Las Vegas couple sells home to live off-grid in Arizona

LAS VEGAS (KLAS) — A Las Vegas couple sells their home and moves to build an off-grid lifestyle outside of the valley.

Down a five-mile-long road off Highway 93, in a remote part of Whitehills Arizona, one will find Richard Macmahon and his wife, Karimah. The couple is in the middle of building their off-grid existence.

Living off-grid is a way of life involving being self-sufficient with food, water, shelter and energy.

They purchased the land at a very low price in 2020, initially intending to develop and sell it. However, over time, the prospect of living there and having land and financial stability to pass on to their children became appealing. Richard explained they don’t have a mortgage or any utility bills—just a yearly property tax of $40.

“I’ve paid off my truck, everything you see here, we’ve paid cash,” Richard said.

They were determined to avoid taking out a loan. For the past six months, they’ve been living in a trailer while they work on finishing their 900-square-foot home with an attached garage.

They document their journey on their “Off-Grid Road Runner Ranch” YouTube channel. Though it hasn’t been without its challenges Richard points out.

“If you forget something in the middle of building, it’s not like you can just go to Home Depot, and get a part to glue something together,” Richard said.

There’s always something of the elements, to contend with whether it’s the wind or the wildlife.

“We did the chicken wire because I was worried about rabbits. But now I’m dealing with grounds squirrels,” Richard said.

They’ve completed the roof and stucco and are now beginning work on the electrical and plumbing for the interior of the home. The couple has not compromised on quality in their off-grid living. Their blueprints showcase plans for a bathroom featuring high-end finishes and a chef’s kitchen.

Married for five years, they share both emotional and now physical closeness. While Karimah was uncertain at first, she now says she loves the lifestyle.

“I thought I’d be losing a lot of stuff if I move out here. Today I don’t miss the city at all,” Karimah said.

Both enjoy the solitude and serenity of living off-grid, in a tiny home.

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