I wish to live in a houseboat instead of a house. What would be the cost?

Question

I wish to live in a houseboat instead of a house. The simpler life has always been attractive to me; I'm an artist who doesn't need that much space. After weighing all of the pros and cons it sounds like a better life than I originally thought. (I have spent the night on houseboats before.)

What would be the cost for a USED boat? I'm not crazy enough to buy a new one. Note that since I'm going to be living on it constantly, I'm going to need something that I can live comfortably in. Washer and dryer would be nice, but not necessary as laundromats exist. Shower or tub is definitely needed. Toilet that I can flush #2 in is a preference. I plan to live alone. I will not be driving it anywhere. Links to useful websites that speak in layman's terms would be lovely.

Answer 1

The cost of the houseboat itself can vary greatly.  Do searches for "used houseboats for sale" and you will see lots of options.  Then visit marinas in your area and ask about the going rates.  You may even find houseboats for sale at those marinas.  Not all marinas allow live aboards, but many do.  Monthly slip rental can vary a great deal but count on $200 a month for sure, and add electricity to that.  

It is not so much the toilet you have to think about as having a proper holding tank.  The marina will have a "pump out" service, wihich will most likely be an added cost.

Look carefully at the type of cooking arrangements for any houseboat you buy.  Many people on boats go with propane.  Some still use alcohol stoves, but if you will be permanently at a serviced dock you could even go with electricity.

It is not difficult to live on a houseboat.  They have tons of living space compared to a sailboat, for example.  

Here are a few links that might help you.  Feel free to e-mail if you have any questions you think I might be able to help with.  I lived on a boat - mostly at anchor and cruising - for quite a while.  It's a great life.

Answer 2

look for a realestate listing in your area. i live on lake union in seattle and I love mine. paying the morage is the most costly  part.Make sure you have it inspected by a person who has done house boats before.

Answer 3

Rent a house boat for a few months or so before making a life altering decision. It will be difficult to find 1 for rent but if you try you may be surprised.

Also, take all the courses for both maintenance and safety that you can. You will never be too prepared!!!

Cost? .... $40,000 - $240,000 and up!! Get 1/2 - 3/4 of what you can afford. ... You'll need the money saved for later repairs and maintenance!!! Trust me!!!