Can You Live Full Time in a Vacation Home?

By Michael Ferguson

When it comes to vacation homes, many people dream of owning one. The idea of having a place to escape to whenever you want can be very alluring.

However, the question arises: can you actually live full time in a vacation home? The answer is yes, but there are some things to consider before making such a big decision.

Location
The first thing to think about is location. If you plan on living in a vacation home full time, it needs to be located somewhere that is convenient for your day-to-day life.

This means that it should be close to grocery stores, medical facilities, and other necessary amenities. It’s also important to consider the climate of the area. If the weather is extreme or unpredictable, it could make living there full time difficult.

Size
The size of the vacation home is also an important factor. If you plan on living there full time, it needs to be big enough to accommodate all of your needs.

This includes having enough bedrooms and bathrooms for any family members that will also be living there with you. It’s also important to have enough storage space for all of your belongings.

Maintenance
Another thing to consider when living in a vacation home full time is maintenance. Vacation homes often require more maintenance than regular homes due to their location and exposure to the elements. You will need to factor in the cost of upkeep and repairs when making your decision.

Community
Living in a vacation home full time can also mean being part of a different community than what you are used to. It’s important to research the area and get involved in local events and organizations so that you can feel connected and not isolated.

  • Pros:
    • The ability to live in a beautiful location year-round.
    • A potential decrease in living expenses, as vacation homes are often located in areas with a lower cost of living.
    • The opportunity to be part of a new community and meet new people.
  • Cons:
    • The cost of maintenance and repairs can be high.
    • The isolation from your previous community.
    • The potential for extreme weather conditions that could make living there difficult.

Conclusion

Living full time in a vacation home can be an exciting prospect, but it’s important to carefully consider all of the factors before making such a big decision. Location, size, maintenance, and community are all important things to think about when deciding if this lifestyle is right for you. However, if you do decide to take the plunge, you could enjoy the benefits of living in a beautiful location year-round while potentially saving money on living expenses.