Woman Who Couldn’t Get a Mortgage Builds Her Own Floating Home with a Luxurious Interior

When faced with the challenge of buying a house without a mortgage, many people would give up on their dream home. But not Jen. Instead of letting financial obstacles hold her back, she took a different approach—she designed and built a floating house to live in with her two children. Now, after more than three years of living on the water, Jen has created a cozy and unique home that offers both comfort and freedom.

Jen’s journey into houseboat living began when she realized that finding a boat with three bedrooms was nearly impossible. Since she needed a room for each of her children, she decided to take matters into her own hands. She carefully designed the layout, marking where she wanted the windows and structuring the space to make it as functional as possible.

Once her design was finalized, she commissioned boat builders to construct the steel framework. In just seven weeks, the steelwork and engine were completed, and the boat was delivered from Liverpool. Using a crane, they launched it into the water, marking the beginning of Jen’s new life on board. While the structure was in place, there was still a lot of work to be done before the boat would feel like home.

The next stage of the process took another ten weeks as Jen worked tirelessly to finish the boat’s interior. In total, the entire project—from concept to completion—took just 17 weeks. The cost of the steel framework and engine came to £87,000 ($112,000), while the interior work added another £10,000 ($13,000) to the final cost. Although building a floating home required a significant investment, it was still much more affordable than purchasing a traditional house with a mortgage.

One of the biggest challenges of living on a boat is securing a steady water supply. Jen manages this by using a hose or filling bottles while anchored. Her boat’s water tank holds up to 1,000 liters, which lasts her family about two weeks before needing a refill. Additionally, since the boat is always on the move, it must be relocated every two weeks. Over the course of a year, they travel approximately 32 kilometers in one direction, experiencing different locations and scenery along the way.

Despite the challenges, Jen has created a truly inviting and stylish home. She opted for a modern and functional IKEA kitchen, making sure there was plenty of counter space for cooking. The open-plan design allows for a smooth flow between the kitchen and the living area, which also doubles as a workspace. Here, Jen performs massage and holistic therapy sessions, taking advantage of the serene environment the boat provides.

Unlike many households, Jen and her children live without a television. Instead, they focus on reading and other activities that bring them closer as a family. Each child has their own bedroom, complete with bunk beds that offer additional storage solutions to maximize space. Their rooms are cozy, personal, and designed to be both practical and comfortable.

The bathroom is surprisingly spacious for a houseboat. It features a luxurious double shower equipped with a rainfall showerhead, offering a spa-like experience despite being on the water. Instead of a traditional plumbing system, Jen opted for a composting toilet, which is an eco-friendly alternative that suits their mobile lifestyle.

Jen’s own bedroom is a sanctuary of relaxation. She has a full double bed, a cozy corner for enjoying morning tea, and a front deck where she loves to sit and watch the sunset. The outdoor space is one of her favorite aspects of houseboat living, providing a peaceful retreat where she can unwind after a long day.

One of the unique perks of living on a boat is the ability to use the roof as an additional living space. Jen and her children take full advantage of this, using it as a garden for relaxation, yoga, and even outdoor meals. The rooftop provides an extra escape, offering beautiful views and a peaceful atmosphere that’s hard to find in conventional homes.

Jen’s story is an inspiring reminder that homeownership doesn’t have to follow the traditional path. While many people struggle to secure a mortgage, she took a bold step and found an alternative way to create a home for her family. Through hard work, creativity, and determination, she built a floating home that not only meets her family’s needs but also enhances their quality of life.

For those dreaming of homeownership but feeling restricted by financial limitations, Jen’s journey offers a powerful lesson: thinking outside the box can lead to incredible opportunities. Whether it’s a houseboat, a tiny home, or another unconventional living arrangement, there are countless ways to achieve the dream of having a home to call your own.