Describe the attributes of the Realistic

I'm seriously thinking of moving to TN, close to Huntsville, AL (where I'd work). This gives me the ability to search for a home and property suitable for the best bang for the buck wrt prepping. Please describe the attributes of what an Ideal but Realistic Bug In Home would look like (no crocodile filled moats).

 

Sharks with freakin' lasers!

 

Water proof lasers, of course, duh.

 

That area of Tn/Al is pretty. A fair amount of property suitable for what you are after. Still has a small town feel, not all that far from H-ville. I've never lived there, but have traveled to and around that area. As far as the ideal retreat goes, its kinda like ghrit says.

 

I have ideas and didn't place them in my original post. I'm looking for fresh perspective, unique ideas, things I may never of considered. Your post leads me to believe you might have exactly what I'm looking for (unless sharks with lasers and crocks in a moat was part of your planning ). For example, I use to imagine a home on top of a hill might be ideal with a view of what is coming in all directions. I now believe that a home dug into the Southern side of a hill surrounded by trees and heavy brush might be better especially when not visible from any road (concealment).
Your ideas might change my thinking. If I don't think an idea will work for me, I certainly won't flame you for it. I read How to Win Friends and Influence People and I took it to heart.

 

I would look for property with running water. A stream, artesian spring, maybe river access. Running water can supply both water and power in several ways. But I would want enough high ground to avoid flooding issues.
I would avoid cob or straw bale construction, regardless of the R-factor or low cost. (They both burn quite merrily, and quickly)
I would suggest concrete, poured and stood walls, and a sheet steel roof will last quite a long time, is fire proof. And would establish ground plane for a communications ham radio system.
if you have the bucks, radiant floor heat, and a full solar system would be quite useful. Do not, however, overlook wind for either power or water pumping, both are time tested. Once we know more of what you need, we can be of more help.

 

@kellory We have poured concrete basements in Iowa and I really like that. Cheap and fast to construct. Another reason for building on a hill side is I could run a pipe directly South from my sump and avoid a pump all together (no electrical requirements). I like the metal roof idea for both reasons given. Very good stuff, thanks.

 

Pay close attention to the neighbors and the neighborhood. You don't want to be in the middle of a pot growing area nor in have some real lowlifes right next door. I've spent time in the area and beautiful sights, some wonderful people and ample white trash in the wrong holler.

AT

 

That is also how sound proof walls are constructed. With no solids from wall surface to wall surface. It would be both warm and very quiet.

 

Concrete monolithic dome home.

 

I'd rather have a pot grow as opposed to a methlab.

 

Makings of a salad for husbands whose wife's entree requires guests with the munchies.