BYOBoat: Live in a lighthouse for $450k

Why buy a boring old vacation home when you could embark on an adventure at sea? A lighthouse for sale in the Chesapeake Bay could set you on your merry way for $450k. Here’s more from listing agent Beth Groner.

Q: What’s the story of this lighthouse? “The owner, Dave McNally, purchased this lighthouse sight unseen in an auction by the Department of the Interior. He renovated over several years, ferrying materials and workers back and forth. His upgrades included repairs and new roofing, as well as a full kitchen, a full bathroom with a shower, and other systems to make the lighthouse feel like a home. He’d visit the lighthouse on annual trips and stay aboard for days with his family and friends.

Q: How much interest have you gotten from buyers? “Hundreds of people have reached out to talk about their ideas. Most are committed to historical restorations. We also get many inquiries from nonprofit and educational groups who see the potential to turn this into a living museum. The short-term rental community has also been very interested; it would be the ultimate unique stay. It would be difficult to turn this into a short-term rental due to the uncertainty of weather and accessibility. Not insurmountable, just challenging.”

Q: What are the challenges of owning this lighthouse? “Beyond weather and watercraft access, maintaining the exterior of the lighthouse—which is subject to wind, rain, storms, pounding surf, and salt—would be your biggest challenge. It is also not a property that would be easily insurable, so protecting your investment involves being self-reliant.”

Q: What responsibilities come with running this lighthouse? “The Coast Guard has an easement of access to complete any maintenance on the light, which is solar operated. The owner is not responsible for maintenance or repairs of this aid to navigation, but is responsible for maintaining the historical aspects of the lighthouse and its accessibility for the Coast Guard.”

Q: Any memorable stories to share about this lighthouse? “Dave has a great story of being at the lighthouse alone during a storm and his boat coming untied and floating away, leaving him stranded! Luckily, a local volunteer water rescue team found his boat and helped arrange passage back to shore.”

Q: What advice would you have for any prospective buyer? “If someone is considering this project, Project Lighthouse on Facebook and the adventures of Rich Cucé and his son would be a great source of information and inspiration. This is a rare and unique opportunity for the right individual or organization. The views and experiences from the lighthouse are unimaginable to land lovers—from the deck watching ships pass, sunsets, and dolphins and birds at play. It’s profoundly beautiful, inspiring, and uniquely positioned for the ultimate ‘off-the-grid’ disconnect. The new owner won’t regret owning this lighthouse; it will be an adventure, a story for the ages of their making.”