Good morning,
I just registered as a member and have a few questions. I have been power boating for a few years now with my 40’ Silverton Aft-cabin. I live on the Delaware River in New Jersey. I am about to retire and we are looking to move to a warmer climate on the East Coast. We talked about living on a houseboat, instead of buying a home (Land house). I know really nothing about houseboats, so I figured, go to where the knowledge is, so I am here. What is a good builder name in houseboats? What do you look for, problem wise on a houseboat? I see most are aluminum and not fiberglass like I am used to. What type water is most kept in? (Tidal, lake, river). I would have a surveyor look at her before buying, but what are the major naked eye defects a buyer should walk away from? Is there a good website for a novice to read about houseboats, I know there are 100’s on the web, but which are good? Any help would be appreciated. I hope you do not mind me picking your brains.

Welcome to the forum grimreaper.

Are you looking to purchase new or used?
If you are buying used, I suggest you read this article:
http://www.houseboatingworld.com/content/view/104/1/

Most houseboats are designed for inland water use.

I would suggest you take some time and read the forum posts here. Also check out the articles in our article section.

There is alot of information that can answer your questions.