A rare floating home in Mastic Beach, New York, has been listed for $449,000, representing the only legally sanctioned floating residence on Long Island. The two-bedroom, one-bathroom property at 714 Riviera Drive offers a unique waterfront living experience directly on Narrow Bay.
According to listing agent Eric Boorum of Douglas Elliman, the property's status as a floating home is protected by a special permit. This permit stems from a town code that bans new floating homes but provides an exception for structures that existed before the rule's implementation. The seller possesses documentation confirming the property's qualification for this exemption. Boorum emphasized that this specific exemption cannot be replicated for other properties due to changes in town code and waterfront revitalization plans.
The home includes amenities such as a full kitchen, central air conditioning, propane heat, and gas cooking. Recent upgrades within the past three years include custom windows with electronically controlled shades. The property also comes with a .18-acre waterfront parcel that features approximately 60 feet of bulkhead, a private dock, a driveway, storage space, and a deck suitable for outdoor entertaining. An additional balcony off the kitchen provides views of the bay. The annual property taxes for the home are $665.
The current owner spent two decades working with town and state Department of Environmental Conservation officials to legalize the structure. The town of Brookhaven's code makes an exception for "preexisting uses," allowing a new buyer to maintain the floating lifestyle. However, the town will not issue similar permits in the future, ensuring this remains a singular property.
Development plans are underway in Mastic Beach, with Brookhaven's Downtown Revitalization Project preparing to break ground approximately half a mile from the floating home. A $150 million bridge connecting to Smith Point Beach is also scheduled for construction as part of a broader effort to redevelop the waterfront area.