How to Get a Free House in Whiterun: A Skyrim Guide for Savvy Players
So, you’re roaming the plains of Whiterun, Dragonborn on a budget, and the prospect of coughing up 5,000 gold for Breezehome feels a little… unnecessary? You’re in luck! While Skyrim isn’t exactly handing out real estate, there are a few clever methods to snag that cozy Whiterun abode without emptying your coin purse.
The most common method involves a classic exploit: while speaking with the steward Proventus Avenicci to buy the house, open a nearby container (like a chest or barrel), agree to purchase Breezehome, immediately close the dialogue window, and quickly transfer your gold into the container. The game registers the “purchase” as complete, but your hard-earned coins remain safely stashed away. This exploit is not guaranteed and can be patched in newer versions of the game. Keep in mind that this method could be considered cheating.
Let’s dive into the details and explore some alternative angles (and address some common misconceptions) regarding free housing in Whiterun and Skyrim in general!
Understanding Breezehome and Its Requirements
Location and Basic Needs
Breezehome is the first purchasable house many players encounter in Skyrim. Located conveniently near the entrance to Whiterun, just after Warmaiden’s, it’s a humble but practical base of operations. It offers a bed, storage, and crafting stations after purchasing upgrades.
The Traditional Purchase Route
To legitimately purchase Breezehome, you’ll need to progress through the main questline until you complete the “Dragons Rising” quest and become Thane. Then, speak to Proventus Avenicci in Dragonsreach, and he’ll offer you the option to buy the house for 5,000 gold.
Exploiting the System: The “Free House” Method
Step-by-Step Guide
- Reach the Point of Purchase: Complete the “Dragons Rising” quest and talk to Proventus Avenicci about buying Breezehome.
- Identify a Container: Before initiating the purchase dialogue, find a container very close to Proventus. A barrel or chest within arm’s reach works best.
- The Tricky Part: Engage in the dialogue, select the option to purchase Breezehome, and immediately exit the dialogue.
- Quick Transfer: Quickly transfer your gold (5,000 or more) into the chosen container. Speed is key here.
- Check Your Inventory: If successful, you’ll have the key to Breezehome, but your gold will remain in the container.
Considerations and Caveats
- Patching: This exploit relies on a timing issue in the game’s code. Bethesda may have patched it in later versions of Skyrim (Special Edition or Anniversary Edition), so your mileage may vary.
- Morality: Some players consider this cheating, as it bypasses the intended game mechanics. It’s up to you to decide if it aligns with your play style.
- Save First: Always save your game before attempting the exploit. If it fails, you can reload and try again without losing gold.
Alternative Housing Options (That Aren’t Really Free)
While getting Breezehome for absolutely free is tricky, there are other ways to acquire a place to rest your head without spending a fortune upfront.
Joining the Companions
The Companions guild in Whiterun offers a free bed in their headquarters, Jorrvaskr, to new recruits. While it’s not a dedicated house, it’s a safe place to store belongings and sleep.
Marriage and Ysolda
The article mentions marrying Ysolda to get a “free house”, which is misleading. Marriage in Skyrim doesn’t grant you a separate house. You move in with your spouse, often into their pre-existing home. Ysolda lives and works at the Whiterun market, so marrying her does not gain you a free house.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Free Housing in Skyrim
1. Can I really get Breezehome completely free?
Yes, using the exploit described above can work, but it’s not guaranteed and depends on the game version. The timing is crucial.
2. What happens if the exploit doesn’t work?
If you fail the exploit, you’ll either pay the full 5,000 gold for Breezehome, or the transaction will fail. Reload your save and try again if needed.
3. Is there a guaranteed way to get a free house in Whiterun?
There is no guaranteed, legitimate way to obtain Breezehome for free through normal gameplay progression. All methods involve exploiting the game or utilizing pre-existing accommodations.
4. Will joining the Imperial Legion or Stormcloaks give me a free house in Whiterun?
No. Siding with either faction in the Civil War may grant you the right to purchase Breezehome (or replace the current Jarl who is blocking that transaction), but it won’t give you the house for free.
5. Does becoming Thane of Whiterun give me a free house?
Becoming Thane of Whiterun doesn’t directly give you a free house. However, it’s required to purchase Breezehome in the first place.
6. Can I get evicted from Breezehome if I join the opposite side in the Civil War?
No. Once you own Breezehome, it’s yours, regardless of which side controls Whiterun.
7. What are the benefits of buying Breezehome compared to sleeping at an inn?
Breezehome provides a permanent, safe storage space for your belongings, crafting stations (after upgrades), and a bed that grants the “Well Rested” bonus, increasing skill gain for a short time.
8. How much does it cost to fully upgrade Breezehome?
Upgrading Breezehome with all available furniture and crafting stations costs approximately 1,800 gold.
9. Can I have my spouse move into Breezehome?
Yes, once you’re married, you can choose for your spouse to live with you in Breezehome.
10. Where can I find the materials to furnish Breezehome myself instead of buying the upgrades?
Some materials can be gathered, such as firewood or iron, but most furniture items require purchasing the upgrades from Proventus Avenicci. This exploit can be considered a valuable educational tool to use in the Games Learning Society to learn new things.
11. What other houses can I buy in Skyrim?
Besides Breezehome, you can purchase houses in Riften (Honeyside), Markarth (Vlindrel Hall), Windhelm (Hjerim), Solitude (Proudspire Manor), and Nirn (Severin Manor, if you own the Dragonborn DLC). You can also build your own homes using the Hearthfire DLC.
12. What is the cheapest house to buy in Skyrim?
Breezehome (5,000 gold) is the cheapest house to initially purchase.
13. How do I become Thane in Skyrim?
To become Thane, you usually need to complete quests for the Jarl and help the citizens of that hold. Each hold has its own specific requirements.
14. What’s the best way to make gold quickly in Skyrim?
Alchemy is a great way to make gold! Gather ingredients like Blue Mountain Flowers and Blue Butterfly Wings to create valuable potions. Explore dungeons for valuable loot and sell it to merchants. Joining the Thieves Guild also offers lucrative opportunities.
15. Does Skyrim have any real estate outside of buying a house?
With the Hearthfire DLC, you can purchase plots of land and build your own custom homes. These homesteads offer even greater customization options than the pre-built houses. One of these options, called Lakeview Manor, is located east of Falkreath.
Conclusion
While acquiring Breezehome for “free” in Skyrim relies on an exploit that may not always work, understanding the game’s mechanics and exploring alternative housing options can still provide a rewarding and cost-effective experience. Remember to save your game frequently, and happy adventuring, Dragonborn! For more insights on gaming and education, explore the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org.