Otways Semi Off-Grid Retrofit 2025

Otways Semi Off-Grid Retrofit

I have had a long term personal goal since the early 90’s to become self sufficient and live in a home that produces energy, food and space to keep developing into the future. Of course I would have loved to afford a new build with, all the latest sustainability tech etc but after long term deliberation I decided to retrofit an existing home which saves time, money and most importantly ,the environment. The major work I applied to the retrofit was minor demo ( wall removed to create open living/kitchen), 8 new stumps, installed new roof, new flooring, new insulation, new fireplace, solar system and hot water pump 6.5kw , paint throughout, new composite decks to rear and front and veggie garden. I purchased the home for $530k for 850m2 block with existing 3 bedroom, 1 bath, 2 toilet, weatherboard house. I spent $65k on upgrades which is a total of $600k so far. I am seeking to create a small footprint on my small but comfortable home with future plans to develop another Tiny Home to the rear of the block. Thus creating opportunities for intergenerational and/or shared/communal living.