EcoVillage Frequently Asked Questions [FAQs]
EcoVillage Frequently Asked Questions [FAQs]
How did EcoVillage get started?
A group of friends sharing a vision of a positive alternative for residential development pooled their resources to create a limited liability corporation to finance the development of EcoVillage. They began with an exhaustive search for a suitable piece of land on which to build, and a number of investors toured similarly chartered communities here in the US and in Europe in order to assess best practices in design and governance. Once the land was identified and feasibility studies concluded, the LLC constellated a blue ribbon panel of experts in sustainable architecture and site planning to create the master site plan and multiple house designs that reflected the commitment to environmentally sensitive building. Nothing was left to chance. A group of investors and future residents developed the community's declaration, covenants, and bylaws, as well as architectural and environmental guidelines. These governing documents ensure that people buying into EcoVillage are assured of the ongoing commitment to preserving the charter of the community and the integrity of the land - an essential element to protecting the investment of every EcoVillage homeowner. The majority of the original investors now live in the community.
How much does it cost to live in EcoVillage?
Lot prices average $123,000, which includes your lot, enjoyment of the shared acreage, and use of the Common House, EcoVillage's own community center. The construction cost of one's house depends on the size, amenities, and finishes that are selected. However, home prices [including the lot] are averaging in the low $400,000s. Residential property taxes in Loudoun County, VA, are $1.05 per $100 of assessed value. This rate is only applied to the private lots. The remaining shared acreage is taxed at the much lower land use rate. The EcoVillage Community Association pays the taxes on the shared acreage using the proceeds of the yearly community assessment of $1,200 per household.
Do I have to be an environmentalist to live in EcoVillage?
Joining EcoVillage is like contributing to the creation and maintenance of a land preserve. EcoVillage was founded on a dual commitment to live responsibly with regard to the natural environment and with respect to one's neighbors. By moving to EcoVillage, you are agreeing to contribute to the preservation and conservation of our shared land, which is protected by clear declarations, covenants, easements, restrictions and bylaws to which all residents must adhere. So, while not all EcoVillage residents self-identify as environmentalists per se, by building our homes here, we are explicitly agreeing to uphold the spirit and letter of those protections.
How do I get involved in community life?
Join a committee - or several! EcoVillage has a range of committees that do important work to support the ongoing needs of the residents and the land. Committees include:
What if I can't or don't want to do community service?
Most EcoVillage residents value community service as a way to socialize and connect with their neighbors. However, if time constraints or other issues preclude all or part of your community service, you may find someone to contribute those hours on your behalf or pay a stipend of $12.50 per week for adults and $12.50 every other week for young adults aged 10 to 17. In the event of a permanent disability, a system is in place to release individuals from this commitment.
How many houses will be built in EcoVillage?
Upon completion, EcoVillage will consist of 50 homes in two clusters of 25 each. While the community consists of 180 acres, this residential development will use only 15% of the available acreage. The remaining land is set aside for preservation and conservancy.
What is cohousing?
Cohousing is a form of residential development that is said to have originated in Denmark in the 1970s. It sprang from the Danes' need to make the most of their limited land resources. The clustered and/or attached houses reduced land use while providing ample outdoor recreation area. The Common House - or community center - provided additional space for shared activities like community meals or overflow space for storage or guests. Best of all, the proximity and self-management of the community contributed to a greater sense of connectedness and familiarity among neighbors. Cohousing remains a popular form of residential development throughout Denmark and has been gaining broader popularity in countries struggling to find alternatives to suburban sprawl and among individuals pursuing a lifestyle of voluntary simplicity.
What makes EcoVillage a cohousing community?
While it's true that the majority of cohousing communities in the US and abroad provide multi-family or attached housing, a growing number, like EcoVillage, offer single-family homes on privately owned lots. In EcoVillage, this reality was driven by Loudoun County's zoning requirements more than anything else. However, single-family homes are also more desirable in most American real estate markets, and EcoVillage's clustering provides for both privacy and connectedness - the best of both worlds.
Furthermore, EcoVillage residents will have the cohousing benefit of a Common House, which can be used for community meals, fitness activities, home schooling, meetings, out-of-town guests, and a myriad of varied functions. And, like other cohousing communities, EcoVillage is managed by the residents through their participation in the EcoVillage Community Association.
What makes EcoVillage an ECOvillage?
In addition to creating a healthy social environment, EcoVillage contributes to the preservation of a healthy natural environment. Our 180 acres are organically managed and the entire site is sheltered by strict covenants, declarations, and bylaws that serve to protect the natural beauty of the ecosystem - and our personal investments! Furthermore, all EcoVillage homes must meet rigorous energy performance standards that help reduce consumption and lower energy bills. The combination of careful development practices, land stewardship and reforestation, heightened energy performance, and reduced energy consumption makes EcoVillage a model for residential communities of the future.
How do I learn more about EcoVillage?
Join us for a tour! You will meet current and future residents, explore the natural beauty of the land, and tour the homes of the families already living here. The other parts of our website are also chock full of information about the land, the residents, and our builder. If you still have questions, contact us at the office.
Why wouldn't I just buy a house in a regular residential subdivision?
Everyone who decides to build in EcoVillage does so for very individual reasons. Some families want a safe, clean, wholesome environment in which to raise their children among neighbors they know and like. Others are empty-nesters looking for a beautiful environment in which to retire or downsize. Some folks have deep personal commitments to the environment and wish to live more lightly on the land among likeminded neighbors. Some have had it with sprawling subdivisions where people drive into their garages at night, close the door, and never know the guy next door. A regular residential subdivision may be the best choice for you. Only you can decide. But, if you've tried that and feel like you want something more, something different, something warmer and more like home, check us out.