Whether you are looking to move permanently or just get a seasonal home to rescue you during cold northern winters, there is so much to love about desert homes.
Unique ecosystem, beautiful sunsets, and a sense of cultural pride are just a few of the many different perks that you can enjoy by choosing to acquire real estate in American deserts. But what exactly are the things that you need to consider?
Here are 4 things to look for when buying a desert home according to Realty Times:
The right materials
Desert homes are in a way built differently than others. For one thing, there are only specific types of materials that would best fit the intense sun and dry desert air. Wood is a common material used in building houses; however, it is not a good option for the desert. Any type of wood is prone to distort in the harsh desert weather.
Go for stone, adobe, or ICF concrete, which are materials effective to maintain a cool indoor temperature and at the same time withstand the desert's extreme environment. Also, keep an eye on houses that already have treated and tinted windows that help control intense rays that in turn lessen cooling costs.
Temperature control
There is nowhere more important to keep a regulated indoor temperature than in a desert environment where things can warm up rather quickly. In order to combat heat, most households have their AC units running all throughout the day which in turn hurts the electricity bill. The key is a properly and well designed desert home - which means a high ceiling.
High ceilings as well as ceiling fans can help keep the heat at bay by driving the heat out. Window fans should be positioned facing outward during afternoons to prevent hot air from coming in and maintain a comfortable breezy space. Drapes and blinds can also contribute in keeping the space cool especially during hot summer days.
At night, desert homes can be quite cold which means that home owners can stick to their warm blankets and rugs.
Embracing the desert yard
A major adjustment for homeowners is their perspective on what a yard is supposed to look like. Desert landscaping is a major thing nowadays where sage and hop bush are the common staple since they don't need to be watered every now and then. Instead of a grass yard, one made of decorative gravel and rocks are perfect to use. An outdoor patio for grilling and to entertain friends is also a great idea. But if you want to go all-out, a pool is the ultimate luxury.
Working the resources
What's good about Southwest homes is that they are great for solar paneling. This is one way to deal with a hefty monthly electricity bill; some homeowners can even make it is a long term investment since some areas are willing to pay for extra power that they pump back to the grid.
