The Cash-and-Carry House

Though the tight economy is making it difficult for Americans to buy or build homes, many have discovered that with a little sweat equity they can get a house for 40 percent to 60 percent less than they would pay for new construction. By bringing in a house from another location — often one slated for demolition — a prospective homeowner is able to pay a bargain price. The dwelling itself typically costs next to nothing and may even be free; most of the money is spent on actually moving the structure, or on the land if it is not already owned. Sources for finding used homes slated for demolition include aggregator lots; structural movers’ Web sites; large builders; and state highway departments, flood control boards, or other agencies that routinely clear land for development, safety, or preservation purposes. In exchange for giving away the homes on the cheap, they do not have to be inconvenienced with pulling demolition permits. The practice not only helps maintain the dreams of homeownership, but also reduces the amount of waste put into landfills and saves older architecture for those who actually appreciate it. | Read More