I really live the idea of living on a houseboat. What do I need to know?

Ok, so right now I'm living in the Edmonton Area of Alberta Canada, but I like the idea of when I turn 18, to buy a houseboat and dock it somewhere in British Columbia. but, obviously, I need to do my research.

1. Where are some places where I could actually have a houseboat docked and live on it for an extended period of time?
---1.a) are there websites I could go to and check this out?
---1.b) out of places you know of, what would be best weather wise?

2. I've never lived in British Columbia before, what kind of laws are there involving houseboat living? like insurance?

3. what kind of maintenance would I need to consider?

4. I will have about $7,000.00 in the bank, on top of anything else I may accumulate. While I know that houseboats cost more than that, would it be possible to get a loan from a bank and pay that back? Or would it be better to go in with someone else and buy full out?

5. what other things do I need to look into, and where can I do my research. I have been on a houseboat before and really enjoyed it, but it was only for a short period of time.

I really want to look into this, I don't want something extravagant, just small and nice, for me to live on for a few years. I love the water and hiking and camping, and think it would be a great experience before I move into a normal house and become a foster parent.