Living on a houseboat
In former days, living on a houseboat was mainly seen as an emergency solution in the absence of a better alternative. Living on a houseboat was cheaper and therefore suitable for the less wealthy people. It was seen as a simple and poor habitat. There was little luxury, the accommodation was often small, houseboats were not insulated and damp. That is why the prejudices about living on a houseboat were negative for a long time.
However, many thing have changed in recent decades. Most houseboats now have an established and legalized berth and are connected to public utilities (gas, water, electricity, cable). Houseboats are being much better maintained or even replaced by more luxurious units, with insulated windows, central heating, luxury kitchen, luxury bathroom and sometimes even a garden with a shed.
The current houseboat resident chooses very deliberately for this unique habitat. Living on a houseboat gives many residents a sense of freedom. Almost every houseboat is unique and there is no noise from the neighbors.
The demand for houseboats is growing, as more people discover this unique habitat. The number of berths however remains the same because of the policy of the Dutch government, so the supply of houseboats will not increase. This means that prices will only rise. Therefore a houseboat is a reasonable stable valued property, provided that you maintain it properly. But you probably never want to sell your home on the water again, once you have experienced the pleasure of living on a houseboat!



