How Much is the Cheapest House in Skyrim? The Definitive Guide

The burning question on every Dragonborn’s mind, fresh from escaping Helgen and eager to settle down, is often: “Where can I find a roof over my head without emptying my coin purse?” The short answer? It depends on what you mean by “cheapest.” The absolutely free option is Severin Manor in Raven Rock, acquired by completing the “Served Cold” questline in the Dragonborn DLC. However, if you’re talking about purchasing a home with gold, the title goes to Breezehome in Whiterun, which will set you back a cool 5,000 gold.

Let’s delve into these options and other affordable alternatives to help you find the perfect starter home in the vast and wondrous world of Skyrim.

Understanding “Cheap”: Free vs. Purchased

When considering the cheapest house, it’s important to distinguish between obtaining a house for free through quests or other means, versus purchasing one outright. Both have their advantages and disadvantages.

Severin Manor: The Free Dragonborn Abode

• Location: Raven Rock, Solstheim (Requires Dragonborn DLC)
• Cost: Free (Upon completion of “Served Cold” quest)
• Pros:
  • Completely free acquisition.
  • Decent size, offering ample space for storage and crafting.
  • Located in Raven Rock, offering a unique setting outside of mainland Skyrim.
• Cons:
  • Requires the Dragonborn DLC.
  • The “Served Cold” questline can be lengthy and involve combat.
  • Raven Rock is a somewhat remote location, less convenient for travelling to main quest locations.

Breezehome: The Whiterun Starter Pack

• Location: Whiterun
• Cost: 5,000 gold (reduced to 2,500 gold if player is a Breton)
• Prerequisites: Complete the “Bleak Falls Barrow” quest and assist the citizens of Whiterun (usually by completing five minor quests).
• Pros:
  • Relatively inexpensive.
  • Centrally located in Whiterun, one of Skyrim’s most important and accessible cities.
  • Early availability, allowing you to obtain it relatively quickly after starting the game.
• Cons:
  • Smallest purchasable house in the game.
  • Requires completing quests and earning the Jarl’s favor.
  • Additional furnishings cost extra.

Beyond the Basics: Other Affordable Housing Options

While Severin Manor and Breezehome are the cheapest in terms of initial investment, other alternatives can become available, some even technically free, depending on your actions in the game:

• Companion Quarters (Jorrvaskr, Whiterun): While not technically a “house,” joining the Companions grants you access to a bed and storage within their headquarters in Whiterun. A simple route to a rent-free place to sleep.
• Marriage: Marrying certain NPCs can grant you access to their homes or offer other benefits. Some players even pursue this specifically for a free place to live. An example of this is Ysolda, who, after completing her quest, can be married and offers a free home in Whiterun.
• Hearthfire Homes: The Hearthfire DLC gives you the possibility of building a house. It is not free, as you have to buy the plot of land first, but it allows you to create and customize your home as you like.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Home

The “cheapest” house isn’t always the best. Consider these factors when making your decision:

• Location: How important is proximity to cities, quest givers, or specific resources?
• Storage: Do you need a lot of space for hoarding loot?
• Crafting Facilities: Do you require a forge, alchemy lab, or enchanting table?
• Companions/Family: Do you plan on adopting children or having a spouse live with you?
• DLC Requirements: Do you own the necessary DLC (Dragonborn, Hearthfire)?

FAQs: Your Skyrim Housing Questions Answered

1. Can I get Breezehome for free?

There isn’t a direct method to get Breezehome entirely for free. You need to purchase it from Proventus Avenicci, the steward of Whiterun. However, certain exploits or mods may exist that bypass the payment requirement.

2. What quests do I need to do to get Breezehome?

You must complete the “Bleak Falls Barrow” quest for Jarl Balgruuf, and you’ll need to assist citizens of Whiterun by completing a few miscellaneous quests. Usually, helping five people will satisfy this requirement.

3. How do I start the “Served Cold” quest for Severin Manor?

To start the “Served Cold” quest, you must have installed the Dragonborn DLC and traveled to Raven Rock on the island of Solstheim. The quest will automatically begin when you arrive.

4. Is Severin Manor a good house?

Severin Manor is a solid free option. It’s reasonably sized with plenty of storage and crafting space. Its location in Raven Rock makes it suitable for players focusing on Dragonborn DLC content.

5. Can I hire a steward for Severin Manor?

No, you cannot hire a steward for Severin Manor. Stewards are exclusive to the houses built through the Hearthfire DLC.

6. What are the Hearthfire houses, and how much do they cost?

The Hearthfire DLC allows you to build three homes: Lakeview Manor (near Falkreath), Windstad Manor (near Morthal), and Heljarchen Hall (near Dawnstar). Each plot of land costs 5,000 gold.

7. Are Hearthfire houses worth it?

Yes, for those looking for customization and control over their living space, the Hearthfire houses are definitely worth it. They allow you to build everything from crafting stations to gardens and even adopt children.

8. Can I move my spouse and children into any house?

Yes, as long as the house has a bed for you, your spouse, and sufficient beds/storage for your children (if you have the Hearthfire DLC and have adopted).

9. What is the most expensive house in Skyrim?

Proudspire Manor in Solitude is the most expensive house in the game, costing 25,000 gold.

10. Where can I find building materials for Hearthfire homes?

You can purchase building materials from certain merchants (e.g., general goods stores, blacksmiths) or mine them yourself from quarries near your homestead. Your steward can also provide you with resources, but they will cost you.

11. Can I be attacked at my Hearthfire home?

Yes, your Hearthfire home can be attacked by bandits, giants, wolves, and other creatures. Having a follower or a spouse as a housecarl can help defend against these attacks.

12. Is there a limit to how many homes I can own?

There is no limit to how many homes you can own in Skyrim.

13. What is the best house for crafting in Skyrim?

Lakeview Manor is one of the best crafting houses, as it allows for an apiary where honeycombs will be created and harvestable. The plot also offers all other crafting stations you need, giving you the most complete crafting experience.

14. How does marriage impact housing in Skyrim?

Marrying an NPC allows you to have them move into any home you own. They can cook meals, provide a small income (if they’re employed), and even serve as a shopkeeper if you have a store in a Hearthfire home. Some spouses even have their own homes that you can move into!

15. Are chests in player-owned homes safe for storage?

Generally, yes. Chests in player-owned homes are considered safe for storage. However, it’s always wise to make regular saves, just in case. Containers in purchased houses are generally safe, containers in dungeons, and most other locations will reset after a time period that depends on whether the location has been marked as “cleared.” Items in the world like on a shelf are generally safe except in locations tied to specific quests that can reset the area at the end of the quest.

Making Your Choice

Choosing the cheapest house in Skyrim is a matter of personal preference and gameplay style. Breezehome provides a central location for new adventures to take place, while Severin Manor offers a unique, free home with less accessibility. Consider your priorities, explore your options, and choose the home that best suits your Dragonborn!

And as you explore the vast world of Skyrim, don’t forget the educational aspect of gaming! Learn more about how games can enhance learning at the Games Learning Society website: GamesLearningSociety.org.