Tom Elpel

Thomas J. Elpel took an alternative path in life. The money he saved by avoiding college he invested into buying land and building a passive solar stone and log home. By eliminating rent or mortgage payments or other significant recurring bills, Elpel gained the freedom to pursue his own dreams in life, exploring wilderness survival, botany, and sustainable living. He is the founder of Green University LLC, Outdoor Wilderness Living School LLC (OWLS), HOPS Press, and the Jefferson River Canoe Trail. Elpel has written nine books including Living Homes: Stone Masonry, Log, and Strawbale Construction. Elpel demonstrates that it is still possible for anyone to live the Dream – to own a great home mortgage-free. See a virtual tour of his house here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QWKPisywxvY