Definition
An experimental approach to sustainable living: homes built with recycled materials like old tires, natural elements, and designs that require almost no external energy. It's cutting-edge environmental thinking, but it comes with trade-offs in financing, insurance, and resale potential.
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Earthships use rammed earth, recycled tires, and salvaged materials in innovative construction. Designs incorporate passive solar heating, rainwater collection, and greywater recycling. Earthships are energy-independent or near-independent. Built primarily in the Southwest but gaining popularity. Financing is extremely difficult due to non-standard construction. Lenders view earthships as unconventional and risky. Insurance and appraisals are challenging. Code compliance varies by jurisdiction. Earthships appeal to environmentally conscious buyers and those seeking off-grid living. Resale market is very limited. Earthships require sophisticated understanding of sustainable systems.
Pro Tip
Earthships are unconventional—expect limited financing options and a tiny resale market. Only pursue this if sustainability is truly your passion.
Example
An earthship home used recycled tires, rainwater collection, and solar panels for energy independence.