A houseboat is quite literally a home that floats. Most people assume that a houseboat makes a great vacation property, and that it's a fun and exciting way to temporarily experience a different way of life. However, there are many people around the country who permanently reside on houseboats.
Think this lifestyle is for you? Here are the pros and cons that you need to consider before you move onto a houseboat full-time.
The Benefits of Living on a Houseboat
You will get to wake up to a waterfront view every day. Your houseboat will be docked at a marina, giving you unparalleled access to the lake or bay on which you reside.
You will get to enjoy the benefits of living on the water. While most people enjoy boating, tubing and fishing during their vacations, these can be your usual afternoon or evening activities.
There is no yard maintenance when you live on a houseboat. You won't have to shovel the snow or mow the lawn ever again!
There may be some financial advantages to permanently residing on a houseboat. Depending on the state and municipality in which you reside, you may not have to pay property taxes on your houseboat.
The Disadvantages to Living on a Houseboat
You will likely have to join and adhere to the rules of a homeowners' association. Most marinas that include houseboats as permanent residences require those who live there to join an association that governs the way that boats are maintained, where they are docked, and more.
There are additional fees involved with living on a houseboat. In addition to payments on the boat itself, you likely will have to pay rental fees for the slip you are using in the marina.
A houseboat typically has less living space than in a traditional single-family home. Houseboats tend to be smaller and less extravagant than homes that are built on land.
Before you purchase your own houseboat and select a marina, it might be wise to rent a houseboat for a week or two to experience this way of life for yourself. Forever Houseboats offers a variety of luxury houseboats in different sizes and in various marinas. Learn more about living on a houseboat by contacting us today.