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By Victor Epand 

Some people buy houseboats to live in them all year round while others have them just for a summer vacation while they keep a permanent residence on land. In either case a house boat is a substantial investment, so you want to be sure of what your getting before you make that final sale.

If you decide to go for a new houseboat, you can buy one already built, build one yourself or have someone build it for you. However, many people choose to buy a pre-owned houseboat. One advantage of purchasing a used or pre-owned houseboat is that there may already be certain amenities on board that the owner will throw in at no extra charge. These may include small furniture items, kitchen utensils, etc.

Buying a house boat should be treated the same as if you were buying a regular house. When you go to look at a house, you would normally look through it closely and ask the current owner questions. Looking at houseboats, new or used should be no different.

When inspecting a houseboat you will need to check all areas inside and outside the boat. Some things to be checked are more important than others. Things such as paint and carpeting are minor but you should still check them. Paint that is fading or chipping is an indication that a paint job will be needed soon. Carpet that is moldy should be replaced by the owner. You should also check all of the lights outside and inside to see if they are working properly.

Two of the most important areas to check are the hull and the roof. If these areas are damaged and not in good condition, you could end up with a costly repair bill. Check the hull for any signs of damage or rust. It can cost you several thousand dollars to replace a steel hull. Be sure to inspect the joints for any signs of weakness or cracks on both steel hulls and aluminum hulls. When Inspecting the roof take time to walk all around it. Look for cracks and chips in the gel coat. Checking for weak spots will reassure you that there is no rotting wood.

When you go to inspect a boat, make sure you have a flashlight handy and don't be afraid to ask the current owner questions. If you are not sure you know what to look for, you should seek the help of a professional or at least someone with more knowledge about boats.