Many people dream of one day owning a home where they can design every detail themselves. Ideally, it would be spacious, and having a garden would be the cherry on top—a dream come true.
But owning a home isn’t cheap, and for many, it’s a luxury beyond reach.
One young farmer, Dane, who recently turned 23, chose a different path than most of his peers. Rather than chasing a typical career, his heart was set on building a home of his own—and he meant that literally.
Dane knew that with his modest income, a mortgage would take decades to pay off. He didn’t want to live with debt, nor did he want to spend his whole life saving for a house. So, he took a bold step: he decided to build the house himself.
Though he had no prior experience in construction, Dane had one advantage—his father, a skilled carpenter. His dad stepped in to help, guiding him through the process. Friends also pitched in, saving Dane a great deal of time and labor.
Working on a tight budget, Dane sourced heavily discounted materials. He bought windows for just $30 and even received a stove for free. The entire build took about a year, resulting in a small yet cozy home with all the basics.
Dane’s house is simple but fully livable. A wood stove heats the space, and he uses a gas burner for cooking. He doesn’t have electricity and instead lights his home with a kerosene lamp. His only connection to the outside world is a mobile phone with internet access.
A nearby neighbor generously offered Dane a small plot of land, where he now grows fruits and vegetables. He also hopes to raise chickens soon.
“I’ve always loved quiet,” Dane says. “City life just isn’t for me. At first, my parents were skeptical, but after visiting a few times, they came around. All that matters to them is that I’m happy.”
Though his lifestyle is modest, Dane lacks nothing essential. He feels content and fulfilled.
“Some of my friends think I’m nuts for living like this,” he laughs. “They can’t imagine life without electricity or TV. But I never get bored—there’s always something to do. I don’t understand people who need screens to stay entertained.”
Dane has since formed strong friendships with other local farmers and enjoys a thriving social life.
He’s not in a relationship at the moment, and he’s realistic about the fact that not everyone would be comfortable living as he does. If the need ever arises, he’s open to building a larger house. But buying a ready-made one is out of the question—prices are simply too high. A small cottage would cost upwards of $180,000, which he finds unreasonable.
His little house, tucked away from the hustle of modern life, may be unconventional—but Dane is perfectly content. And that, he believes, is what truly matters—not what others think.
