In “Building a compound on a shoestring budget,” Tim and Tina dig into what it actually takes in 2026 to create a shared family or friend group property without turning it into a financial, legal, or relational disaster. They unpack the real world basics, finding land, zoning and permitting, utilities and septic, access roads, insurance, and the hidden costs that crush most budgets.

Then they get practical about how people structure communal living, from ownership and governance to shared expenses, chores, privacy, boundaries, and what happens when someone wants out. Expect discussion of phased building plans, small starter dwellings, DIY versus licensed work, building codes, financing options, and the common pitfalls like handshake agreements, unclear decision making, and underestimating infrastructure.

This is a clear eyed, research driven look at how to do it legally, safely, and sustainably, even with limited cash and limited time.