What we really want to do.

About a year since the last post.  Yep, that keeps readers interested!

Houseboat?

I'm still alive.  I'm still interested in houseboats.  But lately a new twist has come into the picture.  It was pointed out by my wife, that retirement isn't that far away.  In 10 years I'll be qualified for full retirement, and she'll be a couple years ahead of me.  In 2-3 years we can hopefully swing getting a houseboat, but a few years after that we can retire.  Is buying a houseboat what we want to do??

Economics- Even a cheap houseboat is a substantial expense.  Besides the boat, there is

• the maintenance 
• the dock/storage fees
• fuel, not only for the boat, but the gas driving back and forth to the lake
• Associated expenses like life jackets, water toys, etc

In addition, a houseboat, like any other RV or vehicle, depreciates constantly.

By holding off on the boat, that money could be put toward savings or paying off bills.  Maybe invest the money on trips investigating future retirement locations (I want to leave winter behind).

Maybe a better idea would be to invest in a cabin or condo near the lake.  A quick search indicates that the cost is only marginally higher, but after a few years you'll have equity build up in land-based property.  In many cases, if you stay there long enough, you can actually get out more than you paid!  That would give a weekend get away, be usable 12 month a year (around here boats are generally 6-9 months of use).

WHAT TO DO??  If you have any suggestions, share!