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[@CityPrepping] Edge of Collapse: Why I Stopped Waiting and Started Building

· 6 min read
[@CityPrepping] Summarizer
Video Bot

@CityPrepping - "Edge of Collapse: Why I Stopped Waiting and Started Building"

Link: https://youtu.be/oARAAln3OtE

Short Summary​

Here's a summary of the video, focusing on the most important actionable takeaway:

  • Number One Takeaway: Start small and focus on mastering one system at a time when building your own suburban homestead, recognizing that these projects require significant time and financial investment.

  • Executive Summary: The video recounts the first year of a suburban homestead project, highlighting accomplishments and lessons learned. The key is to manage expectations and start small, prioritizing manageable projects to avoid feeling overwhelmed while gradually increasing self-sufficiency.

Key Quotes​

Here are four direct quotes that represent valuable insights from the transcript:

  1. "Don't let perfection stop you from making progress. A good enough option that you actually use beats the ideal that you never pulled the trigger on." (Relates to compromise and action over paralysis by analysis.)

  2. "If you want good neighbors, be a good neighbor. you'll always be glad that you did." (Highlights the importance of community and reciprocity in achieving self-sufficiency.)

  3. "My failures have taught me so much more than my victories." (Emphasizes the learning process and the value of mistakes in practical projects.)

  4. "Start by automating the tasks that you do on a daily basis, and you'll feel the difference fast." ( Highlights how to approach automation and ease the burden of daily homesteading tasks.)

Detailed Summary​

Here's a detailed summary of the YouTube video transcript, focusing on the key topics, arguments, and information discussed.

Overview:

  • The video celebrates the one-year anniversary of the suburban homestead project.
  • The project aims to demonstrate self-sufficiency is possible in a typical suburban environment without extensive land.
  • Focus is on utilizing 3,000 sq ft, demonstrating feasibility in a smaller-than-average backyard.
  • The video covers accomplishments, lessons learned, and future plans.

Accomplishments (Year 1):

  • Security:
    • Installed a monitored security system on the house and barn due to break-ins.
    • Added security bars and reinforced doors to the barn.
    • Adopted two guardian dogs and patched the fences to keep them contained.
  • Property Improvements:
    • Fixed drainage issues that were causing foundation cracking.
    • Moved the propane tank and re-trenched the line.
    • Topped eucalyptus trees due to high fire risk (although costly).
  • Infrastructure:
    • Built a cold food storage room in the house with climate control.
    • Installed an irrigation system in the front yard.
    • Fenced in the 3,000 sq ft garden area.
    • Built a chicken coop.
    • Planted four fruit trees.
    • Installed four raised garden beds made of wood, concrete blocks, and pre-fabricated materials.
    • Set up a three-bin compost system.
    • Added a 1,200-gallon rainwater harvesting tank with a first flush system.
    • Made the main house off-grid with a solar battery system (parts from Shop Solar Kits, installed by a contractor).
    • Add two Anker F3800 units with their smart panel and a solar input as a secondary backup for the well.
  • Wellhouse:
    • Dealt with termites and reinforced the structure.
  • Barn:
    • Replaced the garage door with a rollup door.
    • Added rain gutters.
    • Installed new shelves.
    • Installed a custom electrical panel with multiple inlets.
    • Replaced the roof to fix leaks.
    • Installed mini-split units for heating and cooling.
    • Installed 2400 watts of solar panels connected to two higholus generators and battery expansions, giving us 20 kwatt hours and 240 volt output.
    • Converted the upstairs into an office and home gym.
    • Converted the downstairs into a YouTube studio.

Top 10 Lessons Learned:

  1. It Takes Time and Money: Projects are significant investments. Costs accumulate, even with sponsorships. Starting small with manageable systems is recommended if on a budget.
  2. Prepare Before You Buy: Consider long-term accessibility, security, and practicality when purchasing property. Weigh remoteness vs. proximity to support infrastructure and emergency services.
  3. You May Not Get Everything You Want: Accept that compromises may be necessary. A "good enough" option that is actually used is better than a perfect, unrealized ideal.
  4. Know Your Neighbors: Build community. Be a good neighbor to foster mutual support and assistance.
  5. Expect Failure: Mistakes are inevitable and valuable learning opportunities. Don't be discouraged by setbacks.
  6. Be Flexible: Plans may need to be adjusted due to unforeseen circumstances. Adaptability is key.
  7. Focus on the Next Step: Avoid being overwhelmed by visualizing the entire project at once. Concentrate on achievable goals in the immediate future.
  8. Automate Where You Can: Incorporate automation to save time and effort on routine tasks like watering and feeding animals.
  9. Get the Right Tools: Good tools can significantly improve efficiency and speed up the work. Rent or borrow if necessary.
  10. Know Your Limits: Don't be afraid to hire help for tasks that exceed your skills, time, or physical capabilities.

Future Plans (Next 6-12 Months):

  • Energy:
    • Connect the main solar system to the grid for power export and flexibility.
    • Double the barn solar array to expand the higholus solar battery backup system.
    • Relocate the solar panels from the wellhouse to the patio roof on the main house.
  • Water:
    • Finish automating the irrigation system.
    • Add a 5,000-gallon stainless steel water tank for fire protection.
  • Garden:
    • Expand the garden with more beds, variety, and improved composting.
    • Implement companion planting.
  • Security:
    • Expand the security system to cover the entire property with cameras, motion lights, and sensors.
  • Livestock:
    • Set up bees on the property.
  • Storage:
    • Build a root cellar for long-term food storage without refrigeration.
  • Landscaping:
    • Plant a thick row of trees for privacy and security.
    • Continue improving the garden soil and extending the growing season.
    • Possibly add a small greenhouse.

Overall Message:

  • The project serves as a working model for others interested in suburban homesteading.
  • Encouragement to start small and learn from the community.