Ohio’s Underground Concrete Home Lists for $850K, Featuring a Grass Roof and No Gutter Maintenance

Key points

• The home is located in Huron, Ohio, and is listed for $850,000 on approximately eight acres.
• Constructed in 1977, the solid concrete structure is 90% underground, with a roof covered in dirt, ivy, and myrtle.
• Listing agent Laurie Brill noted that pricing was difficult due to a lack of comparable earth-sheltered homes in northern Ohio.
• The interior includes three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a traditional ranch floor plan with significant natural light from windows and skylights.
• Maintenance is simplified as there are no roof shingles, gutters, or siding to replace, though the roof requires regular mowing.

Background

This listing follows recent interest in alternative housing structures, such as the Texas cob home covered in July 2026, which highlighted the viability and energy efficiency of earth-based construction. While that project focused on modern sustainability and non-toxic materials, the Ohio property represents a long-standing, concrete-based approach to earth-sheltering that prioritizes structural durability and insulation through underground placement.

Why it matters

The listing highlights the niche market for earth-sheltered homes, which offer significant energy efficiency and protection from elements but present unique challenges in valuation and maintenance. It demonstrates that such structures can maintain traditional interior comfort while requiring unconventional upkeep, appealing to buyers seeking privacy and low-maintenance exteriors.

What to watch

The seller, who has lived in the home since 1977, is seeking a new buyer as they age and find maintenance more difficult. The property is expected to attract buyers interested in unique, low-maintenance, and energy-efficient living, though the lack of comparable sales may slow the transaction.