How to Buy a Houseboat
If you love being on the water but tend to miss the comforts of home, consider buying a houseboat. The purchase will represent a significant investment, so carefully weigh your needs and their costs.
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Instructions
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Review the most critical factors as you browse different models, Consider the price, the size, whether to buy new or used, any insurance coverage and the duration of its warranty.
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Confirm that your boat comes equipped with a substantial set of standard construction features. Select the hull material (aluminum or steel). Ask for insulation, tempered safety glass and a fade-resistant exterior surface. Test the propulsion and navigation options, including the engines, helm instruments and steering.
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Confirm the quality of the electrical system, including the wiring, batteries and chargers, television and telephone cord sets, the main electrical panel, central HVAC and a ship-to-shore radio system.
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Look at the interior design and furnishings. Examine the lighting and fans, kitchen equipment, bed and bath items, closets, cabinets and hot water tank capacity. Know what deck accessories are included, such as gates and railings, lights and horns, ropes, hooks, bumpers, buoys and swimming ladders.
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Choose whether to customize your boat by adding optional features like a home theater system, an elevator to the upper deck, a hot tub, a water slide and any other furnishings or interior designs. Describe your vision to the retailer and ask for a quote.
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Buy from a retailer with a financing program that works with multiple lenders to get a more competitive rate. Purchase insurance coverage that includes broad all-risk coverage, personal property and tender coverage, emergency towing, a replacement provision for the houseboat and uninsured boater clauses.
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