Houseboats offer a unique opportunity to live on the water. It is the perfect home for those who love the great outdoors and those who want to enjoy breath-taking views every morning.
However, it’s not an investment that everyone is willing to make on a whim. Even if it sounds desirable, you’ll need to be certain it’s the right choice for you.
Before you consider going ahead with the purchase of a houseboat, it’s important to ask yourself some questions first. In this post, we’ll discuss some things you should answer to help with your final decision.
What’s my budget?
The first question you need to ask yourself is how much can you realistically afford. Just like a regular property, houseboats come with a wide range of price tags.
Before browsing your options, determine your budget beforehand. This will help you prevent overspending and will ensure that you can make the necessary repayments.
Keep in mind that in addition to the initial purchase cost, you will have to factor in ongoing fees. These can quickly add up, and the last thing you want is to be taken by surprise.
Can I afford the maintenance costs?
Speaking of ongoing fees, houseboats require maintenance to keep them in good condition. When assessing your budget, factor in costs such as cleaning and repairs.
If you’ve bought second-hand, there may also be other improvements you need to make. For example, the interior might require a new coat of paint and you may also have to order some replacement boat cushions.
How will I use it?
One of the most critical questions to ask yourself is how you plan on using the houseboat. While this won’t affect your budget directly, it will help you figure out the type of boat you will need.
For instance, some individuals only want to use them on weekend getaways or extended vacations. If you plan on living in it full-time, you may want a larger sturdier option.
Who will use it?
The next thing to think about is who else will be using the houseboat with you. Do you have family or friends who will often accompany you, and how many people will be sleeping or staying overnight?
You want to make sure there’s adequate sleeping space, otherwise, things can get rather uncomfortable. If there’ll be small children onboard, you will also need to consider additional safety measures.
How much space do I need?
Houseboats come in various shapes and sizes, so think about your needs outside of just sleeping arrangements. Will you require more than one bathroom or do you want a full kitchen with all the bells and whistles?
Knowing your necessary amenities will help you choose the right boat and the appropriate size. Just note that you have to be realistic with your expectations. There is a good chance you may have to make sacrifices, as it’s difficult to find exactly what you’re after at a reasonable price point.
What’s the condition?
If you’re buying a used houseboat, thoroughly inspect its condition with the help of an expert. Check for any leaks and noticeable signs of wear and tear.
It’s also important to purchase through a reputable dealer. You don’t want to get out on the water, only to find you have to spend all of your leftover money on repairs.
Where will I store it?
Another thing to consider before you make your purchase is how you are going to store everything. Some individuals prefer to store their houseboat on land during the winter months, while others leave it in the water all year long.
Factor in how easy it is to access your chosen location and additional fees. If you’ll be storing outdoors, you’ll have to invest in some type of cover to prevent damage and cut down on cleaning.
What are the regulations?
Finally, and probably one of the most important things to remember, is to check the local, state and federal regulations on houseboats. This information will determine where you can and cannot moor your boat, whether you need a specific license or insurance and any other requirements you need to meet.
Failure to do this can result in fines and issues later on down the track. It’s always better to be one step ahead.
Final words
And that’s it! Buying a houseboat is incredibly exciting, but it requires a lot of thought and consideration before making a final decision. Ask yourself these eight questions and you’ll be better equipped to make the right choice.
[disclosure*]
