Family’s 16-Month Journey to Mortgage-Free Home Nears End

UPDATE: A family’s quest for a mortgage-free home has turned into a challenging 16-month ordeal, with significant progress finally being made after numerous setbacks. Shawn Lentz, his wife, and their teenage son have been living in a cramped 23-foot trailer on his in-laws’ property in Arlington, Washington since selling their 4,000-square-foot home in April 2024.

After selling their house, the Lentz family planned to stay in the trailer temporarily while constructing a manufactured home. However, delays due to permitting issues, environmental regulations, and construction obstacles have left them still waiting. Initially, they believed they would only need to reside in the trailer for a few months, but the project has stretched well beyond that timeframe.

The family faced several hurdles, including a lengthy approval process for their building permit and the discovery of a newly regulated wetland on the property. These challenges delayed the project by an additional five months and forced them to navigate complex local regulations.

Living conditions have been tough, with the family sharing tight quarters with three English bulldogs and a territorial iguana named Rawr. The trailer, which they initially thought would be sufficient, has become a source of frustration. Cooking meals has turned into a balancing act, and space constraints have made daily life a challenge. The dining area, which doubles as a workspace, is now cluttered with gaming equipment, leaving little room for family meals.

Despite the difficulties, the Lentz family is now witnessing progress. Their manufactured home was delivered in late June, and crucial construction work, including septic and electrical systems, is underway. Over $275,000 has been invested into the project, and the family remains hopeful that the long wait will ultimately be worth it.

Shawn Lentz reflected on the journey, stating, “We’ve screamed at the Gods. We’ve shouted at each other. We’ve nearly become the Torrance family in ‘The Shining.'” He emphasized the importance of patience and the need for realistic timelines when undertaking such projects.

As the home nears completion, the Lentz family is optimistic that their dream of living mortgage-free will soon become a reality. They are determined to hold onto the vision of a simpler life, despite the emotional rollercoaster the process has entailed.

Authorities in Arlington have confirmed that once the construction is complete, the Lentz family will finally be able to move into their new home, bringing an end to their prolonged stay in the trailer. For now, they continue to adapt to their challenging living situation while eagerly anticipating the day they can finally move in.

Stay tuned for updates on their journey as they navigate the final steps toward homeownership.