The Saga of Big Pink

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THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND

Anyone deciding to move a house keep a few things in mind in order to pi, vent a moneysaving route to home ownership from turning into an expensive boon doggle. First, it's essential to have several thousand dollars in seed capital, since the house will usually have to be paid for in advance and the mover will generally want half his or her fee "up front." If any utility lint have to be moved, that cost must also be paid in advance. In fact, according to several couples we've known who have also recycled houses, it would be reasonable to expect to pay a minimum of $10,000 to get a house from its original site to yours.

You should also be prepared to do a lot o work yourself. House moving is not for the homeowner who's afraid to wield a hammer! And, before signing any contracts for moving, excavation, plumbing, or anything else that must be hired out, ask around about the most reputable contractors and get in writing, if possible, who is liable for any damages that might occur. (That also prevents the contractor from sending you a bill that's much much higher than the estimate.) However, even with the best of help, delays can occur, so it pays to be flexible.

As I write this, snow is piled high around the outside of a bright pink house glowing against its woodsy background. Smoke curls up from the chimney. Nuthatches, chicken dees, and finches flit the short distance from the woods to the feeding stations. Inside, our family rests warm and cozy, a little smug knowing that in these days of 30-year mortgages on $70,000 houses, we have joined the ranks of homeowners in a most unconventional way!

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