Can You Live in a Houseboat in Texas?

Living in a houseboat may not be the first thing you consider when looking at housing options, but with the number of houseboats for sale in Texas increasing, it’s becoming a viable option for many people.

There are not only many used houseboats for sale in Texas but this state has some of the most relaxed liveaboard laws in the country. As such, people can live on a boat long-term with fewer issues compared to other states.

Liveaboard is not only allowed in Texas, but it’s also a fairly straightforward policy. You can live in any waters that lead to the sea, which the state of Texas has in plentiful supply.

Whether you want to experience a less common way of living or want to spend your retirement in a houseboat, Texas is one of the best options. Plus, when you’re looking at houseboats for sale in TX it’s important to note that houseboat life also comes with a range of benefits that we will explore in the next section.

What are the Advantages of Living in a Houseboat in Texas?

Even though living on a houseboat is different from a typical living arrangement, it comes with numerous advantages that make it an appealing option to many people. Let’s look at a few of these benefits below.

Beautiful View

When you live in a boat, you have a home that will always come with a beautiful water view. Living in the marina can become an entire lifestyle, allowing for a slower pace of life, constant access to water activities, and a scenic environment at a much more affordable price. And that’s a huge advantage that makes many people look into houseboats for sale in Texas, used or new.

Lower Cost

Even though there are expenses that come with living aboard a boat, there’s also the fact that buying houseboats for sale by owner in Texas will be cheaper than if you would buy a traditional home.

That’s especially true when you consider that you can park the boat in many different locations, some of which have soaring real estate prices.

Mobility

Finally, houseboats allow for true mobility as you get to take your boat into any eligible waters and stay there. That means that you get to change your living location according to your preferences, trying out multiple options until you find what you like best.

For those who don’t want to be permanently attached to a single area, looking into houseboats for sale in Texas might be a great way to maintain flexibility.

Tips to Consider Before Buying a Houseboat for Sale in Texas

If you haven’t looked for small houseboats for sale in Texas before, the process can seem daunting, as there are many things to consider and risks that might be hard to manage.

But the good news is that when it comes to floating homes for sale in Texas, the potential to create a true home paradise on the water will make the effort you have to put into the process well worth it. There are also simple tips you can follow to make it more manageable. Here are a few you should consider:

• Figure Out Your Budget. The first step in buying a boat is determining how much you can spend, especially if you will finance the purchase. You will need to qualify for a houseboat loan, which will typically require at least 20% downpayment and usually have higher interest rates than traditional housing.
• Inspect the Boat. Just like with any home, buying houseboats for sale in Texas requires a thorough inspection by a professional to avoid any unpleasant surprises. And since it is a boat and not just a home, it will need a comprehensive marine survey to determine that the boat is suitable for use and in good condition.
• Consider Additional Fees. When searching for houseboats for sale on the Texas coast, it’s important to remember that you will not just pay for the purchase but also for insurance, dock rental fees, and even homeowners association fees. Figure out how much you are likely to pay in addition to buying used or new houseboats for sale in Texas so that you have enough money left over to cover all necessary expenses.