Taylor and Tatum Barnes left New York City seeking a more affordable and permanent home and found it in Vermont. The couple bought a one-bedroom fixer-upper with 2.6 acres of land for $160,000. According to Taylor, the slower pace of life in the countryside has been refreshing compared to the city's bustle. Previously renting a studio in Brooklyn, the couple wanted a place where they could set down roots and start homesteading projects. After their remote work allowed them to explore different towns, they stumbled upon the Upper Valley area of Vermont and fell in love.
Initially moving to a studio apartment in Hartford near Dartmouth College, they sought a more permanent residence. When they found a one-bedroom, one-bathroom cottage in Pomfret, it was love at first sight, despite it having been used as an office for a local business and not lived in for over a decade. The charming 650-square-foot home, initially listed for $225,000, had its price steadily decreased, making it affordable for the couple. The property came with 2.6 acres of land, and Taylor appreciated the natural lighting and attractive wood cabinets. They closed the deal in March 2021 for $160,000 and took three to four months to complete the purchase and move in.
Adjusting to their new home wasn't without challenges, but it came with significant relief. The pandemic allowed them to work remotely, and this flexibility helped them explore and eventually settle in Vermont. Tatum, who works in parks and recreation, even participated in some of the renovation work. Realizing the urgency of some repairs, like fixing the broken sliding door, the couple hired a carpenter for more extensive projects. They also invested in solar panels, underscoring their long-term commitment to sustainability. Most items in their home are either gifted, thrifted, or free, reflecting their commitment to sustainability.
Their home is located on the main road of a small town with around 1,000 people, offering privacy without complete seclusion. They even manage a small campsite on their land, open year-round, with rates starting from $24 a night. Life in Vermont is notably different from New York City. They now drive everywhere, a stark contrast to their previous reliance on public transport. The community interaction is more personal, with everyone waving at each other—a significant change from the impersonal lifestyle in New York. Making friends was initially difficult due to the pandemic, but becoming parents helped them bond with other families.
Contrary to perceptions, moving to the countryside has not made them wealthy. While their mortgage is half of what they paid in Brooklyn, being homeowners involves continuous spending on repairs and projects, balancing the initial savings. Financially, things even out, but the quality of life has markedly improved. They advise others considering a similar move to let their guard down and be open to the different kind of threats that come with country living—not from people but from wildlife like raccoons and bears. Adapting to the new lifestyle will take time, but reaching out for help is essential in a rural setting. Their story is a testament to the growing trend of people moving out of expensive cities for a more sustainable and affordable lifestyle, even though it comes with its own set of challenges and adjustments.
