How Do You Get A House In Elder Scrolls Online
Ah, Tamriel. A land of dragons, daring quests, and, for many of us, the persistent dream of a cozy corner to call our own. Forget cramped inn rooms and the ever-present threat of a goblin raid. In the sprawling world of The Elder Scrolls Online (ESO), we're all about building our empires, and that starts with a place to hang our enchanted hats. But how does one actually snag a bit of real estate in this fantastical realm? Let's break down the glorious, sometimes bewildering, process of getting a house in ESO, no matter if you're a seasoned adventurer or just dipping your toes into the digital ink of Tamriel's lore.
First things first, let's talk about the why. Why bother with a house in ESO? It's more than just a place to stash your legendary loot or display your questionable taxidermy collection. Your ESO abode is a sanctuary. It's where you can craft in peace, display your hard-earned trophies, house your loyal companions (both the animal and the… slightly less so), and even host friends for a virtual get-together. Think of it as your personal Tamrielic Pinterest board, brought to life. And let's be honest, who doesn't want their own little piece of the world, even if it's populated by pixels and persistent players?
The Grand Entryway: Crown Store vs. In-Game Gold
Now, to the nitty-gritty: acquiring your domicile. ESO offers two primary pathways to homeownership, each with its own appeal and price tag. The most direct route, for those who prefer instant gratification, is through the Crown Store. Here, you'll find a dazzling array of properties, from humble starter cottages to sprawling manors that would make even a Daedric Prince blush.
The Crown Store uses ESO's premium currency, Crowns. These can be purchased with real-world money. The prices vary wildly depending on the size and prestige of the property. You'll see everything from charming starter homes like the "Daggerfall Overlook" (perfect for a budding thief) to the opulent "Elysian Holds" (ideal for a grand mage or a particularly ostentatious Nord).
However, for the gold-hoarding warriors and shrewd merchants among us, there's the in-game gold route. Many of the same properties available in the Crown Store can also be purchased directly from real estate agents scattered across Tamriel. These agents, often found in major cities or specific housing districts, will list properties for sale using your accumulated gold. This is where those hours spent completing quests, selling unwanted gear, and dabbling in the robust ESO economy really pay off.
The gold prices are often equivalent to the Crown price, but can fluctuate slightly depending on game updates and economic trends. This method appeals to players who enjoy the grind and the satisfaction of earning their virtual fortune. It’s like saving up for that dream car, but instead of horsepower, you’re buying horsepower… for your carriage, maybe?
The 'First Home' Frenzy: Starter Homes for the Budding Landlord
For many, their first foray into ESO housing is with one of the more modest dwellings. These are usually available for a reasonable sum of gold and are a fantastic introduction to the housing system. Think of them as the ESO equivalent of your first apartment – a bit small, maybe a little quirky, but undeniably yours.
Examples include the "Cozy Bretonic Cottage", the "Imperial City Tenements", or the "Khajiiti Caravan". These are perfect for experimenting with decorations, learning the ropes of item placement, and just having a designated space that isn't a bank vault or a busy crafting station. They’re also excellent for housing your first few crafted sets or showcasing a particularly prized sword you found on a perilous journey.
Don't underestimate the charm of these smaller homes! With clever decorating, a modest dwelling can feel incredibly cozy and personal. A well-placed rug, a flickering hearth, and a few strategically placed books can transform even the humblest abode into a haven. It’s all about making it feel like you.
Beyond the Basics: The Mid-Tier Manor and the Mega-Mansion
As your adventures in Tamriel continue and your coffers swell, you'll inevitably start eyeing the larger properties. These are the mid-tier homes, offering more space and often more scenic locations. Think of these as upgrading from your first apartment to a nice starter house in the suburbs.
These might include homes like the "Alinor Front Door" in the Summerset Isles, a beautiful elven dwelling, or the "Adabal’s House" in the heart of the Imperial City. These homes come with more rooms, larger outdoor areas, and often a more prestigious address. They’re great for displaying larger collections, hosting more elaborate social gatherings, or simply having room to spread out.
Then there are the mega-mansions. These are the ultimate status symbols in ESO housing. We're talking sprawling estates, multi-story fortresses, and islands that could house an entire guild. Properties like "Crestwood Magnolia" in Valenwood, or the colossal "Serenity Falls Estate" in the Rift, are the stuff of legend. These require a significant investment of either Crowns or gold, and are typically the domain of dedicated collectors and guilds.
These behemoths offer unparalleled opportunities for customization. You can create intricate obstacle courses, elaborate gardens, or even recreate famous landmarks from Elder Scrolls lore. The possibilities are, quite literally, endless. It's a playground for your imagination and a testament to your dedication to the ESO lifestyle.
Unlocking Your First Dwelling: The Quest for a Deed
So, you've scouted the properties, weighed your budget, and decided on your dream home. What's next? You need to obtain a deed. As mentioned, these are acquired either through the Crown Store or from specific NPC vendors in the game world.
When you approach an NPC vendor offering houses, you'll usually find them standing near a relevant plot of land or within a housing-specific area. Look for names like "Housing Broker" or similar. Interacting with them will bring up a dialogue window showcasing the available properties in that region, their prices, and whether they are currently available for purchase.
Once you have the gold or Crowns, simply click the purchase button. The deed is yours, and your new abode will be added to your collection. You'll then be able to teleport to your new house directly from your character menu, or by using a specific keybind (usually 'H' by default) which brings up your housing interface.
Location, Location, Location: Choosing Your Tamrielic Territory
The world of Tamriel is vast and diverse, and so are its housing options. Each region offers a unique architectural style and a distinct flavor, reflecting the culture of its inhabitants. Choosing where to build your home is as much about aesthetics as it is about practicality.
Are you a fan of the stoic, northern charm of Skyrim? Then a mountain-side lodge or a cozy Nordic inn might be your perfect fit. Perhaps you prefer the elegant, nature-infused architecture of the Elves? The Summerset Isles or Valenwood will offer breathtaking elven estates. Or maybe you're drawn to the bustling, organized cities of the Imperials? Their tiered housing offers a sense of urban sophistication.
Consider your playstyle too. If you spend a lot of time in a particular alliance's territory, buying a house there can be a convenient fast-travel point. Guild leaders might opt for larger, more central properties to host guild events. Solo players might prefer a secluded sanctuary away from the hustle and bustle.
Each housing area also often has unique crafting stations and even special ambient effects. The music in a Greenshade home will be different from the music in a Wrothgar stronghold. It’s all part of the immersive experience.
Furnishing Your Fortress: The Art of Interior Design
Once you own a property, the real fun begins: decorating! ESO boasts an incredible variety of furniture and decorative items, ranging from functional crafting stations and research desks to whimsical decorations like sentient plants and floating Daedric artifacts.
You can acquire furnishings in several ways. The most common are through the Crown Store, where you can purchase individual items or themed bundles. You can also craft many furniture items yourself if you have the relevant crafting skills leveled up (Woodworking, Blacksmithing, etc.).
Another fantastic source is through Master Crafts and Guild Traders. Players who are master crafters can create truly unique and sought-after furniture pieces. You can then find these items being sold by other players in guild stores. This is where you can find some truly rare and exquisite decorations.
Finally, completing certain achievements and quests will often reward you with unique furnishings. Think of these as trophies from your adventures, proudly displayed in your home. For instance, defeating a particularly challenging world boss might unlock a statue of that very beast.
The beauty of ESO housing is the freedom it gives you. Want to create a bustling tavern? A serene zen garden? A spooky vampire lair? The tools are there. Experiment with different item placements, lighting, and even mounts to create a truly personalized space. It's your own little corner of Tamriel to shape as you see fit.
Beyond Aesthetics: Functional Housing Elements
While the visual appeal of a well-decorated home is undeniable, ESO housing also offers practical benefits. As mentioned earlier, you can place crafting stations in your home. This is a massive convenience, allowing you to craft, research, and enchant without having to travel to crowded public stations.
You can also place research desks for your crafting disciplines, speeding up your research timers. This is a huge boon for serious crafters who are trying to unlock all the traits for their gear. Imagine never having to wait in line at a research desk again!
Perhaps one of the most exciting functional additions is the ability to display trophies and achievements. This includes mounts, pets, and even collectible items that you've earned through dedicated play. It’s a way to showcase your accomplishments and tell the story of your character's journey.
Furthermore, you can place guest beds. While these don't offer any tangible gameplay benefit, they are a fun social feature. Players who visit your home can interact with these beds, and it’s a charming way to acknowledge their presence. It’s like leaving out cookies for your guests, but with more pixels.
The Guild Hall: A Community Cornerstone
For guilds, housing takes on a whole new dimension. Guilds can purchase a Guild Hall, a much larger property designed to accommodate multiple members. These halls are fantastic for storing guild items, hosting guild events, and providing a central meeting point for members.
Guild Halls often come with specific features like larger crafting areas, dedicated display rooms for guild achievements, and even training dummies for practicing combat. They are the heart of a guild, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose.
The process of acquiring a Guild Hall is similar to acquiring a personal residence, but it requires guild funds and is typically managed by guild leadership. The investment is substantial, but the benefits for guild cohesion and organization are immeasurable. It's the digital equivalent of your local community center, but with more dragons.
Tips and Tricks for Aspiring Homeowners
Navigating the world of ESO housing can be a bit overwhelming at first. Here are a few handy tips to make your journey smoother:
- Start Small: Don't feel pressured to buy the biggest, most expensive house right away. A starter home is perfect for learning the ropes and getting a feel for decorating.
- Budget Wisely: Decide whether you want to primarily use gold or Crowns for your purchases. Save up accordingly.
- Visit Different Regions: Explore various zones to see the different architectural styles and find a location that resonates with you.
- Utilize Guild Traders: These are your best bet for finding unique and affordable furniture items crafted by other players.
- Experiment with Layouts: Don't be afraid to try different arrangements of furniture. Sometimes the most unexpected placements create the most interesting results.
- Focus on Functionality First: If crafting is a big part of your gameplay, prioritize placing your crafting stations before you get lost in decorative pursuits.
- Don't Forget Lighting: Good lighting can dramatically change the ambiance of your home. Candles, lamps, and even magical orbs can create different moods.
- Save Your Favorite Items: If you find a piece of furniture you love but don't have a place for yet, buy it! You can always store it.
And a fun little fact for you: Did you know that some of the most sought-after furniture pieces are actually disguised as trash or common objects in the game world? Keep an eye out for anything unusual!
Ultimately, getting a house in Elder Scrolls Online is an enriching part of the experience. It’s a chance to express your creativity, personalize your gameplay, and build a space that truly feels like your own in a vast and exciting virtual world. It's a testament to the idea that even in the midst of epic battles and world-saving quests, there's always room for a little bit of cozy. After all, even a dragon slayer needs a place to relax, put their feet up, and maybe admire that impressive collection of stolen cheese.
And in a way, isn't that what we all strive for in our own lives? A place of comfort, a space to express ourselves, a sanctuary from the daily grind. Whether it's a sprawling estate on a virtual continent or a quiet corner in our own physical world, the desire for a home, a place to truly be, is a fundamental human need. So go forth, adventurers, and build your dream dwellings. May your hearths always be warm and your larders always full, in Tamriel and beyond.