When Jen found herself unable to secure a mortgage for a traditional home, she didn’t let the setback define her future. Instead, she took an unconventional route that would not only change her life but inspire countless others along the way. With determination and a creative vision, Jen set out to build a floating home for herself and her two children.
The result of her bold decision is a stunning, fully functional houseboat that reflects her perseverance and innovative spirit. Rather than settling for something that didn’t meet her needs, Jen designed the houseboat entirely from scratch, ensuring every detail served a purpose and provided comfort for her family. The boat features three bedrooms, which is almost unheard of in standard houseboats, along with a fully equipped kitchen and a bathroom. She even created a rooftop retreat that offers an open-air space perfect for yoga, meditation, or simply enjoying the fresh air and peaceful scenery. Now, over three years later, Jen and her children have embraced this unique lifestyle, calling the floating house their home on the water.
Creating a three-bedroom layout on a houseboat presented some serious challenges, but Jen was determined to make it work. She took charge of the design process, making sure that each of her children had a private room of their own. Everything from the placement of windows to the overall room configuration was carefully planned out, with functionality and comfort as her top priorities.
This wasn’t just about building a home—it was about crafting a space where her children could feel safe, secure, and nurtured, even if it floated on water rather than stood on land. What’s even more impressive is how quickly the construction came together. The steel frame of the boat took just seven weeks to complete. Once the structure was in place, Jen and her team spent an additional ten weeks finishing the interior. In total, the project was wrapped up in only 17 weeks.
The frame itself cost $87,000, and Jen budgeted another $10,000 to create a warm and cozy interior space that felt like a real home, not just a floating shell. Every dollar was spent with care, and the final result is a testament to her smart choices and thoughtful design. For the kitchen, Jen chose an IKEA setup, balancing affordability with practicality. The space includes plenty of counter space for meal prep, making it easy to cook for her small family. The living room serves a dual purpose—it’s not only the family gathering area but also Jen’s workspace.
As a massage therapist, she conducts her therapy sessions from home, using the space efficiently and without compromise. There’s no television in the house, which might surprise some people, but for Jen and her kids, it’s been a blessing in disguise. Without the distraction of a screen, her children spend more time reading, exploring their imagination, and appreciating the quiet beauty of their surroundings. The living room also features oversized, cushioned beds that are perfect for lounging and enjoying the view.
As the sun sets over the water, the family often gathers here, taking in the peaceful scene and savoring the calmness that comes with living so close to nature. Jen’s story is more than just a tale of building a houseboat—it’s a lesson in turning adversity into opportunity. When traditional homeownership was no longer an option, she didn’t give up or settle for less. Instead, she pushed forward, planned meticulously, and created something truly special for her family. Her floating home isn’t just a structure; it’s a symbol of resilience, creativity, and the power of believing in yourself. In a world where challenges often seem insurmountable, Jen’s journey proves that with enough determination and vision, it’s possible to build not only a home but an entirely new way of life that works for you and those you love.
