert 🏜️ is something to be reckon with. My respects and admiration for your resilience.
I think if you are a real independent person, you are at your physical strongest in your 20s and 30s, and are able to push yourself the most mentally as well. It is more enjoyable time to push more and explore limits.
Sure, when you get older, you have the wisdom, but you no longer have the strength. I did all, or most the things I wanted to do when I was young. When I was strong, and independent. You make your own path, we all get old/older, and personal priorities change with family.
I did the same thing in Capitan New Mexico.Bought two acres last year and have killer views.
I bought an acre in Arizona last year, bought an old van fixed it up for camping and headed out. Didn’t take me long to realize that, that’s not what I want to do, at least for now, I still have the van and the acre of land so we’ll see.
I applaud you for giving it a shot, and also for recognizing that the idea wasn't the same as reality. Sometimes it's difficult to let go of something once you've invested time, money, etc. into it. Land is never a bad thing to have sitting around if you need it.
Wanna sell it?
Hey, all you need now is the drugs and alcohol in the van, to blend in with the desert hippies 😄.
Living in the desert is not for everyone. No big deal. You came, you saw, it's not for you. That's cool. You're young, try some other or many other adventures. Personally, I moved to the desert and have been living off grid since I was 65. Just celebrated my ten year anniversary. I love it. Yes, one will endure hardship, set backs and every challenge imaginable and I'm sure there are more to come. Everything in life has a price. One just has to decide if the price is worth it. My home in the desert is an on-going work in progress but this is the life I chose ...it's home and I'll be here for the rest of my life. Happy Trails to you and whatever trails you pursue.
Thank you for the kind and supportive response. 10 years off-grid huh? That's pretty amazing! It's definitely a huge challenge, and I've found there are some pretty big rewards that can come with it, but yeah I think ultimately not for me. I have been back at the property mostly on and a bit off for the last 3 years, and... idk, I think I've definitely explored the experience for what it's worth to me. Ultimately not my thing, but as I am approaching plans to move on, I definitely don't regret the experience. Good luck with your continued off-gridding!
It's good to get some news :) Also I can relate on a bunch of things. I though I'd be fine self isolating at home seeing that I'm pretty comfortable with myself. But not seeing anyone for more than a month was actually harder than I thought. Also I've been thinking a lot about tiny houses and stuff like that and I always come to the conclusion that I'd prefer a small appartment with all the comfort. Anyways, glad to see you're doing well.
It's surprising, isn't it ? While I spend most of my time alone anyway, I do think the human contact means that much more because it's so "infrequent." To not have it at all for days or weeks or months on end... And yeah, comforts like light switches are awfully nice to have. ;)
I'm in yucca
Plant some native trees and some fruits such as Figs, Pomergrante, and Olive. Also passively harvest rainwater into the soil.
This will provide you a purpose and a benefit to the land. 🙏 May you receive what you seek.
That's a great idea, and I appreciate the specific recommendations; certainly seems like you know what you're talking about based on the content of your channel. What funny is having grown up in Havasu, collecting rainwater never seemed viable. But like, I mean, it's literally raining right now. This winter has been a weird one.
@Derek McTavish Any bit of rainwater captured will definitely have a beneficial effect, focus it into the soil and get some pioneering trees such as Mesquite and Palo Verde planted out there. In no time you'll be chilling under some shade and have edible products off the trees.
@@RegenerativeMojave omg that would be just... amazing. Shade, and also the wind blocking aspect of it too. I really appreciate your advice, that's awesome. Honestly, I'd love to pick your brain/consult about some of this -- if you're up for it, shoot me an email? derek@mctavi.sh
I'll certainly scour the contents of your channel, too. Based on the dirt/plants/etc It looks like I'm not far from your area of the Mohave. California?
@@derekmctavish Apologies for the late reply, I will be shooting you an email, I'd love to help where I can.
You are correct about where my site is. I'm in the 29palms region of the Mojave desert.
Your dreaming plant's take water. Only tree that lives here is a mesquite tree. Fruit trees, birds will eat anything you grow, if it grows at all. You need water and lots of it. The San Pedro River basin is the last chance to find water. I would not suggest planting jumping cactus either, it grows here. You remove them with oil, gasoline, and a match.
It really gives you a perspective of what it was like for the Frontiers people. Youngster, you can't be alone right now. This is the time in your life to be clean and social. Enjoy you blessed life.
I've definitely come to realize how much more fun this would be with other people around. Traveling a lot to go see friends and meet new ones has been a nice balance. Thanks for the support!
Wow-- I'm dazzled by your story-telling chops :) Your script-writing, your acting, your camera shots, your editing... Of course, we've known for a decade that you can do all this stuff masterfully, but you've put it all together again :) Even your own camera-laden drone!
I'm glad you are in a more comfortable situation for now, and you're healthy and taking care of yourself both physically and mentally.
Now, to the crux of the matter: It's time for me to mail cards. Whither?!
Oops-- this is james holland lurking behind my nom de TH-cam ;)
I mean, when you asked where to mail the cards... like, who else asks that? "I know who this is!" tang through my head.
And thank you for the kind words. :) Ask me again next October, and I'll try to reply in under 2 years.
Really well-done video.
@Nonewhere Listens Thank you!
I did something similar…2021, left California & bought a piece of property on the side of a mountain in NW Montana. Here, I’m inside most of the 5 months during winter. Lived in my converted schoolbus, just generator electricity, no running water, wood stove heat. Legit snowed in last winter, right now welcoming the first melting. Down in the valley? No snow, life is running as usual. I love solitude, but love people, too. I’ll keep this place & continue to upgrade it…but looking for a location in the valley, and will spend 4-5 months a year on the road starting this coming winter. Good video!
Good plan.
Sounds like a great plan moving forward. Have you been doing that straight since 2021 ? What do you do in the not-5-months ?
This is necessary. Thank you for sharing this reality. I've got some land and I'm hoping to make a hermitage, but I will be using it as a short term escape from my urban life, not as a living situation, in part because I don't think I could do well over an extended period of time living in the in-process build.
Anyway, I really appreciate you sharing this and helping show some of the reality. I know these can be hard, and I saw the reddit holier-than-though crowd giving you crap, but this is amazingly valuable to people who are considering this. Thank you =)
Dude, thanks! This video was mostly meant as a fun update for friends, but I've been amazed/honored to hear how it's resonating with people.
It's a really fun thing to do, and I'd totally encourage you to do it, especially as it sounds like you have a far healthier take on it than I did. Short-term escape is a lot different than full-time living, and I think that's probably the best way to step into it.
I'd love to see progress on your project when you start. :)
@@derekmctavish Well, I got the land a few weeks ago (and I did go check it out beforehand) I think my next step is just spending some time camping on it and giving myself time to devise a site plan, so it'll be slow going, but I'll let you know how it goes.
I think there can be value to going full time, but it's not the path that works for me right now.
Thanks again =)
@@jamesbarros950 that sounds like a great first step and way to approach it. Not to mention seeing it first was probably a wise move. :P
Please do keep me updated! Seriously. And I'd me more than happy to share whatever knowledge I've gained from my experiences.
Ok...sooooo you discovered that deserts are really hot and dusty and there are no services.....and no tatoo/piercing parlours nearby or Starbucks or hipster cafes either???? Say it aint so!!!
I was right there mentally 2.5 years ago. I had spent 5 years building a Homestead in southern Colorado. We were pretty comfy after years of growing pains. But work on the homestead was never ending. We decided to sell because the market was fire and we stood to make enough money to get into a real (legal) house. So that’s what we did. Now we have lived in suburbia in western Colorado for 2.5 years. My take away is I still have to do all the tasks of the homestead but now I have to work a full time job to pay the mortgage. Is it nice not having to haul water? Yes very nice. Is it nice not having to chop a winters worth of fire wood? Yes very nice. But the lack of overhead on the homestead was pure gold. We could live comfortably on less than 1/2 our current income. We had money and time to travel. We got many visitors to the homestead, suburbs not so many visitors. Overall I don’t regret starting or selling the homestead. I learned a lot and I am planning on starting another homestead in the future. If you can survive the first two years the subsequent years will pay off. Just my .2c ❤
Nice off grid property in the desert w/ either an established well, or a local HOA well can be found...Yeah, it costs a bit more; but can be done. Also, property in the higher level desert environment (5000' & up), is much more bearable in the summer. Think, Northern AZ/ Southern UT border area.
Yup. I'm at 3500 ft, and that 1500 ft difference up in the mountains is huge. I camped in summer in Northern AZ and Southern UT near Kanab and it was really pleasant.
I live in Costa Rica renting a 7 bedroo,/5 bath house with 4 car garage on 23 acres I rent for $163 a month. All the water/sewer and trash costs $6 a month. Electric between $12 and $15. Cellphone $4, Internet $12. Perfect weather, it has never been colder than 54F never hotter than 87F.
Sounds like you've got an *awesome* situation going on! Right now AZ is pretty nice, but pretty nice now means hell soon. :)
@@derekmctavish. On the land I grow enough food to feed over 150 people. Cultivated enough for a good 500. Course I have been living outside the US over 10 years and a rental like this won't be found for a while. Expect a 3 bedroom/2 bath house renting for $180 a month or less though. Biggest thing is freedom though. Americans will soon realize after a few weeks in practically any other country how little freedom you actually have. Crime and drugs are next to non existent. But choose that lifestyle all bets are off for being a victim. Mostly by other Americans.
@@derekmctavish Added advantages. With 335 days or more outside the US each calandar year, is a $107,300 US Income Tax Exemption. For $65 a month, botrh my wife and I have National Health Care covering 100$Practically all speak English, just shy and need more practice.
Yes July and August in Arizona is hell on earth.
Cheapest of all is Nicaragua where average household income is $150 a month. A 3 bed/2 bath
house rents for #100 a month. A 60 hour a week, cook, maid will be $80 a month. If that's too much, room and board runs $40 a month, beakfast and dinner, you are on your own for lunch.
US tells you of all the Freedom you have, but fact is you have none.
Wow, that sounds amazing. That's a big disadvantage of where I am -- can be quite tricky to grow stuff.
Holy crap, I didn't know about the tax thing. Interesting. Indeed, there's a lot going on here that directly or indirectly limits out freedom. By like, a lot.
I think you are kinda spoiled.... but I will be moving to 11 acres in Arizona so I can't really talk. I hope I can cope better than you 🙏🏽
6100 ft elevation, already live in an RV. Love, love, love being by myself...
Will let you know. Sure I'll be able to relate when I get all moved in 👍🏽
Good luck with your venture. I hope it goes well for you - at that elevation the temps should be a lot nicer to contend with. But if you ever need to rant about off grid living, you know where to comment. :)
👏🏻👏🏻👍🏼
i can so relate after my own experience! running hot water is a must!! trying to rebuild life but with no job, i'm disintegrating.
Riiight? For some people it’s some other “luxury,” but I’m glad you get it. I hope things start to get better for you; feel free to reach out any time. I get it.
Are you vehicle dwelling?
You gave up too easy come on man lol
I'm back at it! Needed a break -- it's been a lot easier to go back now that I've already built the little house. Starting from actual scratch was a lot more intense than I guess I was anticipating.
Thank you man, I appreciate it, this video has helped me to really re-think about my adventure going off the grid here is Southern CA even tho my 2.3 acres is located in a main Road, and only 10 minutes to the tourist Barstow Oulets, I bought this land with a cabin and a trailer and it does have a well that produces lots of fresh water, but the fact that it is the high desert and weather can be harsh at some points, watching your video regarding this is not just for everyone it kind of gave me a better idea of what some fears i kind of imaging when living this way. I just think that in order to live off the grid you need to have a back up plan and some funds and savings so you can snap out of it, when necessary, but not having neither or it can be devastating in someone's life, specially individuals like me that love AC and fresh running water without the hassles, lol! thank you for your honesty man, keep the good work and lets see if you go at it again and keep us posted how it go!
I’m guessing bc you’re a muso/ creative, and good looking, that you also craved the attention you no doubt used to get.
I’m writing this 2 years on, so just wondering where you’re at in life now…
It's an interesting point actually -- subtle/subconscious validation from people around us can do a lot. Good stuff to think on. :) 2 years later, I'm balancing between improving the property and traveling a lot to visit friends and see new places. Thanks for watching.
There are so many sides to alternate way of living. I love the idea of the freedom and flexibility one can achieve. But it comes with ups and downs, straight and curve balls, laughter and tears. Everyman must know their limit and it seems like you know yours. Its not all unicorn and rainbows.Thanks for sharing your reality.
Thanks for the supportive words. This experience helped me find my limit for this thing, and also to recognize the signs as I'm getting close to the limit. Now it's a lot easier to be here and know when to back off, travel, etc. I know some would expect a "purist" attitude towards living off-grid -- all or nothing- but I don't really stand by that. A break here and there is nice.
GET MARRIED, MAKES LIFE A LOT BETTER!!!
🤣 I'm sure, but this video isn't exactly a good selling point for "join me, it's great out here!" haha
Said no Married Sucker ever 5 years later😂
The one thing you'll never hear TH-cam Van Lifer say is. I just punked you. I actually live in a luxury condo downtown... Where I sleep eat cook and edit the van life videos I make when I actually drive my van to places where I pretend to live. Yeah . They just don't tell ya that.
Usually not, indeed. There's a lot of image built up around the whole thing.
Where's your boyfriend? He didn't want to join you?
What a zinger.
Yep... living out in an isolated OVEN would actually be HELL at least 6 months out of every year ...
how do you put up with the negative comments? and you are so kind to even give them the time of day and respond...and in a kind manner. I'd just delete/block them. PEOPLE....If ya don't like the content, no one is forcing you to watch it....move along little donkies....ahhahaha - great video! you are keeping it REAL!
Thanks for noticing that. It's easy to write replies to kind and supportive comments, but the negative ones take some effort. For the most part, I figure something about what they're saying is a truth for them, and it's not my place to invalidate it -- and more so it was strong enough for them that they needed to say it out loud. That's all cool. At that point it has nothing to do with me or my videos. :)
I've a friend that lives in a great " TINY " little town ! He has to drive 125 miles to wal-mart ... I have 5 of them within 10 miles of my house... 2 are 2 miles away.
Ouch. 125 miles is a LONG ways. I'm about 25 miles each way, so it's not too bad. But you definitely had to do some planning. I used to be walking distance to a walmart.
Dannnng 125 miles 🤐🤐🤐 no way to me it is only 15 minutes walking to Walmart here, and even less to Target that's walking not driving which is less than 5 minutes, but tbh I think this Land owners like me should focus in fixing and preparing these places for Airbnb hosting, it is a great way to enjoy it, when not rented you can spend a weekend and relaxing away from civilization, the lot I owned is only 10 minutes to Walmart, Starbucks, Raining Canes and so forth, but when you drive into it, it looks like it is in an isolated area lol! but gosh man 125 miles to Walmart so help me God.....
Thanks for your honest assessments of the "off-grid" lifestyle.
And thank you for watching. :)
We've raised 5 beautiful children in the desert off grid. 3 of which are bi lingual and NEVER touched A dam cell phone. 4 of 5 speak 10 or more languages, it's by FAR the best decision we've ever made
What you need for off grid in Aridzona. UPS to delivery stuff, Water, and A/C units. The only reason any of you are in the hell hole is because your A/C unit works. The entire South West is populated bye one thing, the A/C unit.
Just wasted 5 min of my time
Glad it wasn’t the full 10.
That's the beauty of austerity. It helps us appreciate and actually "see" again. Like living in another country for awhile. Your antenna are fully functioning upon return. Gratitude for conveniences is good for body + soul. Hope you are enjoying life now. Loved the vid.
Thank you very much. It's also given me a fresh look at what to prioritize upon returning to the property. First thing was a shower. :)
If you deal with chronic stress you will love to spend 90 to 100% of your time alone, trust me. I live in the state capital surrounding my neighbors, family, friends and I still spend 90 to 100% of time to myself so going out in the middle of no place will be lower cost of living and enjoy being out in nature, win/win situation! I am sure there will be hard times and failures living off grid however you will have that connected to the grid as well...thanks for sharing!
It’s definitely not something I’ll claim to understand. As it stands I already like spending a lot of time to myself, and as I’ve found some peace with living out here, I’ve come to understand that part of myself more. But sometimes… it’s still really nice to go back to Montréal or NYC and be around people and friends. But not all the time - at least for me.
@@derekmctavish totally understand that! I've been way more social lately and it's nice as well!
I can see you put alot of work into this, Bravo you deserve more subscribers.
Thank you, that's very kind. I've gotta earn the trust of the YT algorithm by continuing to post videos more often than every couple years, then... maybe?
One year I planted Bermuda grass at the ranch here, I can pump the 1,000 gallons a minute to water it. It was August. and it did not rain one drop here until the next august came. I you think you can depend on rain fall here, rethink it. Water first in Aridzona.
dude, your videos really need a beginning, middle and a end or be more vibrant.
🤷♂️ working on it. Totally agree that when I go back to this one it’s like omg get to the point already. It drags on. :)
the word (tiny) needs to stop ! good video ..just sayin
It's kinda overdone, yeah. I just haven't found something else that communicates the same idea -- suggestions ?
More junk and crap cluttering the otherwise beautiful open desert. Ditch the crap, buy a suitable vehicle, and move from place to place, leaving no trace, adapting to nature. Respect the land.
Thanks bro I am thinking of moving out there. If you like living out there slowly build yourself a basic home. 1300square feet will give you enough room to move around and cook. praise
April through September is a LONNNNNG time to stay in an oven.
crispy!
Last month i tried living in my SUV for a week in west texas. It was not comfortable. But it felt so good to do. If I did it right im sure i could do this.
now, just get some friends and maybe family to buy the next surrounding plots and you have neighbors
Actually, I am quite lucky that my parents live 20 minutes away. Most of my friends are still ehh, let's say at least 1,000 miles away if not quite a bit more.
Dude? You are absolutely hilarious! You are thoroughly correct though, you should be surrounded by people because if you were to waste away in the desert like a pet frog that got lost inside a home and was waiting to dry up, your true creative talents and exceptional natural gifts would be squandered. Only to amuse ungrateful plants, insects, snakes, and scorpions... Although regrettably these are present in our human populations and are a compelling cause to leave.
Thank you for sharing your frank anti-glamour and reality finer psychological experiences, which most people are unaware of until the novelty of their 3-week (or 3-year, in the case of off-grid gym memberships) has worn off.
To live off the grid alone and to love it, one must have it in their DNA.
I can't imagine anyone as gifted as Leonardo, Brad Pitt, or Elvis wanting to make this move as they feel appreciated...
Appreciate You Mannnn!!!
Don't forget the rabbits! They're good company out here so long as they're not chewing on extension cords. Seriously, thanks for watching and leaving such an encouraging comment. I've been blown away by how great the comments have generally been except for that one time I was called an "overfed urban gnome" but honestly, that's hilarious.
Hey man, It's been a while since the last time i saw you at the Ye Olde Orchard in Montreal ! Awesome projects you have there, And nice editing. Here's a comment to help with the algorithm
Cheers from the North
Yeahhh, haven't been in Montreal for a year now, and I hadn't been going to YOO all that much. I'll give you a shout when I'm there again (borders open and all.) How you been?
Never buy land in the desert until you have stayed in the desert for at least 8 months this will give you enough time figure out if you can do it or not
Exactly like dude is from there and didn't figure this out already 🤔🤔🤔
115F is a lot better than 125F (where I grew up) but still a bit much. It's a fun adventure anyway. :)
You're not wrong. :)
Hahaha you Crack me up just buy land and move out there by yourself as a guy who likes people. But I'm looking to buy land in oklahoma for campers!
I don't like overthinking big decisions, but eh... sometimes maybe I could have been a little less impulsive. ;)
Times are a changin since aren't they?
Off grid practice is golden.
Honestly I think back to even when I made this video... how much I've learned since then is invaluable.
I love hearing the real scoop about living in the desert! Your honesty is so refreshing! I watch several YT channels about people building their home in the desert and they rarely show the bad parts. I like how you shined a light onto those areas. Good luck to you.
channel--frugal off grid, and others.
Thanks, I’ll check it out.
News flash you should always rent off grid places or buy an RV in case you don't like it 😜 you just move.😂 You should never buy real estate or land in any country until you lived there renting for at least 1 year
I also like Ppl being social.
The solution is live 1 hr away from the city so you can always have a balanced life ❤🎉
Yeah but is was sooooo cheap! Haha, but no you’re totally right. I sorta knew what I was in for in terms of the desert. Not so much the off grid. It’s been an amazing learning and growth experience tho, so 🤷
Bro saved me from buying 2 acres of land from in a desert, I would most likely react the same way since I used to live in a tiny mobile home, made music until I felt claustrophobic.
Unless you *really* know what you're getting into and are very OK with it, I'd say desert off grid is a bad choice. Being stuck inside during the summers is a surefire way to feel claustrophobic.
😂everything is always dirty😂😂😂4 yrs off grid for me it really makes you Appreciate all the conveniences and comforts dont it?!Curious where's your land do you still own it? Wanting to buy 2 -5 acers in nm
Absolutely! Then there's also a transition that happens where any normal conveniences feel like absolute luxuries.
another problem... IF one stays put... One will eventually have all the clogs/things surrounding them just like in that City !! ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhh !!!
It's a good point. Watching this place grow and get more crowded over even the last few years has been crazy.
That’s exactly what I want to do I can get 36 acres for super cheep for 28.900
Sell everything that I don’t want to bring and live cheep until we die but my wife isn’t
Ready yet so now we wait but I really think I should just buy the property now before it’s gone what do you think ? I can sell two of my river lots here and have the cash I need to buy it right out decisions, decisions
Make sure you are prepared for how much work it'll be, but go for it! Good luck.
Dude, you didnt want off grid living. You really wanted a 80 foot Winnebego, parked in a KOA campground eith a manicured lawn, next to a grocery store and mall. Go home. Come back when you have the right knowledge and mindset.
I didn’t know they made them 80ft long. Can you pull that with a Prius?
Life of doing things old school.. cold turkey.. almost never works. See people move to Baja and Anza Borrego area and they are used to access, unlimited everything.." I will just run to the store".. and they seldom realize that they are not going to the store for anything in particular, instead to be around other people..The deserts of California Arizona, Nevada,New Mexico and Texas filled with abandoned everything.. people think they can just go Gilligan's Island and it seldom works.. have friends that went on propane or grocery runs in town and they stay gone longer and longer.. just a suggestion it's probably better just to leave a note encouraging whoever breaks into your shed and trailer to not trash it.. locking anything up in the desert is just a recipe for heartbreak.. don't leave anything you want..
If you don't know what you're in for... yeah, it's difficult. That's what happened here. Upon returning to the property, I was a bit more prepared and have managed to maintain a decent balance. And I've been fortunate to have neighbours that do a great job keeping an eye out for me when I'm gone.
It was a very nicely done video! wish more people would see it
Thanks for watching and for the encouragement. :)
Idealism always is your own facade
A lot to be said for looking at things as they are, not as you wish they'd be. Yup.
I lobe my 22 acres. Lol. Roght in the Mohave desert. It aint for the faint. But nothing happens over night. Of course its hot its the desert. But coming from Columbia sc and their Heat, Its nothing. Lol
Yeah that’s a totally different heat isn’t it? I was in northern Florida at one point and yikes. How long have you been working on your 22 acres?
"I LOVE YA" - You are LIVING the life we (MEN) need! You did not reach the 2 acer leavel - mentally - but you prove
that the level of thinking has to be at lease 10 time higher or we as Men will fail to understand what our goal is.
Thanks for the support. It took a bit and a few other adventures, but I'm back on the property now with more of a "I'm ready for it" mentality. When I first came out here and did this it was almost an "accident." An impulsive endeavour.
It's not for everyone. It's hard work 24/7 - 365.
And a few extra days a year, just to be safe. ;)
I need to see another update. How are things going for you? I'm fully intrigued in what you did with the land, if anything.
I've definitely done stuff with the land. I posted a bit of an update, and I'll have some more that focus on the property. But hey, I've got a washing machine and a hot shower now, that's a big improvement!
@@derekmctavish can't beat a shower and clean clothes! Glad to hear your doing well and ready to watch the journey.
Derek McTavish : I spend a bit of time in Death Valley camping and talking to people who live off grid in the desert and even the mid 50’s loner types with 10 plus years of living there have some sort of community in terms of gatherings, playing music etc .
I know I couldn’t live on my own in the desert without some sort of connection with other like minded weirdos and artists to interact with.
Good luck in your endeavour!
@@robford3211 Yeah man, I think you nailed it. Like I'm not literally in the middle of nowhere -- there are people around. But they're not really the same kind of like-minded weirdos as me. Like don't get me wrong, I've met some great people, but there's still a sort of gap.
Thank you for the encouragement! :)
Where is your income coming from?
I have a full-time job and have worked remote for 6 years. :)
eye opening. whats your advice to someone thinking about buying a house, and living in a trailer in the yard while renting out the main house? Do you think the isolation and claustrophobia would still be bad? I figure i could put in the lease that i can come in the house for bathroom/cooking -- assuming the house is structured in a way where it makes sense and is not overly invasive.
Thanks for watching! I think the claustrophobia depends a lot on the particular trailer (mine was 50 sq ft, unusually small) In terms of isolation, I guess that depends mostly on your lifestyle and where you want to do it; the isolation came largely from the fact I was in the middle of the desert.
I'd always suggest trying it out; live in a trailer for a week, a month -- however long it takes to get a real feel for it. Then make a choice from there.
In most places in the USA, that is illegal. Besides, the renters will destroy your house and cause you misery, will not pay the rent and will lie, lie, lie before they move in. If you share the space you will find misery like you never knew. You will hate the renters with every fiber of your being. I've been through it all. It never works.
Off grid living, with women, is tough.
Looks like you're in Pahrump, NV? I was just tramping the desert out there yesterday looking for 1/2-1 acre to do exactly the same thing. I found out that the planning commission is cracking down on allowing people to put anything they want on their own land. They want a house there even though there's no electricity, water, sewer available. I think you can use a shed as long as it's used for clean up of the land, like tools, etc. Prices are outrageous now, $5,000-10,000 for 1/2 acre. (April 2023) Even a tiny home has to be a minimum of 700 square feet.
Actually I’m on the west side of Arizona. As of right now the restrictions are pretty relaxed. Good luck with your plans!
Young man and that’s right young man so have your weekend or summer time or winter time vaca spot and u need to get bac to life start working again find u a new squeeze and live your life
never stopped working; I've worked remote for 8 years which has allowed for all sorts of adventures -- good and less that good. But you're right, I think this is definitely turning into a fair-weather retreat (that means winter for sure) while I go off and do other things during the stupid-heat.
Why would anyone buy land in the desert. There is no WATER or SOIL for planting 😅😅😅😅
🤣 I mean, you're not wrong!
I do a lot of hiking in the desert. I love it, but I also don’t live off grid, but to each his own.
Oh yeah. Don't get me wrong, the desert is beautiful. With the off-grid stuff+the desert+summertime though sometimes those ingredients stack up to be a bit heavy.
I like the idea, but I think I'd be miserable after a few weeks. Like how I liked the idea of working from home until I had to do it during the pandemic and realized how lonely it could be
Hey, if you can already know you’d hate it you’re a step beyond where I was at! It’s been a process to find peace and even perhaps some joy in it. :)
Most people could NEVER do this ! Most people get bored IN a city or a place that has EVERYTHING.
There's almost something to be said about boredom because of too much stimulation. Too many options. It's the same thing on opposite ends.
What did you do for income?
I have a full time job I’ve done remotely for 6 years now. :)
i walked away from one of my attempts but learned you must install the whole system- full solar array- very little need for generator- if filled in teh evening generator would run all night- or you can add another fuel tank to it, water line break- it happens even in apartments. dust- gravel or mix cement into the soil. howver it still sucks, teh isolation sucks. i finally got my place, and im in a trailer in tenn, with water, electric, gas fiber opttic internet and no restrictions. but the locals suck if you aint frum round here they take issue... so over two years there is no one to talk to. Unless i go to thier pagan chuches.
Man, I’m really hearing everything you’re saying. If I had put solar in from the start things would have been different. But it was always like “I’m not gonna invest because I won’t be here that much longer.” 4 years later… yeah. And yes, the isolation, the lack of like-minded and/or welcoming community is probably the most difficult. Have you found some sort of connection where you’re at?
Such scathing nasty comments suck bad I hope their bots.. I bet if you had the Cloverfield lane situation it wouldn't be them haters hating so damn much.. they have a John badman club here in Oklahoma goes deep
I really appreciate this. Some of the negative comments are honestly pretty funny because they're pretty creative. Others are like, yeah... I don't know how to respond to that. Cheer!
Thank you for sharing your experience. You are So Brave. I’m glad that you are listening to yourself and taking good care of yourself. Do what’s best for you. Stay well. God bless you.💐
Always listen to yourself. Absolutely. Sometimes it’s just a matter of being able to quiet everything else down enough that you can hear yourself.
Thanks for watching.
mother nature ruins many dreams
No kidding. I moved back to the property, and since then I've had to replace the roof of my little house, do a (sorta) proper foundation to prevent the house from sinking, had a temporary carport rip itself out of the ground and blow across the property due to the wind. It's continued to be quite the adventure, discouraging at times, great at others.
Yeah, you need to invite a few people to share and enjoy your dream. Work together on a main living area compound. Go underground if you can, earth bag home etc. Done right it can be a wonderful retreat area.
Totally agree! Trouble is... after my friends see this video they all get scared away from the idea! 🤣
Land without Water is Dirt
What’s land without dirt?
Wow, what a great dose of truth. Your video should be a “must watch” for anyone interested in off grid living. I tend to be introverted and enjoy being alone but often find myself in coffee shops gleaning social comfort through background conversations. At least you explored off grid isolation, and although it didn’t deliver the experience for which your expectations hoped, it was an extremely valuable experiment that helped to shape your future. Hats off to you! 😊
I can totally relate. I still prefer spending a ton of time by myself, but sometimes just going to a cafe or restaurant to be around other people is nice. This has been and continues to be a valuable experience, so... not what I expected, but perhaps more? Thanks for the encouragement!
Dude next time check the annual Temps Before you relocate!
Oh I did. Trouble is... they're not accurate and I didn't take much freedom in interpreting the numbers. Oops.
There’s a reason why the land was for sale in the first place. Lol.
🤣 You're absolutely 100% not wrong.
I am glad you did it. And perhaps that was the biggest point of it all. Just having the fortitude to just do it. I have lived off grid in the desert for nearly a year straight. What got to me was my wonder-lust. My feet always itch to go to the next place. But, I don't hesitate recommending the off grid experience to young people. Try it at least once. Well worth the life experience.
I can totally relate to this. If I spend too much time here, I'm itching to go elsewhere. But it's nice to come back to and settle down for a couple months at a time. And it's such a fascinating learning experience, eh? What did you have going on in your off-grid setup?
The lament of an overfed urban gnome accustomed to convenience.
I won't deny this is probably the single most creative insult I've ever received. Bravo!
Living on site and building everything diy sounds like a nightmare.
Definitely in retrospect… yeah, made the whole thing much harder than it needed to be.
ive spent some time looking thru landmoto sites , very interesting ....yur vid is not disheartening ..lol..just unfinished story , go again .
Thanks for the encouragement! I have since gone back to the property and done more with it. At this point, I think I'm ready to move on/back to society, but definitely in a more intentional kind of way. If you're into it, I'd say go for it! Just maybe... ideally... pick a more reasonable climate? ;)