Family Faces 16-Month Wait for Mortgage-Free Home in Washington

UPDATE: A family’s dream of building a mortgage-free home on their in-laws’ property in Arlington, Washington, has turned into a grueling 16-month ordeal. The Lentz family, who sold their 4,000-square-foot home in Concrete, Washington, in April 2024, is still living in a cramped 23-foot trailer while they face numerous delays.

After selling their house, Shawn Lentz and his family planned to transition to a manufactured home to relieve themselves of mortgage stress and to support his aging in-laws. However, what was expected to be a short stay in their trailer has become a long struggle. “We thought it would be a few months, but here we are, still waiting,” Lentz shared.

The family’s challenges began almost immediately after the sale. Although they purchased their three-bedroom, two-bathroom manufactured home without issues, they encountered numerous hurdles in the permitting process. From scheduling a wetland survey to testing the well for contaminants, the red tape proved frustrating.

With a budget of over $275,000, the project has seen significant setbacks. A newly discovered wetland on the property delayed their permit re-filing by five months, pushing back the timeline significantly. “We’ve faced so many delays throughout the process,” Lentz stated, expressing their frustration.

Life in the trailer has been anything but comfortable. The family shares the confined space with three English bulldogs and their iguana, Rawr. “Cooking is a challenge. We have to choose between microwaving or air-frying while balancing plates on tiny counter edges,” Lentz described. Their son’s sleeping arrangement is a “casket-sized bottom bunk,” while the kitchen nook has become cluttered with a gaming setup.

Despite the cramped quarters, the Lentz family remains hopeful. In late June, their manufactured home was delivered, and construction is now underway. The two halves of the home have been stabilized, and crucial systems like septic and electrical are being installed. “We can finally see the shape of what’s ahead,” Lentz said, hinting at the long-awaited move-in.

As they continue to navigate the challenges, Lentz acknowledges the emotional toll the delays have taken on their family. “This extended camping experience has tested our marriage more than anything else in our 12 years together,” he admitted. With the home’s completion still months away, the family holds onto the dream of a simpler life, hoping their sacrifices will ultimately lead to comfort and stability.

For anyone considering a similar venture, Lentz advises, “Prepare for additional costs beyond estimates. A timeline of one to two years is more realistic.” As the Lentz family waits for their new home, they reflect on their journey and the lessons learned along the way.

This story highlights the real struggles many face while seeking affordable housing solutions in today’s market. The Lentz family’s experience serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in building a home, underscoring the urgent need for streamlined processes and support for families pursuing similar dreams.