HOUSEBOAT MAKER BUILDS MODULAR HOMES

As if the traditional modular housing industry didn't have enough competition from the new Architect designed prefabs and people that want to turn shipping containers into houses, now the house boat industry is jumping on board.

Kentucky, the heart of house boat building of in the east, has seen a dramatic drop in both sales and production of these recreational second homes.  Where there were over 1,000 people working to build house boats, the number has dropped below 200 with some factories permanently closing their doors.

But with the help of a $1,000,000 grant, these same companies are going after the lucrative affordable modular housing market.  You heard me...lucrative!  "There's just all kinds of opportunities," said Bruce Chesnut, a partner in Stardust Cruisers.

Rendering of affordable house boat, land boat

Since they are pushing for affordable rather than the luxury side of the business, maybe they have a shot at success but if companies that produce both manufactured and modular homes are having a tough time keeping their heads above water (Palm Harbor, Champion Homes), what chance do companies with no housing experience have?

Now if they could have kitchens like this in their homes, maybe I would look into buying one.