Family’s 16-Month Struggle for Mortgage-Free Home Nears End

UPDATE: A family’s arduous 16-month journey to build a mortgage-free home is finally reaching its conclusion as construction progresses on their new residence in Arlington, Washington. Shawn Lentz and his family have faced numerous setbacks, but recent developments suggest that they may soon leave their cramped trailer behind.

In April 2024, Lentz sold their expansive 4,000-square-foot home in Concrete, Washington, with plans to build a modest detached accessory dwelling unit (DADU) on his in-laws’ 5-acre property. The family, which includes their teenage son, three English bulldogs, and an iguana named Rawr, temporarily relocated to a 23-foot trailer, expecting to stay for just a few months.

However, delays began almost immediately after the sale. The manufactured home, purchased within the county’s 1,200-square-foot DADU limit, was only the first hurdle. Lentz faced challenges securing necessary permits, conducting wetland surveys, and testing the nearby well for contaminants.

With construction plagued by slow progress, a new wetland discovery added five months to the timeline, forcing the family to navigate a complicated regulatory landscape. “We felt like we got a lot of mixed messages about what needed to be done and in what order,” Lentz said, reflecting on the overwhelming nature of the process.

Living conditions in the trailer have become increasingly difficult. The family has had to adapt to tight quarters, with their son’s sleeping space resembling a coffin and cooking options limited to microwaving, air-frying, or using a crockpot. “It’s like living in a tin can,” Lentz described, highlighting the cramped space and chaotic environment shared with their pets.

Despite these challenges, progress is finally being made. The family’s new home was delivered in late June, and critical work on the septic, electrical systems, and interior is now underway. “Over $275,000 later, we can finally see the shape of what’s ahead,” Lentz noted, expressing both relief and anticipation.

As they await completion, the family has learned to navigate not just construction delays but also the strain of close quarters. “This extended camping experience has tested our marriage more than anything else in our 12 years together,” he admitted.

While the finish line is in sight, Lentz advises others considering similar projects to prepare for unforeseen challenges and costs. “If we had to do it again, we’d give ourselves a timeline of a year or two,” he said, emphasizing the importance of realistic expectations.

With hope on the horizon, the Lentz family looks forward to moving into their new home and embracing a simpler life, free from the burden of a mortgage. As construction progresses, they remain optimistic that their patience will soon pay off, allowing them to reclaim their dream of homeownership.

This story continues to resonate with many facing similar housing challenges, and Lentz’s journey highlights the emotional and logistical hurdles of building a home. Stay tuned for updates on their progress as they inch closer to moving day.