MLS #1657044  – SOLD!!  $2,340,000

Fremont’s ‘Libelle’ only once in your lifetime will you experience Lake Union Living aboard one of Seattle’s most luxurious Floating Homes, a Seattle Houseboat.  Custom crafted in 2015 with extreme detail, stunning open beamed ceilings,  spectacular woodwork, and built-ins throughout.  From the time you come in the grand entry with hi ceilings, you will fall in love with the warmth of the woods. 

Immaculately maintained by its single owner, this mesmerizing craftsman features a coveted 2,352 SF, 3 bedroom/ 2.5 bath, an expansive great room floor plan, high vaulted beamed ceilings, walls of windows, and a true chefs kitchen. The huge living room and dining room open to the kitchen. 

You will never want to leave this home, nor do you need to. It has everything. From the living room, go through the beautiful French doors to an oversized deck overlooking views to the West for spectacular sunrises and sunshine all day long. In the heat of the late afternoon enjoy the glimmering sunsets. 

The main level features a large bedroom which can also double as a  large den and a half bath on the main level as well. 

On the third level accessed by a spiral staircase is a swanky additional den or what have you with a small private deck at the top of the world. 

On the lower level is the 2nd bedroom with a built-in desk and a 3/4 bathroom. Down the hall is the master suite complete with built-in’s, stunning five-piece master bath and YES a jacuzzi tub, and walk-in closet to die for. Exit the patio door to a private water level deck with water access for swimming, resting in a hammock, or sharing a nightcap while watching the nightlight. 

You will thoroughly love the Fremont bridge openings, that you are on the Burke Gillman Trail, at the Lake Washington Rowing club, and a spectacular location to Google, Adobe, Tableau and so much more. 

Skillful artistry of construction methods throughout and no necessity missed making this home a very special place to call a forever home. 

The floating property includes long term Slip Lease: $650/m, 35 years remaining, plus two 10-year extension options. Dock Utility Fee: Variable, ~$35/m.

To Schedule a showing Call (206) 419-0065

Linda M Bagley – Linda@Specialagentsrealty.com

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Special Agents Realty closes $3,000,000 Floating Home

We are pleased to announce that the Executive Floating Home at Fairview Landing has successfully closed. We congratulate the Sellers and wish the new Buyers many years of enjoyment in this gorgeous Seattle floating home.

Congratulations to all!

The post Fairview Landing Executive Floating Home SOLD!!! appeared first on Special Agents Realty.

SOLD!

Waterfront You Can Put Your Toes In!

When love stories are written, this is the houseboat that will always be remembered as the True Love Story… A beautiful Dual Stern Paddle Wheel Houseboat you will fall in love with and make new memories. Love songs were written for this beautiful home or home away from home that has everything to live for a day or a lifetime. Every aspect of living comfortably was considered when doing a total remodel in 2017. The KevLin has been hauled out with all maintenance completed and fully Surveyed for easy closing. All furnishings including the dishes are negotiable, so completely turn-key.

Amenities and details

Purchase Price $875,000.00 – MLS #1625268

-Slip rented – $1,480 / mo plus liveaboard $250 / mo (see slip note below)
-Boat alongside permitted with fee (must be insured)
-Off-street parking pass for 1 vehicle (not assigned for liveaboard)
-Houseboat Hull Dimensions – 59’5”’ X 18′
-LOA (Length Over All) including paddles 72′
-Cargo hold storage space 59’5”’ X 18′
-FOWR #700 (Floating On-Water Residence)
-Fully furnished (optional turnkey)
-Three stories, just shy 1,300 Square Feet
-2 bedroom, 1.5 bathrooms (half bath on the main level)
-Built-in Queen Murphy bed in 2nd bedroom
-Hardwood hand scraped Teak flooring throughout (new 2009)
-Stack front load washer/dryer (new washer seal December 2019 and both serviced)
-All decks refinished in 2019 and 2020
-Huge rooftop deck with outdoor speakers (repainted July 2020)
-Large deck off the master bedroom on the mid-deck (additional new paint in the cargo hold as needed)
-Main level deck off the living room and walk around decks on all levels (new fiberglass in 2016 and repainted every 2 years)
-Stunning Kitchen/baths remodel featuring; 36″ 5 burner Verona gas range with double ovens, Dekton countertop throughout, Microwave, Counter Depth Refrigerator w/ice/water in door, double doors and 2 drawers,  Wine cooler, newer Dishwasher, soft close cabinets, and drawers. Amazing corner Magic Cabinet (new 2017 total remodel and all appliances serviced December 2019)
-New Propane line 2019 to the kitchen range
-Heated master bath tile flooring (new 2017 remodel)
-WiFi-enabled (with Alexa) bathroom vent fan for music, news etc anytime
-3 stone vessel sinks in upper master bath and lower half bath (new 2017 remodel)
-Restoration Hardware Submarine portal medicine cabinets (new 2017 remodel)
-4′ X 4′ custom shower, with a Teak fold-up seat and rain shower (new 2017 remodel)
-Large freshwater storage tanks with a pressure pump (never out and always great water pressure)
-2 Large black water tanks forward and aft with new 2017 macerator toilets
-Gerber solar shades throughout (new 2017 remodel)
-Updated LED lighting throughout (new 2017 remodel)
-Smart thermostats (new 2017 remodel)
-Marine wiring w/updated marine electrical (in 2017 remodel)
-Exterior outlets added on each level (new 2017 remodel)
-Updated electrical panel (in 2017 remodel)
-Two 50 AMPs (110 AMP)
-Tank/Battery/Water level indicator monitor panel (new 2017 remodel)
-3 Cargo Hold Access Hatches
-Forward exterior with fuel and upper bath blackwater tankage
-Mid hatch in the kitchen is the largest for storage and freshwater tanks
-Aft hatch in the Utility room is for storage and lower toilet black water tank
-Solenoid shut off in the kitchen (new 2017 remodel)
-14′ X 5′ Engine, Generator Mechanical Room
-Upper-level Pilothouse (new lighting July 2020)
See optional master bedroom remodel design for California King option (note: there is a window in the master bedroom closet)

For more information – Email Linda@SpecialAgentsRealty.com 

Linda M Bagley (Owner/Seller is licensed broker) 206-419-0065

Virtual Tour: https://tours.virtuance.com/884527?a=1

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We would like to wish you and your family a wonderful 2018! Kevin & Linda have had lots of great adventure during 2017 and have learned a lot during the year. We hope to share with you some useful and fun information that we have gathered during the year. For some of you, this is VERY important information. For others, we hope it will be educational and informative.
As many of you know, we are first and foremost Residential Real Estate Brokers, listing and selling homes and condos throughout the Puget Sound Region. Many of you may also know that we are specialists in Water Properties (Floating Homes, Houseboats, and Waterfront Properties). As such, we’ve broken down the newsletter into 2 main categories – Residential Real Estate and Water Properties.

Property Tax Deductions
The new tax plan has implications for your Property Tax Deductions as well as Sales Tax deductions. The two are now related to each other with regard to deductions. For 2018, you are now allowed to deduct up to $10,000 in State and Local taxes and you must choose between Property Taxes and Sales Tax. For many of you, that means your deduction could be limited compared to previous years.  Many people will want to try to deduct 2018 taxes in 2017, however, the IRS will only allow prepaid property taxes if the state has already done its 2018 assessment. King County does not allow pre-paying your 2018 taxes in 2017 and will return any payments sent in for this purpose.

Standard Deduction Doubled
The Standard Deduction has doubled, and in some cases, the Standard Deduction may be more appealing than Itemization. The National Association of Realtors and the National Association of Home Builders opposed this, as it may mean fewer people will be taking the mortgage interest deduction which could lower housing prices.

Rental Properties In Seattle
If you have a Rental Property in Seattle, you MUST register your property and your property WILL be inspected. This is known as the Rental Registration & Inspection Ordinance. NOTE: This rule applies to ALL residential rental properties INCLUDING Floating Homes and Floating On-Water Residences.
http://www.seattle.gov/dpd/codesrules/licensingregistration/RRIO/ownersmanagers/default.htm

Short-Term Rentals in Seattle
New regulations were voted on and approved by Seattle City Council regarding Short Term Rentals. These new rules affect those putting their properties up for rent for less than 3 months. There are three short-term rental bills.

• CB 119083 pertains to how the City taxes short-term rentals.
• CB 119082 relates to how STRs are addressed in the land-use code.
• CB 119081 relates to the Licensing Standards (What can be licensed).

Discussion of all of the ramifications of this bill is too lengthy for this newsletter, but it is important to know that if you are conducting short-term rentals in Seattle, you will need to be licensed and follow these regulations to avoid penalties or worse. NOTE Floating Properties may no longer be used for Short Term Rentals

Housing Values
Housing Values in Seattle, Bellevue, Bothell & Burien over the last year have steadily increased. The good news it that your property is worth more. The bad news is that property is more expensive to buy.  The following chart shows the median values (half the properties sold were above and half were below the median) in Seattle and cities to the east, north, and south of Seattle.  Is there a Bubble?  Hard to say. We are expecting price increases to slow down, however, the trends are still upward. With tax changes affecting home ownership, there could be a turnaround in pricing during 2018.  We welcome your thoughts!

Water-based properties (Floating Homes, Houseboats, and Waterfront Properties) are still in high demand with very limited supply. There is only so much shoreline, and Houseboats and Floating Homes have been capped at their current levels.  This means a mostly fixed commodity with increasing demand. There were 80 water properties sold in 2017 ranging in price from $120,000 to $8,850,000. Special Agents Realty had a total of 20 water property transactions (buying and selling) in 2017.  If you are considering Water Property, either buying or selling, we are definitely experienced in this area and would love to help you.

Over-Water Short Term Rentals Prohibited
IMPORTANT NOTICE: Seattle’s new short-term rental regulations prohibit short-term rentals for over-water properties.  If you own a houseboat (Floating On-Water Residence) or a Floating Home and are using it as a vacation rental, you will no longer be allowed to do this.
From CB 119082:

23.42.060 Short-term rentals

Short-term rental uses are subject to the following provisions:

A. Short-term rental uses are permitted in any structure established as a dwelling unit unless (1) the proposed use is in a dwelling unit established as a caretaker’s quarters, or (2) the proposed use is over water or otherwise prohibited by the shoreline regulations contained in Chapter 23.60A.

Registering Rental Properties In Seattle
While Short-Term Rentals are prohibited, long-term rentals (3 months or greater) are still allowed over water. If you have a rental property in Seattle, even if it is a houseboat (Floating On Water Residence), or a floating home, you must register your property and it will be inspected. For more information, please read the Rental Registration & Inspection Ordinance.

Remodeling, Renovating, Replacing, & Major Repairs
Floating On-Water Residences are subject to permitting regulations when doing Exterior Remodeling, Renovating, and Major Repairs. Floating On-Water Residences may expand up to 120 square feet, but must not increase their over-water coverage. Although expansion beyond 120 square feet is permitted, the City of Seattle is proposing strong rules for containing grey water that must be implemented with this type of expansion.

Generally, if your exterior work exceeds $6416.00 you will need to obtain a shoreline exemption permit (Fairly easy to obtain). This may include things like hull replacement, re-siding, re-fiberglassing decks, etc.

NOTE: If you are replacing your Floating On-Water Residence, you must obtain a full Shoreline Development Permit (Complex & expensive).

Some common types of projects that are typically considered exempt:

• Normal maintenance and repair of existing structures or developments, including damage by accident, fire, or natural elements
• Construction of a single-family residence and accessory structures by the owner for his/her own use, on dry land only
• Demolition of structures, not having a major impact on the shoreline character
• Any development with a value of less than $6,416.00 that does not materially interfere with normal public use of the water

For more information, please see the TIP 229.

We hope you have a fantastic 2018
We’ve enjoyed working with our fabulous clients and friends and hope that you find this newsletter useful.  If you no longer wish to continue receiving these emails, please unsubscribe below.Thank youfrom Kevin & Linda Bagley

The post Happy New Year 2018 appeared first on Special Agents Realty.

We’ve been living on Lake Union for the last 12 years in a 72 foot Paddlewheeler named The KevLin. For over 15 years, we have been helping people buy and sell property of all types, on land or on the water. Our companies, Special Agents Realty and Special Agents Houseboats provide unique information and outstanding service for those looking for that special property.

1. Waterfront Property: This is what many people think of when they think of living on the water. While it is technically not “on the water” it is adjacent to the water or “waterfront.” Surprisingly, there are very few waterfront homes on Lake Union with the exception of some condominiums located on the east side of the lake. There are also some waterfront homes in Portage Bay, an appendage of Lake Union, and along parts of the Ship Canal which connects Lake Union with Puget Sound. Currently, there are no properties of this type on the market on Lake Union, the Ship Canal or Portage Bay.
2. Floating Homes: Think Sleepless in Seattle, or if you’ve never seen the movie, think of a normal house, floating on a platform, attached to a dock. Many people think these are “houseboats” but they are not. These are floating homes, permanently attached to a dock, designed to be moved into place once and (almost) never moved again. Floating homes are typically found in condominium or cooperative associations and are subject to properyty taxes (sometimes paid in the homeowner dues). Floating homes are hard-connected to utilities like electricity, water, and sewer. Currently, there are 2 Floating Homes on the market, priced at $1.9 millon and $2.75 million.
3. Houseboats – Floating On-Water Residences: Houseboats have existed in Seattle for more than a century and are an Iconic part of the Seattle water living scene. Houseboats differ from Floating Homes in that they are typically located in recreational marinas and have quick-disconnect utilities. They are NOT required to have engines nor are they required to cruise the waters, but they can be easily moved from one marina to another (typically by towing). Houseboat buyers pay sales tax at closing and pay annual vessel registration fees, but they are not subject to property tax, nor do sellers pay excise tax. Houseboats were slated for elimination from the City of Seattle, however, Lake Union Liveaboard Association was able to get State legislation passed that protected houseboats in the State of Washington. The new term “Floating On-Water Residence” is used in the state law that protects Houseboats.
4. House Barges: House Barges are a definition created in 1990 by the City of Seattle when the first Shoreline Master Program was implemented. During this time, the City of Seattle was attempting to eliminate Houseboats and created a grandfather definition “House Barge” that allowed existing houseboats to convert to a House Barge and meet other regulations. There were approximately 77 houseboats in the City of Seattle at that time and approximately 34 eventually accepted the House Barge requirements. The remaining houseboats, put engines and navigation lights on their vessels and became navigable vessels to avoid the House Barge requirements.
5. Recreational Vessels: This is probably the most common way that people live on the water and it typically the least expensive, however, it is not for everyone. The types of recreational vessels being used as liveaboards spans the gamut. Sailboats, tugboats, trawlers, yachts and more can be found as liveaboards in Lake Union, Portage Bay and on the Ship Canal. The sacrifices made to live on the water in recreational vessels may include less space, narrow hallways, tiny kitchens, minimal storage, and more motion. But ask someone who lives on a recreational boat and more often than not, they will tell you they love it. These are the pioneers of “Tiny Homes.”

Need help finding your “Special” property?

We would love to help. Please feel free to give us a call or email us with any questions. We can set up an automated search tailored to your specific needs which will update you instantly when new properties matching your criteria come on the market. We can also provide you with a valuation of your property and guide you on how to prepare to sell your property.

On land or on the water…

Life is Better When You Own It

Linda Bagley – Designated Broker
Linda@SpecialAgents.net – (206) 419-0065
Kevin Bagley – Managing Broker
linda@specialagentsrealty.com – (206) 915-3766

The post Top 5 Ways to Enjoy Lake Union Living appeared first on Special Agents Realty.

We are VERY excited and proud to announce that Houseboats will be back on the Northwest Multiple Listing Service (NWMLS) as of July 24th, 2015. It is hard to believe that just over a year ago, we, Kevin & Linda Bagley began this endeavor on June 4th, 2014 by meeting with Jerry McDonald, Administrator of Real Estate Programs for Washington State, and Lewis Denny, Manager of Dealer Services for Washington State. The goal was to get Houseboats back on the Multiple Listing Service.

HISTORY:

For decades, Houseboats were listed and sold on the Multiple Listing Service by licensed Real Estate Brokers. In 2013, it was brought to the attention of the Multiple Listing Service that houseboats, although primarily designed as a residence, are technically vessels and in order to broker a vessel transaction, you must be licensed as a Washington State Vessel dealer.

This meant that representation for houseboats was typically limited to Vessel Dealers (aka Yacht dealers), and marketing confined to the listing broker’s websites, Craigslist ads, and flyers. At Special Agents Houseboats, we worked hard to promote houseboats and protect their values through unique and exceptional marketing efforts. We knew, however, that to assure the best representation and overall marketing, getting houseboats back on the MLS was imperative.

With the help of some great people, we were able to get House Bill 1309 crafted, submitted and passed unanimously through both houses.

We would like to extend our special thanks to:

• Jerry McDonald, Administrator of Real Estate Programs, who helped craft the wording for House Bill 1309 and who helped with guidance and direction throughout the process.
• Lewis Dennie, who assisted from the Vessel Dealer side and provided excellent suggestions for success.
• Bob Mitchell, Director of Executive Projects at Washington REALTORS who shepherded House Bill 1309 through the House and Senate and represented our position with skill and expertise.
• The Real Estate Commission for creating the task force and providing a platform for launching this effort.
• Brandon Vick, Washington State Representative, 18th District who sponsored and championed House Bill 1309
• Bill Clarke, Washington Realtors Policy Director
• Nathan Gorton, Washington Realtors Government Affairs Director
• Sam DeBord, Managing Broker Seattle Homes Group
• Justin Haag, Attorney for NWMLS who correctly integrated the new law into NWMLS policy.

The NWMLS Announcement:

Summary

As specialists in Floating On-Water Residences and Floating Homes, founders of Lake Union Liveaboard Association, and key players in the protection of Houseboats in Washington State, we are a great choice for your next purchase or sale of a houseboat, house barge, or floating home. These properties are much more complex than standard residential properties and having the best agents who have specialized in these unique properties for over 9 years is in your best interest. Go to www.SpecialAgentsHouseboats.com to see more and schedule an appointment.

Looking for land based property?

We do that too! Visit www.SpecialAgentsRealty.com

Here are some examples of the types of exciting properties you can expect to see coming on the NWMLS…

The post Houseboats Back on the MLS! appeared first on Special Agents Realty.

– $225,000 (In large Liveaboard Slip!)

Great Houseboat in over-sized liveaboard slip – ROOM FOR RUNABOUT
This cute houseboat is located in Seattle Marina with great views from the rooftop deck and living room. Enjoy Seattle skyline and Space Needle views. Watch the sea-planes, blue heron and ducks cruise by. Newly remodeled, this houseboat features charming finishes including; cabin styling, granite countertop in bath, brass porthole window and vessel sink in bath, full size gas range, built-in microwave, double sink, and lots of cabinet space in Kitchen.

Imagine your home afloat on the water in Seattle!

• 1 Bedroom—1 Bathroom
• Cabin Styling
• Cedar planked walls
• Completely remodeled—2015
• Roof top deck
• New appliances
• Lots of cabinetry
• Marine Head
• In coveted liveaboard slip
• 60’ slip—Room for runabout!
• Good closet space with built in drawers
• Slip Fees: $660 + $175 Liveaboard
• Qualifies for Floating On-Water Plaque

Click to view Virtual Tour

Watch our video!

Waterfront you can put your toes in.

The post Villa Mia – Charming Seattle Houseboat (Sold 2015 by Special Agents Houseboats!) appeared first on Special Agents Realty.

Wonderfully remodeled 40 x 14′ house barge “Big Brother” located on Eastlake at Hamlin Pier floating home community. 2 bedrooms, full bath & aprox. 1,000 SF of living space, connected to city sewer. Large living room, sunny updated kitchen with new appliances, quartz counters, soft close cabinets & pantry. Forward & aft covered decks. Rooftop deck w/lake & Space Needle view. New roof, laminate flooring. No sales tax as a registered house barge #940028. Monthly dock rental fee $732.82. Financing available!

Live the life you’ve always dreamed of in this beautiful Seattle House Barge

Waterfront you can put your toes in.

Download Flyer

CLICK HERE to request more information.

Click below to view our Video!

The post Big Brother – Seattle House Barge $399,000 (SOLD 2015 by Special Agents Houseboats!) appeared first on Special Agents Realty.

Crank up your TIVO’s and DVR’s!  Tiny Houseboat Hunters episode featuring Special Agents Houseboats will air tonight on the FYI Network!

AIR TIME: 7:00 pm PST

Channel – consult your TV provider guide
Join Special Agents Houseboats with Jason and his friend Sean as Jason looks for the perfect houseboat. This episode was shot at 3 different marinas in Seattle; Canal Marina, China Harbor Marina, and Seattle Marina. You will enjoy the tour of these 3 wonderful and uniquely Seattle Houseboats named Zingaro, Nick of Time, and Urban 5. For houseboat owners, small spaces are commonplace, but for many, the idea of living in a tiny space can be intimidating. Living on a houseboat in Seattle means compromising on space, but gaining on lifestyle, views, and community. Houseboats are a limited commodity in Seattle, with new regulations putting a tight lid on any new houseboats coming in to the city, so the opportunity to own a Seattle houseboat is becoming limited. If you want to see what houseboats are available, and to see examples of what houseboats have recently sold in the Seattle area, visit Seattle-Houseboat.com.

Special Agents Houseboats has had the privilege of participating in the filming of a number of Houseboat related TV shows, including two episodes of HGTV House(boat) Hunters, HGTV Lakefront Bargain Hunters, and FYI Tiny House(boat) Hunters.  We receive a number of inquiries every year to do this type of filming, but with time restrictions, we are not able to participate with every request.

Want to learn more about houseboats and the houseboat lifestyle? Thinking about buying a Houseboat? Take a look at our Houseboat Buying Guide. Just want to browse houseboats and get a closer look? See the Sleepless In Seattle lifestyle on a budget at Seattle-Houseboat.com.

Be sure to tune in Tonight at 7pm PST on the FYI Network. Let us know what you think of the episode.

The post Special Agents Houseboats Featured on Tiny Houseboat Hunters TONIGHT appeared first on Special Agents Realty.

Floating On Water Residences, House Barges

& Vessels With Dwelling Units

For the last 4 years, houseboat owners have been struggling to stay afloat in Seattle. Not much news has been published since last summer, so we wanted to provide an update and offer some new information. Please note that the information provided here is NOT official, but rather is representative of our understanding of the current and proposed regulations. We have previously published updates on Seattle-Houseboat.com and SpecialAgentsRealty.com.

Seattle’s Shoreline Master Plan Update is NOT Final

Seattle has been working to complete the Shoreline Master Plan (SMP) for a long time and has indicated that they expect this to be completed by March of 2015. Until that time, Seattle’s existing SMP (Adopted in 1987) remains in force. How does this relate to houseboats?

1987 SMP is in Effect

The 1987 rules do not specifically call out “houseboats.” Those rules instead refer to Vessels, having steering and propulsion, that are used as dwelling units and to Housebarges, vessels capable of navigation by being towed. The ambiguity of this rule led to numerous Notice Of Violations being issued by Seattle’s Department of Planning and Development (DPD – previously known as DCLU) primarily against houseboats. DPD began developing the drafts for the new SMP in 2007, it became apparent that Houseboats were in danger of being eliminated entirely in Seattle Waters. As a result, we (Kevin & Linda Bagley)  formed Lake Union Liveaboard Association (LULA) and began organizing to protect the houseboat community.

SB 6450 Went in Effect June 2014

Over a 5 year period, representatives of LULA participated in City Council meetings, DPD Meetings, and met with Mayors, Legislators, and Senators to try to develop a solution. In June of 2014, Senate Bill 6450 went into effect, protecting “Floating On Water Residences” (FOWR).

A floating on-water residence legally established prior to July 1, 2014, must be considered a conforming use and accommodated through reasonable shoreline master program regulations, permit conditions, or mitigation that will not effectively preclude maintenance, repair, replacement, and remodeling of existing floating on-water residences and their moorages by rendering these actions impracticable.

• Floating On Water Residences (State Definition) effective July 1, 2014
  • Other than Floating Homes
  • Designed or used primarily as a residence
  • Has detachable utilities
  • Owner/occupant held ownership interest or lease or sublease to use space in a marina since a date prior to July 1, 2014
• Floating On Water Residences (Seattle Definition) effective SMP Implementation Date
  • Affects any floating dwelling unit (houseboats, housebarge) regardless of steering or propulsion
• Vessels with Dwelling Units (Seattle Definition) placed in moorage between July 1, 2014 and SMP Implementation Date
  • affects “houseboats” with steering and propulsion
  • Owner/occupant held ownership interest or lease or sublease to use space in a marina since a date ON OR AFTER July 1, 2014 and BEFORE SMP Implementation Date
• Housebarges Vessels without steering and propulsion, capable of navigation by being towed.
  • Pre SMP Implementation Date, continue to be regulated under 1987 SMP
  • post SMP Implementation Date, may continue to be house barges, or may become FOWRs. Owner’s choice.

What is a Floating On Water Residence (FOWR)?

In June of 2014, the State of Washington adopted SB 6450 into law, creating a state definition for a Floating On Water Residence (FOWR).

“floating on-water residence” means any floating structure other than a floating home, as defined under subsection (5) of this section, that: (i) Is designed or used primarily as a residence on the water and has detachable utilities; and (ii) whose owner or primary occupant has held an ownership interest in space in a marina, or has held a lease or sublease to use space in a marina, since a date prior to July 1, 2014.

The City of Seattle has created proposed rules to regulate FOWR’s in Seattle that are expected to go in effect sometime around March of 2015.

The following update is based on communications with the Director of Compliance for DPD , Faith Lumsden;

• Based on the fact that the new law is NOT yet in effect, the current, existing law is still valid until the new law takes effect (probably around March, 2015). A “Vessel having steering and propulsion” can be brought in under the existing (circa 1990) law and would continue to be legal to be used as a live-aboard vessel. The City is calling these “Vessels With Dwelling Units” The city is proposing to offer a Plaque for these types of vessels.
• Under the new law, only those “Floating On Water Residences” (FOWR) that have been in Seattle – with a moorage agreement or ownership interest, at a marina, PRIOR to July 1, 2014, would be eligible for the City of Seattle DPD Floating On Water Residence Plaque.
• A FOWR would NOT be allowed to be brought in after the implementation of the SMP because the new law prohibits its use as a live-aboard vessel.

I know it is confusing, but there are 5 ways of living on the water in Seattle, four of which will be eligible to apply to receive a City of Seattle Plaque. For the purposes of clarification, I have created 4 Seattle Specific Definitions. These definitions apply to vessels moored in Seattle waters.  The 5th classification will NOT receive, nor be eligible for a plaque, but is allowed to be used as a liveaboard in Seattle Waters.

NOTE: If your Floating On Water Residence is NOT located within the city of Seattle, you are still a Floating On Water Residence, however, you are not eligible for a Seattle plaque, and will not be allowed in Seattle as a liveaboard vessel after the implementation of the Seattle Shoreline Master Plan (SMP) expected sometime in March, 2015.

Seattle Specific Definitions (See Chart Below):

1. Floating On Water Residence (FOWR) – A vessel (with or without propulsion) that was designed primarily as a residence and was legally moored in a marina in Seattle waters PRIOR to July 1, 2014.
2. Vessel with Dwelling Unit – Vessels that have steering and propulsion, which may be designed primarily as a residence, but are navigable, and obtained legal moorage in Seattle waters BETWEEN July 1, 2014 and the SMP Implementation Date (Estimated March of 2015).
3. House Barge – Vessels primarily designed as residences, lacking steering and propulsion, but capable of navigation by being towed.
4. Floating Home –  a single-family dwelling (NOT A VESSEL) constructed on a float that is moored, anchored, or otherwise secured in waters. Floating homes are required to be located in approved “floating home moorages”
5. Liveaboard Recreational Vessels – Vessels, designed primarily as Recreational Vessels (Excluding Houseboats) as described in the new SMP regulations (Estimated March of 2015).

Houseboats on the Multiple Listing Update

While Floating Homes and Moorage are able to be listed on the Northwest Multiple Listing Service (NWMLS), Houseboats listings were removed from the NWMLS in March of 2013. Although houseboats had been listed on the NWMLS for decades, they were removed because most houseboats are vessels and selling a vessel requires a Vessel Dealer License. Most Real Estate Brokers are not licensed Vessel Dealers. For some time, Special Agents Houseboats has been the only licensed Vessel Dealer specializing in Houseboat sales and has listed houseboats for sale on Seattle-Houseboat.com, SpecialAgentsRealty.com, and on LakeUnionLiving.com. We understand that this limits the market for the sale of a Houseboat and makes it difficult for people not familiar with our company to locate houseboats for sale.

 We have been working with the Department of Licensing to allow Floating On Water Residences to be sold by licensed Real Estate Brokers, which would then allow them to once again be listed on the NWMLS. To do this, the Real Estate and Vessel Dealer Licensing laws must be changed. The Real Estate Commission formed a task group comprised of interested stakeholders and commission members and crafted a draft of the proposed law changes. Bob Mitchell, Executive Projects Director for the Government Affairs committee of the Washington Realtors Association has taken the reigns to get this submitted to the legislature for the coming session. With little or no opposition, we expect this to be passed easily and to have bipartisan support.

Send us your questions and we will respond! (Kevin@Seattle-Houseboat.com)

Floating On Water Residences: Q&A

Q: Does my Floating On Water Residence require a plaque?
A: After the SMP Implementation, you will have a period of time to apply for and obtain your FOWR plaque. You will be required to have a plaque or be a Recreational Vessel as described in the new SMP regulations.

Q: Can I bring in a new Floating On Water Residence?
A: Until the new SMP has been implemented, Vessels, having steering and propulsion with Dwelling Units may be brought into Seattle Waters after July 1, 2014 and BEFORE the new SMP Implementation. These vessels will be categorized as Vessels with Dwelling Units. The process for applying for a Vessel with Dwelling Unit is not yet known.

Q: What value to me is the plaque?
A: The plaque provides security, assuring your FOWR can be maintained, remodeled, and replaced. FOWR’s are protected from NEW regulations which might preclude these rights.

Q: Can I sell my plaque?
A: No. You can sell your houseboat and your plaque will go with it, or you can remove your houseboat from the Seattle SMP area and replace the existing foot print with a new structure

Q: Can I expand my FOWR?
A: Yes.  Seattle FOWR’s may be expanded up to 120 square feet (with height and footprint constraints) without any new requirements. Expansion beyond 120 square feet require containment and disposal of gray water.

Q: When are the new regulations effective?
A: Although the regulations may not take effect until after July 1, 2014, your FLOWR must have been “legally established prior to July 1, 2014”

Q: Does my FLOWR need to have engines?
A: No, Engines are NOT required. This proposal by DPD has been eliminated.

Q: I heard proposals requiring Sail Area to Length Ratios, Freeboard Requirements, Symmetrical mooring cleats, fore and aft boarding stations, visibility requirements. Do these still apply?
A: No. These proposals by DPD have been eliminated.

Q: I heard I would be required to drive my vessel on a 1 mile round trip, hire a naval architect, and have my vessel certified. Does this still apply?
A: No. These proposals by DPD have been eliminated. No performance test is required.

Q: Can I repair, remodel, or replace my FLOWR?
A: Yes, with some restrictions. Repair is allowed, but there are some restrictions as to what can be done in a marina (max 25% of vessel at a time). An expansion of up to 120 sq. ft. is allowed provided it does not exceed the height restrictions. You can add Deck railings (36” max) and stairs. If expansion over the life of the vessel exceeds 120 sq. ft., gray water containment and disposal are required.

Q: Can I expand the size of my footprint?
A: No, with the single exception of a one time changes for stability as certified by a naval architect. NOTE: If you utilize the stability expansion, you cannot expand in any direction after the stability expansion.

Q: What are the height restrictions?
A: If your current height is 18 ft. or less, you cannot increase the height above 18 ft. If your current height is between 18 and 21 you cannot increase your height. If your height is 21 ft or more, you cannot create an expansion exceeding 21 ft.

Q: Does my FLOWR have to be USED as a place of residence prior to July 1, 2014
A: The regulations indicate that ”For the purpose of this chapter, a structure will be considered designed or used primarily as a residence if it contains a dwelling unit.” Per this statement, if your FLOWR contains a dwelling unit, it will meet the requirement of being USED as a place of residence.

Q: How do I register my FLOWR?
A: The exact process and fee amount has not yet been established. We anticipate that you will have to submit dimensions of your vessel, pictures, and some evidence that you were moored in Seattle waters, held a lease or ownership in a marina, were designed or used as a dwelling unit prior to July 1, 2014, and have detachable utilities.

Q: After I apply and pay my fee, will I receive something that indicates compliance?
A: Yes. After DPD verifies your FLOWR, you will receive a numbered plaque that is to be displayed on your FLOWR on the pier or landward side or side most used for access.

Q: I’m not sure if my vessel is a FLOWR. Should I submit for verification?
A: We are recommending that you submit for verification if you are unsure. Once verified, your FLOWR will then be secure and protected.

Q: If I get my FLOWR plaque, can the city make new regulations that will jeopardize my houseboat?
A: No. Once you have your plaque, you are officially verified as a “Floating On Water Residence” which is governed by Washington State Senate Bill SB-6450.

Q: Can I keep my FOWR on private property?
A: No, the regulation requires that the owner or primary occupant has held an ownership interest in space in a marina, or has held a lease or sublease to use space in a marina.

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