Move a House to the Land You Have

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Moving the house you want to the property you have can be a relatively inexpensive way to get the best of both worlds.
Moving the house you want to the property you have can be a relatively inexpensive way to get the best of both worlds.
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Our relocated house sits on its foundation as though it were built there.
Our relocated house sits on its foundation as though it were built there.

My husband and I had always dreamed of having a small farm, but we couldn’t afford one that was close enough to town that we could commute to work. Seven years ago, we found a 24-acre farm that was affordable, but the house had almost no value. We thought we could fix it up, so we took the plunge and bought it. We quickly realized the house couldn’t be repaired. We looked into options such as rebuilding or a prefab house, but we didn’t want another mortgage.

Then we heard of a company that moves houses that are going to be demolished. The houses were inexpensive, but we had to go on a waiting list. One year later, a three-bedroom ranch house became available. It was structurally sound, close enough to move onto our property, and cost only $29,000.

Now we finally have our farm and a nice house, which I feel great about having recycled. People often comment that they’ve always dreamed of doing this, and they’re impressed that we really did it. It’s the best investment we’ve ever made.

Ellen Krikie
Burlington, Wisconsin

To find house-moving companies, go to the International Association of Structural Moverswebsite. We would like to hear more reports from those of you who have saved money by moving houses or barns. Send your report to Letters@MotherEarthNews.com. — MOTHER EARTH NEWS

  • Published on Aug 13, 2012
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