The Truth About Financing Land Through Brokers: What You Need to Know Before Going Off-Grid
Many people dream of buying a piece of land and starting their off-grid lifestyle. One common way to make that dream happen is through **owner financing with land brokers**. It sounds easy — a down payment, monthly payments, and eventually the land is yours. But before you sign, it’s important to understand the **pros, cons, and hidden risks** that come with this type of financing.
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## The Pros of Owner Financing
* **No banks required** – For many, traditional financing is out of reach. Owner financing gives you a way in without needing bank approval.
* **Flexible terms** – Some brokers are willing to work with your situation on down payments or monthly amounts.
* **Faster access** – Instead of months of paperwork, you can often start the purchase process quickly.
* **Opportunity for land ownership** – If you’re committed and prepared, this can be a solid path to owning your own property.
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## The Cons of Owner Financing
* **You don’t build equity right away** – Until the land is fully paid off, you don’t truly own it. Miss a payment, and you could lose everything.
* **No refunds** – If you put down a deposit and make monthly payments, but later realize off-grid living isn’t for you, that money is gone. Brokers are not required to return it.
* **High risk of failure** – Many brokers know people back out. In fact, they often **make more money if you fail** because they resell the same land over and over to new buyers.
* **Unclear land quality** – Some properties sold through brokers may not meet your needs for water, access, or zoning. If you find this out too late, you’re stuck.
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## Why You Should “Try Before You Buy”
Before committing to owner financing, **test out off-grid living first**. Spend time camping, renting a spot at a campground, or even staying on BLM land in the area you’re interested in. If you’re lucky enough to have friends nearby, spend time with them and see what daily life is really like.
Living off-grid can be rewarding, but it’s also challenging. From **extreme weather to isolation, limited utilities, and financial stress**, you need to know if you can handle it before locking yourself into years of payments.
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## 5 Questions to Ask Before Financing Land
1. **Can I realistically live off-grid in this area year-round?**
– Test it out before committing. Spend weeks or months there.
2. **What are the land’s resources and restrictions?**
– Check zoning laws, water rights, road access, and whether utilities can ever be added.
3. **What happens if I can’t make payments?**
– Ask the broker directly. Be prepared for the possibility of losing all your investment.
4. **Am I financially stable enough for long-term payments?**
– Budget carefully. Off-grid living has hidden costs beyond land payments.
5. **Who benefits most from this deal — me or the broker?**
– Remember, brokers often profit more when buyers fail. Be sure you’re not walking into a trap.
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## What You Should Do Before Investing
* **Research the land thoroughly** – Visit in person, walk the property, and talk to neighbors.
* **Live off-grid temporarily** – Try camping, staying with friends, or living at a campground in the area.
* **Budget for the unexpected** – Factor in costs for solar, water, septic, fencing, and repairs.
* **Read the contract carefully** – Look for terms about defaults, repossession, or hidden fees.
* **Have an exit plan** – Know what you’ll do if off-grid life turns out not to be for you.
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## Final Thoughts
Owner financing **isn’t horrible** — it can be a great option for those ready to commit. But it’s not for everyone, and it’s important to know that **land brokers don’t care if you succeed or fail**. In fact, failure often makes them more money.
If you’re considering this path, take your time. Research, ask questions, and most importantly, **live the lifestyle before making a commitment**. That way, your hard-earned money becomes an investment — not a loss.
And if you want to learn more about the realities of off-grid living before jumping in, **join us live on TikTok at Colquhoun Entertainment**. We share our daily experiences, lessons learned, and real conversations about what works (and what doesn’t) when it comes to desert homesteading, off-grid challenges, and sustainable living.
Come hang out with us in the mornings, ask questions, and get the unfiltered truth before you invest.
👉 http://www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com
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#offgrid
#homesteading
#sustainableliving
#LifeUnfiltered
#desert
Tag: Sustainable living
Thinking of Going Off-Grid? Watch Our Live Morning Streams & Learn the Truth About Homestead Life!
Thinking of Living Off-Grid? Join Our Daily Livestreams
Have you ever dreamed of living **off-grid**? Wondering what it really takes to step away from the hustle of modern life and create a lifestyle built around **self-reliance, sustainability, and freedom**?
Every morning on **Colquhoun Entertainment**, we go live to share our real experiences of **off-grid living in New Mexico**. We cover the ups and downs, what has worked for us, and what hasn’t—because no journey is perfect, and sometimes the hardest lessons are the most valuable.
Topics we dive into include:
* **Buying and finding land** that truly fits your needs.
* **Dealing with land brokers** and what to watch out for.
* Understanding the realities of climate, resources, and costs.
* The difference between “dreaming” of off-grid life and actually living it.
* Why we always recommend **trying it out before you invest everything**.
Whether you’re just curious or already planning your move, these livestreams give you a raw, honest look at what it’s like to live off-grid—directly from people who are doing it every day.
👉 Tune in, ask questions, and be part of the conversation. Living off-grid isn’t for everyone, but if it calls to you, we’ll help you prepare for the adventure of a lifetime.
http://www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com
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#OffGridLiving
#HomesteadLife
#SustainableLiving
#DesertLife
#ColquhounEntertainment
BEWARE of ‘Free’ Off-Grid Living Offers 😳 What They’re NOT Telling You!
Free or Low-Cost Stays Are on the Rise—But Are They Safe or Sustainable?**
In recent months, there’s been a noticeable rise in communities and landowners offering **free or low-cost places to live**—from RV spots and tent camping, to off-grid setups, tiny home villages, and communal land projects. This trend is gaining momentum, especially as the national conversation around homelessness has shifted dramatically. With recent legislation signed into law making aspects of **homelessness illegal** in certain jurisdictions (such as Trump’s support of bills that criminalize encampments in public spaces), more people are seeking alternatives before they’re pushed into crisis.
But with this wave of new options, comes a critical reminder: **not all opportunities are created with your best interest in mind.**
### Free Isn’t Always Free
Some of these places offer stays in tents, vehicles, or campers for little to no cost. Others promise a safe, off-grid lifestyle in exchange for a bit of labor or financial contribution. But here’s the truth: **just because it’s free or cheap doesn’t mean it’s the right fit—or even safe.** In some cases, people arrive with high hopes only to find poor living conditions, unclear rules, or outright scams.
### Research Is Your Best Friend
Before committing to any place offering low-cost or free accommodations, **do your homework**:
* **Google them.** Look up the name of the place and add “reviews” or “scam” to see what comes up.
* **Check social media.** Most reputable places have a public presence. See how active and transparent they are.
* **Visit if possible.** If they offer short stays on platforms like **Airbnb, Hipcamp, or The Dyrt**, consider trying a night or weekend before committing long-term.
* **Ask questions.** Email or call. You should never have to pay or “subscribe” just to get basic information.
* **Make a list.** Ask about water access, power, rules, communication, transportation, visitors, pets, and exit plans.
### Know What You’re Signing Up For
It’s important to know if you’ll be expected to work in exchange for your stay, and what that means. Some people are okay with trading a few hours of work for a space to park their RV—others may feel uncomfortable if the workload isn’t clearly defined or becomes excessive.
For example, **at our own location**, we offer **limited long-term stays through a membership program**. Members must be **fully self-contained**, meaning they need to bring their own water, have their own vehicle, and manage their own waste systems. We don’t offer work exchange, but we’re upfront about the expectations—because transparency matters.
### Final Thoughts
These types of communities can be beautiful, healing places—but **you have to make sure they align with your needs and values**. What might feel like freedom at first glance can become frustrating if the structure, expectations, or environment don’t suit your lifestyle.
**Free or cheap isn’t always better.** Ask questions, get details, and make sure the space is one where you can truly thrive—not just survive.
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#OffGridLiving, #VanlifeCommunity, #AlternativeLiving, #FreeCampingTips, #NomadAdvice
Off-Grid Desert Living for–Could THIS Be the Best Long-Term Camp Spot in New Mexico?
🌵 Ka-Hoon Campground Membership Program 🌵**
📍Deep in the New Mexico Desert | 🏕️ Respect. Freedom. Community.
At the end of last year, we quietly launched our **Ka-Hoon Campground Membership Program**—a long-term stay option requested by some of our amazing campers. Since then, we’ve welcomed a few dedicated members who stayed for nearly six months before heading off to chase their dreams in California.
This program was never about packing people in—it’s about building an intentional, respectful desert community. Let’s be honest: as much as we’d love to offer free stays, we do have expenses. And while this isn’t a get-rich venture for us, it is our home *and* our livelihood. Like anyone else, we just want to live simply and comfortably while protecting the land.
**What’s included in the membership?**
✅ Long-term stay opportunities
✅ Come and go as you please
✅ Set up your space your way
✅ No work exchange required
✅ Just one rule: **Respect**—for the land, yourself, and others
✅ No illegal substances, no chaos—just desert calm
We keep our numbers small on purpose, hoping to attract folks who share our values. If you’re someone looking for a safe, peaceful place to be yourself, you just might find your spot here on the mesa.
**Interested in joining or learning more? Message us today.**
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#KaHoonCampground #OffGridCommunity #LongTermCamping #NewMexicoDesert #IntentionalLiving
We Finally Solved the Off-Grid Shower Problem… But It Wasn’t Easy!
New Camper Shower Coming Soon at Ka-Hoon Campground**
We’re getting closer to having a working shower available for campers here at Ka-Hoon Campground! Like most off-grid projects, it’s taken some trial and error to figure out what works best.
One of our biggest challenges has been the **water pump**. We initially tried using a **small well pump** designed to run an entire household, but it turned out to be *too powerful* for our setup. It required priming every time, didn’t work well with flexible hoses, and created pressure issues. While we still plan to use it in future builds, it’s not the right fit for a simple shower system.
After some research, we chose a **diaphragm pump**, which is much more efficient and easier to operate. It’ll allow us to provide on-demand water for showers without the hassle of setting up and tearing down each time. Campers can just flip a switch and enjoy a hot rinse (once we finish setting up the privacy area — that’s coming soon!).
### Why There Will Be a Shower Fee
The shower won’t be included in the nightly camping fee because not everyone will need it. Instead, we’ll charge **\$10 for a 15-minute shower**, which helps cover:
* **Water hauling costs** – including fuel for the truck **and the cost of the water itself**
* **Propane** for heating water
* **System upkeep** and maintenance
Currently, it costs us about **\$30 to haul 150 gallons** of water, and to avoid excessive wear on the trailer and truck, we limit loads to that amount.
Like everything else out here, we’re building it slowly and sustainably. We appreciate everyone’s patience and support as we keep improving the off-grid experience at Ka-Hoon!
Www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com
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#offgridliving, #desertlife, #kahooncampground, #offgridshower, #diaphragmpump, #waterhaul, #tinyhome, #offgridcamping, #newmexicodesert, #camplife, #propaneheat, #offgridcommunity, #diyshower, #offgridwater, #rvlife
Desert Shower Upgrade Hits a Snag — But We’re Not Giving Up! 💪🌵
Desert Life Update: Shower Progress, Greywater Plans & Desert Heat Challenges**
The desert heat has been relentless lately, and it’s definitely slowed down our momentum — but progress is still happening here at Plateau Hame de Colquhoun!
We recently installed the **on-demand water heater** in the outdoor shower. It was a quicker project than expected, thanks to Brent gaining back his strength. What would’ve taken Anne and me a full day was done in just about an hour with Brent handling the drilling and planning.
That said, we hit a small snag — we’re still missing the proper parts to connect the water hoses to the IBC tote. We’ve got plenty of fittings, but of course, the threads don’t match. So now we’re waiting on our next trip into town to grab the right ones.
### Next Step: Fixing the Shower Drain
Our next focus is the shower **drain system**. What we had originally planned — and even have all the parts for — isn’t working quite the way we hoped. The drain cap currently sticks up about half an inch above the floor. Not only will that cause drainage issues, but it’s also a perfect toe-stubber in the making.
So, the new plan is to use a **larger hole saw** to widen the existing drain hole. We’ll take apart the pre-assembled drain, and (fingers crossed) get it installed flush with the floor. Building something from scratch — especially when it’s not based on traditional blueprints — comes with a fair amount of trial and error. But we’re figuring it out as we go, and we *will* prevail.
### Looking Ahead: Greywater & Future Plans
Once the water is flowing and the on-demand heater is fully functional, we’ll move on to the **greywater system**. The plan is for the shower water to drain into a buried IBC tote, where we’ll **reuse it for plants** around the camp.
Eventually, I’d love to create a more advanced setup — routing the greywater through a **worm bed**, into a **hydro garden**, and finally into a **recycled water container** for later use. But we’re not quite ready for that yet. A system like that needs sun protection to keep the worms alive, and we’ve got other priorities first.
### What’s Next on the Build List:
* Construct **walls around the shower** to create a private dressing area
* Use **pallets and garden posts** to build the dressing area structure
* Create space nearby for a **washing machine hookup**
* Finish building out our **solar system** — we *hopefully* have everything we need for it, we just need a stretch of good weather, good health, and available time to get it done
Out here, building off-grid isn’t always easy — but it’s rewarding. The process may be slower than we’d like (especially under this sun), but each step gets us closer to a self-sustaining desert homestead.
Thanks for following along — more updates coming soon!
http://www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com
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#offgridliving, #desertlife, #sustainableliving, #diyprojects, #homesteadlife, #waterrecycling, #ecofriendlybuild, #solarsetup, #showerrenovation, #greywatersystem, #campgroundlife, #tinyhomeprogress, #resilientliving, #deserthomestead, #plateauhamedecolquhoun
Rainy Days, Movie Nights & Shower Builds – What’s New at Ka-Hoon Campground This Week!
Spring Storms, Movie Night & Shower Build Progress at Ka-Hoon Plateau Hame De Colquhoun
It’s been a cloudy, chilly, and rainy week out here in the desert, but that doesn’t stop us from planning some fun! **This Saturday**, weather permitting, we’re hosting another cozy **Movie Night** under the stars—bring a blanket and a chair! Then on **Sunday, May 25th**, we’re holding an **Open Mic Night**. Whether you sing, read poetry, or just want to hang out, we welcome everyone to take the mic and share.
**Shower House Update**
Building the new shower has proven to be more of a challenge than expected. If Brent were fully capable, he’d probably have it knocked out in a day. But this time, Anne and I are doing the building ourselves with Brent’s guidance. While we’ve helped with builds before, this is our first time truly taking the lead. Let’s just say—we’ve learned we’re much better assistants than lead builders!
We’ve been working around weather delays, high winds, and rainy weekends—not to mention juggling schedules. Progress is slower than we hoped, but it’s still moving forward and will be worth it when it’s done!
**Don’t Miss Our Membership Program!**
If you haven’t already, make sure to check out our **Membership Program**. Members enjoy:
* Free and discounted camping
* Discounts at our general store
* Free entry to special events like Movie Nights, Talent Shows, and more
* Priority access to campsites
* Member-only activities and gatherings
Our community is about freedom, creativity, and respect. Whether you’re a regular visitor or just passing through, our membership helps support continued improvements like the new shower, as well as all the events we love to host.
**Stay connected, stay cozy, and stay kind.**
Visit http://www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com learn more or sign up!
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#OffGridLiving, #CampgroundLife, #DesertCamping, #MovieNightUnderTheStars, #OpenMicNight, #CreativeCommunity, #CampgroundEvents, #RainyDayProjects, #BuildingOffGrid, #TinyHomeLife, #DIYShowerBuild, #SupportLocalCampgrounds, #SustainableLiving, #CampgroundMembership, #CommunityVibes
Surviving the Harsh Desert: Off-Grid Life, Wind Battles & Starry Nights in New Mexico!
**Embracing the Off-Grid Life in the New Mexico Desert**
Living off-grid in the New Mexico desert is a journey of resilience, adaptation, and appreciation for nature’s raw beauty. The challenges are real—relentless winds, shifting sands, and scorching sun test even the most determined. Yet, the rewards far outweigh the struggles.
The vast, open landscape offers a sense of freedom few places can match. Towering mountains provide a breathtaking backdrop, while the night sky, untouched by city lights, becomes a canvas of endless stars. Every evening, the desert transforms, revealing a peaceful, almost mystical energy that makes all the hardships worth enduring.
Each season brings its own battles—spring winds carry dust that seeps into everything, summer heat pushes limits, and winter nights can be bitterly cold. Yet, overcoming these obstacles fosters strength and self-reliance. It’s a lifestyle that demands perseverance but rewards with unmatched tranquility, deeper connections to nature, and a life free from the constraints of modern convenience.
For those seeking a simpler, more intentional way of living, the desert calls. It may not be easy, but the beauty, solitude, and self-sufficiency make it an experience like no other.
http://www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com
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#OffGridLiving, #DesertLife, #SustainableLiving, #SelfSufficiency, #NewMexico, #StarryNights, #WindyDesert, #MountainViews, #OffGridAdventure, #SimpleLife, #Homesteading, #NatureLover, #LivingWild, #EcoLiving, #Freedom
Life at Ka-Hoon: Off-Grid Living, Music, and Community Updates
**Life at Ka-Hoon: Off-Grid Living, Music, and Community Updates**
**Daily Life and Projects**
We try to post daily videos, but there’s only so much we can show without becoming repetitive. As the weather warms up, we’re able to tackle more outdoor projects—but deciding which one to start with is always a challenge.
One big project we keep putting off is the **new solar setup**. The delays come down to a few things:
– We need several consecutive good weather days to build it.
– We’re unsure if we have all the necessary materials.
– We still haven’t settled on the perfect location.
Right now, our existing solar setup works fine, but expanding it would provide **more power for the studio**—something we definitely want. It’s not an urgent need, but it’s a project we’re excited to complete when the time is right.
**Advocatus Diaboli & Shamshini: Music & Rehearsals**
On the music side, **Advocatus Diaboli and Shamshini** continue live rehearsals, hanging out, and singing on **TikTok and Clapper**. Sound quality for live streams has been a challenge, but after lots of testing, we think we’ve finally found the right setup!
If you haven’t yet, follow us on **TikTok and Clapper** to catch our live sessions, interact, and be part of the experience!
**Camping & Membership at Ka-Hoon**
Camping at **Ka-Hoon Campground and Event Center** is more than just an overnight stay—it’s about **community, freedom, and off-grid living**. Our **Membership Program** has been growing, and it’s proving to be a **valuable addition** to what we offer.
**Why Is Membership Important?**
Our **Membership Program** was created in response to camper requests for **longer-term stays** and has grown into a **thriving off-grid community**. It provides:
✅ **Security & Stability** – Members have a **safe place** to camp, homestead, or use as a basecamp for their travels.
✅ **Learning & Teaching** – Members can **attend or host classes** on topics like **homesteading, off-grid living, and art**.
✅ **Community & Support** – A **like-minded community** that helps each other with projects, advice, and skills.
✅ **Financial & Business Opportunities** – Members can **sell their goods in our general store or set up a vendor booth** at events.
✅ **Exclusive Discounts** – Members receive **discounts on all Ka-Hoon hosted events** and other perks.
✅ **Voting Rights** – Members **help shape the community** by voting on rules, events, and regulations.
**Camping at Ka-Hoon**
If you’re looking for a **safe, private place to camp**, Ka-Hoon offers a **unique off-grid experience**. Whether you want to:
– Experience **off-grid living and homesteading** before committing to land ownership
– Find a **basecamp for travel and adventure**
– Stay long-term in a **community-oriented environment**
We have **daily, weekly, and monthly camping options**, with **membership benefits** available for those who want a deeper connection to the community.
### **Important Notice for Visitors & Campers**
Please **contact us before visiting** to help us maintain a **safe and private** environment for everyone. While members and campers are free to **come and go as they please**, we ask that you inform us about any guests for security reasons.
If you’re interested in **camping, homesteading, or just experiencing off-grid life**, reach out to learn more about what we offer at Ka-Hoon!
Plateau hame de Colquhoun aka Ka-Hoon Campground and Event Center
http://www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com
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#OffGridLiving, #CampingLife, #Homesteading, #DesertCamping, #CommunityLiving, #SustainableLiving, #RVLife, #SelfSufficiency, #EcoFriendly, #VanLife, #SolarPower, #MusicCommunity, #AlternativeLiving, #NatureLovers, #KaHoonCampground
Why We Don’t Ask for Donations & How You Can Support Ka-Hoon Campground in Other Ways!
Supporting Ka-Hoon Campground: Ways to Help
Lately, we’ve received a few emails asking if we would set up a CashApp, Venmo, or even an Amazon Wishlist for donations. While we truly appreciate the thought, we’ve always been independent and prefer to earn our way. However, we understand that some of you genuinely want to support us, so we’ve been brainstorming ways to make that possible while staying true to our values.
We know times are tough for many, and uncertainty is everywhere. If you’d like to support us but can’t camp, attend an event, or visit in person, we suggest sponsoring a membership. This not only helps us but also provides an opportunity for someone else—a family or individual—to have a safe place to set up their homestead or simply enjoy a space where they can be themselves.
As for the Amazon Wishlist, we’re not sure what we’d include. Would campers and members benefit from extra tents, cooking supplies, or maybe some essentials for the dogs? Our storage space is limited, so we’d love input on what might actually be useful.
We’re not wealthy—funds are always tight—but we’ve built everything we have through hard work and determination. We’ve occasionally received small donations from campers, which we see as tips for the experience we provide, and we’re completely okay with that. However, we don’t feel comfortable simply accepting money or gifts without giving something in return.
If you truly want to help but can’t visit, the best ways to support us are:
✔️ Sponsor a membership to help others access our space.
✔️ Share our website and videos to help more people find us.
If you think we should create an Amazon Wishlist, let us know what items would be most useful! One camper donated some ready-to-eat meals (REMs), which we’ve shared with campers and community members—and, admittedly, enjoyed ourselves!
Your support, in any form, means the world to us. Thank you for being part of our journey!
🌵 **Visit our website:** http://www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com
**Ka-Hoon Membership Program**
https://plateauhamedecolquhoun.com/membership/
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#KaHoonCampground #OffGridLiving #SupportSmallBusiness #CommunityMatters #SustainableLiving #CampingLife #LiveYourDream #SelfSufficiency #DesertVibes #HelpWithoutMoney #MembershipMatters #OutdoorAdventure #MinimalistLife #IndependentLiving #ShareTheJourney
Ka-Hoon Campground and Event Center 