Are you dreaming of off-grid living in a sustainable, eco-friendly home? Look no further than Taos, New Mexico, where Earthship homes are not just a novelty, but a way of life. Earthship homes for sale in Taos, NM, offer a unique opportunity to own a piece of sustainable architecture that blends seamlessly with the stunning high-desert landscape. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about finding your dream Earthship in Taos.

What is an Earthship?

Before diving into the specifics of Earthship homes for sale in Taos, NM, let’s understand what exactly an Earthship is. An Earthship is a type of passive solar earth shelter that is made of both natural and recycled materials. Designed and promoted by architect Michael Reynolds, these homes are built to function autonomously, minimizing reliance on traditional utilities and maximizing self-sufficiency.

Key Features of Earthships:

• Thermal Mass: Earthships utilize thermal mass, typically in the form of earth-packed tires, to regulate indoor temperatures. The earth absorbs and stores heat during the day, releasing it slowly at night, which helps maintain a consistent and comfortable living environment year-round.
• Passive Solar Heating and Cooling: Earthships are designed to take advantage of passive solar energy. Large south-facing windows capture sunlight during the winter months, while strategically placed vents and overhangs provide natural cooling during the summer.
• Water Harvesting: Earthships collect rainwater and snowmelt from the roof and store it in cisterns. This water is then filtered and used for drinking, bathing, and other household purposes.
• Wastewater Treatment: Earthships employ a closed-loop wastewater treatment system. Greywater (water from sinks, showers, and washing machines) is filtered and reused for flushing toilets and irrigating indoor plants. Blackwater (water from toilets) is treated in a separate system, typically involving a constructed wetland.
• Food Production: Many Earthships incorporate interior greenhouses or garden spaces, allowing residents to grow their own food year-round.
• Recycled Materials: Earthships are often built using recycled materials, such as tires, bottles, and cans, reducing waste and minimizing the environmental impact of construction.

Living in an Earthship means embracing a lifestyle that is in harmony with nature, reducing your carbon footprint, and enjoying greater self-sufficiency. For those seeking Earthship homes for sale in Taos, NM, this is an opportunity to invest in a sustainable future.

Why Taos, NM is the Perfect Location for Earthships

Taos, New Mexico, isn't just a picturesque town; it's practically the Earthship capital of the world. The climate, landscape, and community make it an ideal location for these innovative homes. When you're looking at Earthship homes for sale in Taos, NM, you're not just buying a house; you're investing in a lifestyle and a community. Taos offers a unique blend of environmental consciousness and artistic expression, making it a haven for those seeking a sustainable and creative way of life.

Favorable Climate

Taos boasts over 300 days of sunshine per year, making it perfect for passive solar heating. The high-desert climate, with its hot days and cool nights, allows Earthships to efficiently regulate indoor temperatures using thermal mass. This reduces the need for conventional heating and cooling systems, saving energy and money. The dry climate also makes rainwater harvesting more efficient, as there is less evaporation.

Abundant Land

The wide-open spaces around Taos provide ample land for building Earthships. Many properties offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and mesas, creating a sense of tranquility and connection to nature. The availability of land also means that you can often find larger parcels, allowing you to create a self-sufficient homestead with gardens, orchards, and livestock.

Supportive Community

Taos has a thriving community of Earthship builders, residents, and enthusiasts. This community provides invaluable support and resources for those who are new to Earthship living. You'll find workshops, educational programs, and networking opportunities that can help you learn about Earthship design, construction, and maintenance. The local community is passionate about sustainability and is committed to supporting the growth of the Earthship movement.

Earthship Biotecture Headquarters

Taos is home to Earthship Biotecture, the company founded by Michael Reynolds, the architect behind the Earthship concept. This means that you have access to expert advice, design services, and construction assistance right in your backyard. Earthship Biotecture offers tours of its demonstration Earthships, allowing you to see firsthand how these homes function and to learn about the principles of sustainable living. The presence of Earthship Biotecture in Taos solidifies its status as the epicenter of Earthship innovation and development.

Growing Demand

The demand for sustainable housing is growing, and Taos is at the forefront of this movement. As more people become aware of the environmental and economic benefits of Earthship living, the demand for Earthship homes for sale in Taos, NM is likely to increase. This makes investing in an Earthship not only a sustainable choice but also a potentially sound financial decision.

Finding Earthship Homes for Sale in Taos, NM

So, you're ready to dive in and find your own Earthship in Taos? Great! Here's how to navigate the market and find the perfect property. Discovering Earthship homes for sale in Taos, NM requires a different approach than traditional real estate. These homes are unique, and the process of buying one can be a bit different. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you find your dream Earthship.

Online Real Estate Portals

Start your search on popular real estate websites. While Earthships are unique, they are still listed on major platforms like Zillow, Realtor.com, and Trulia. Use specific keywords like "Earthship," "sustainable home," or "off-grid living" to narrow your search. Be sure to set your location to Taos, New Mexico, and surrounding areas.

Local Real Estate Agents

Working with a local real estate agent who specializes in Earthships or sustainable properties is highly recommended. These agents have a deep understanding of the local market and can help you find properties that meet your specific needs and preferences. They can also guide you through the unique aspects of buying an Earthship, such as financing, inspections, and permits.

Earthship Biotecture Website

Check the Earthship Biotecture website for listings of Earthships for sale in Taos. They often have exclusive listings that are not available on other platforms. The website also provides valuable information about Earthship design, construction, and living, which can help you make an informed decision.

Networking

Attend local events and workshops related to Earthships and sustainable living. This is a great way to meet people who are knowledgeable about the Earthship community and who may be aware of properties that are not yet on the market. Networking can also help you find contractors, designers, and other professionals who specialize in Earthship construction and maintenance.

Driving Around

Sometimes the best way to find Earthship homes for sale in Taos, NM is simply to drive around the area. Look for Earthships in the outskirts of town and in the surrounding rural areas. Keep an eye out for "For Sale" signs and don't be afraid to knock on doors and ask around. You might just stumble upon your dream property.

Consider Building Your Own

If you can't find an existing Earthship that meets your needs, consider building your own. This gives you the opportunity to customize the design to your exact specifications and to incorporate the latest sustainable technologies. Earthship Biotecture offers design and construction services, and there are also many independent contractors who specialize in Earthship building.

Financing Your Earthship

Financing an Earthship can be a bit more challenging than financing a conventional home, but it is certainly possible. Understanding your options is key when looking at Earthship homes for sale in Taos, NM. Here are some tips to help you secure financing for your Earthship.

Research Lenders

Start by researching lenders who are familiar with sustainable properties and off-grid living. Some lenders specialize in financing unconventional homes and may be more willing to approve a loan for an Earthship. Look for lenders who offer green mortgages or energy-efficient mortgage programs.

Highlight the Benefits

When applying for a loan, be sure to highlight the environmental and economic benefits of Earthship living. Emphasize the energy savings, water conservation, and reduced reliance on traditional utilities. Provide documentation to support your claims, such as energy bills and water usage records.

Get an Appraisal

Obtain an appraisal from an appraiser who is experienced in valuing sustainable properties. A qualified appraiser will be able to accurately assess the value of the Earthship, taking into account its unique features and benefits. This can help you secure a loan that is sufficient to cover the purchase price.

Consider Owner Financing

In some cases, the seller may be willing to offer owner financing. This can be a good option if you are unable to obtain a traditional loan. Owner financing typically involves a down payment and monthly payments to the seller over a specified period of time.

Grants and Incentives

Explore grants and incentives that are available for sustainable building and off-grid living. Many government agencies and non-profit organizations offer financial assistance to homeowners who are investing in energy-efficient technologies and sustainable practices. Research programs at the federal, state, and local levels.

Living the Earthship Lifestyle

Living in an Earthship is more than just owning a unique home; it's about embracing a sustainable lifestyle. By considering Earthship homes for sale in Taos, NM, you're thinking of a different way of life. Here are some things to keep in mind.

Self-Sufficiency

Earthships are designed to be self-sufficient, but it takes effort to maintain this autonomy. Be prepared to manage your own water, energy, and waste systems. Learn about rainwater harvesting, solar power, and wastewater treatment. Develop the skills and knowledge necessary to maintain your Earthship and to troubleshoot any problems that may arise.

Connection to Nature

Living in an Earthship means being more connected to nature. You'll be more aware of the weather, the seasons, and the natural resources that you rely on. Spend time outdoors, gardening, hiking, and exploring the surrounding landscape. Embrace the beauty and tranquility of the natural world.

Community Involvement

Get involved in the Earthship community. Attend workshops, volunteer your time, and connect with other Earthship residents. Share your knowledge and experiences, and learn from others. The Earthship community is a supportive and welcoming group of people who are passionate about sustainable living.

Continuous Learning

Sustainable living is an ongoing learning process. Stay up-to-date on the latest technologies and practices. Attend conferences, read books, and take online courses. Continuously seek to improve your knowledge and skills, and to refine your sustainable lifestyle.

Simplicity

Embrace simplicity in your life. Reduce your consumption, minimize your waste, and focus on the things that truly matter. Living in an Earthship can help you to declutter your life and to appreciate the simple pleasures of nature, community, and self-sufficiency.

Conclusion

Finding Earthship homes for sale in Taos, NM is an exciting journey towards sustainable living. With its favorable climate, supportive community, and innovative spirit, Taos is the perfect place to call an Earthship home. By following the tips outlined in this guide, you can find your dream Earthship and begin living a more sustainable, self-sufficient, and fulfilling life. Embrace the Earthship lifestyle, and become part of a growing movement towards a more sustainable future.