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  • Writer's pictureJim Parks, CFP, AIF

Moving to a Sustainable Community

Are you ready to plant roots somewhere, but a cookie-cutter suburban neighborhood doesn’t sound appealing? You might want to consider an agrihood.

Agrihoods, a fast-growing trend, with several communities scattered across the United States, are eco-friendly neighborhoods built around communal farms.1 They offer a new level of neighborly community, a continuous fresh and healthy food source, and the peace of mind that comes with knowing you are helping the environment. Here are some of the features to consider if an agrihood is appealing to you:

Farming and food. Each agrihood community comes with its own farm. The major advantage to this is secured access to fresh, organic food year-round—without the stress of learning how to farm from scratch. Agrihoods rely on professional farmers to cultivate the crops, offering a risk-free space for community members to benefit from living off the land. That said, you can still expect to try your own hand at farming and gardening by volunteering and participating in community gardens.

Close communities. A secondary focus of agrihoods is the social aspect. Many people moving to an agrihood look forward to the sense of community that accompanies a small, residential area with a common food source, common areas, and plenty of social events. In a world where you are less and less likely to know the people who live in your apartment building or on your street, a return to a simpler and more communal life is appealing. Of course, if you’re looking to move out of the city for privacy and the idea of small-town culture makes you uncomfortable, you might want to consider that when looking at an agrihood.

Environmentally Sustainable. Many Americans are worried about the negative impact their lifestyle is having on the environment—and rightfully so. By having your main food source within walking distance, you reduce the carbon footprint that comes with moving food thousands of miles from farms to stores to homes. Additionally, many agrihoods come equipped with solar farms and other eco-friendly technologies.

Proximity to Green Space. If you love life in the urban jungle, this isn’t the place for you. However, if you’re itching for greater access to parks, trails, and other green space, an agrihood is a great option. And, of course, when it comes to your health, the benefits of fresh air and exercise are hard to argue with.

Ready to buy a home? Whether you choose an agrihood or go a more traditional route, buying your first home is a big step. Email me to discuss what you’re looking for and where you are financially. We can help you figure out the best solutions for you based on your lifestyle, income, and other factors so you can move forward with confidence.

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