Renovated 1915 Eastlake Floating Home Starts at $650K

If the age wasn't included in the listing, you might never guess that this renovated floating house in Fairview was built 101 years ago. Welcome to one of the houses that helped establish Seattle's floating home culture.

In 1915 the floating houses weren't very large, evidently. This one looks like a tiny Craftsman with 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, and 865 square feet. From the outside, it is trim, simple, and classic. Much of the deck is covered, creating more living space and providing easier access to the water. There's enough room for a small container garden, maybe some kayak storage, and a spot for patio furniture for outdoor dining. The cleat and line leading to a tarp suggest a boat and moorage.

That back deck is handy because this house has a peaked roof. Something about pragmatism, 1915, and wanted to shed Seattle's rain. You lose the roof top deck but that extra height means more volume inside. A few skylights and the interior seems to grow. While the rest of the interior is nicely decorated and laid out, the bathroom may be the most notable room. They obviously emphasized it with a nice mix of fixtures, cut glass doors, and wainscoting surrounding a swooping claw foot tub.

The original builder would be amazed at the price, $650,000 (plus $530 per month), but in this market in such a prime location, it will probably be a fit for someone.

One note: take care with the candles in the bathroom. Lining up a set of fire sources under a painted wood windowsill may look romantic but check it out and think it through.

· 2331 Fairview Ave E [Estately]