Liens & proper Title: Verify that the owner has full ownership papers, and get the owner to certify in writing that there is no liens on the vessel.

Get a Sea Trial: You wouldn't buy a car without a test-drive, why buy a boat without a Sea trial. What a better time to see how the house boat functions and handles.

Marine Survey: You wouldn't purchase a house without getting a home inspection done, so be sure to get the houseboat verified by a qualified Marine Surveyor. Banks and Insurance companies will ask for them.

Everything Works: Take your time when visiting a houseboat for sale, and to help keep track of things, we prepared a free Houseboat Checklist to use and makes notes of all the Equipment, Accessories, and Options.

Collision or Sank: Many years ago, my wife and I drove 7 hours to see a boat, only to have the owner tell us that the houseboat had sank at the dock 5 years previous. Make it a point to ask the owner if the boat has been in a major collision or has sunk?

Speak to neighbors: If an opportunity happens to start a conversation with the neighbors, it's a great way to get valuable (hopefully truthful) information about the houseboats history. Things like how long it's been for sale, why they are selling, and any other pertinent details.

Conditional Offer: Buying a houseboat is an exciting time, possibly stressful, or highly emotional, but let's not forget also "logical". If you feel the need to make an offer, make sure that it is conditional on a complete marine survey. Don't get yourself in trouble because of a slick sales pitch.