Floating Homes in Seattle: What It's Like to Buy (and Live) on Lake Union

When you think of Seattle homes, you probably imagine charming Craftsman-style houses, modern downtown condos, or cozy bungalows tucked into lush neighborhoods. But Seattle has a truly unique offering you won’t find in most cities: floating homes.

Yes, like the one in Sleepless in Seattle. These iconic homes are permanently moored on Lake Union and offer a magical blend of nature, city views, and waterfront lifestyle—something many dream of but few experience.

What Is a Floating Home?

Let’s clear one thing up: a floating home is not a houseboat. Floating homes are real property—they’re connected to water, sewer, and electrical systems, and they don’t have engines. That means they’re bought and sold like traditional homes, and yes, they come with property taxes, too.

Where Can You Find Them?

Seattle is home to about 500 floating homes, and they’re primarily found in these neighborhoods:

• Eastlake

• Portage Bay

• Fremont

• Westlake

These communities are tight-knit and highly sought after, with buyers often waiting months (or even years) for listings to open up.

What’s the Investment Like?

Floating homes come with a premium price tag. Entry-level options can start around $800K, with high-end luxury floating homes surpassing $2 million.

But that’s not all—buyers should also factor in:

• Moorage or dock ownership fees

• Homeowners association (dock) dues

• Specialized insurance

• Float maintenance and inspections

Financing can be a little tricky, as not all lenders handle these niche properties. Working with an experienced agent is key.

Buyer Tips: What to Know Before You Buy

Floating homes are beautiful and unique, but they come with special considerations:

• Ensure your inspector understands floating home systems and the condition of the float (what the home sits on).

• Understand how the dock operates—some are cooperative-style ownerships, others are leased.

• Parking may be limited or off-site.

• Be prepared for different rules for pets, noise, or renovations.

Living the Lake Life

Living in a floating home means paddleboarding from your front door, watching sunsets from your deck, and enjoying the sounds of lapping water instead of traffic. But it’s not for everyone. Noise from boat traffic, colder winters on the water, and limited space are things to consider.

Still, for the right buyer, this lifestyle is pure magic—and absolutely worth the dive in.

Curious About Buying Unique Properties Like This?

I specialize in helping clients discover the hidden gems of Seattle real estate—from floating homes to tucked-away view properties. If this lifestyle speaks to you, let’s talk.

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Amanda Aguiar, Seattle-area Realtor with 23+ years of local insight