For centuries, lighthouses played a crucial role in guiding sailors. But these days, modern navigation technology such as GPS has rendered them mostly obsolete, and many have fallen into neglect. That’s why in recent years, the U.S. government has begun selling lighthouses—and in some cases, even giving them away for free—with the hope that others will care for the structures. This year’s “lighthouse season” began in June, and a record number were available: Six were donated to nonprofit organizations, and four went up for public auction. Since the program began in 2000, the government has found new keepers for more than 150 lighthouses. But even if someone gets a good deal on one, they’ll need plenty of funds to renovate and maintain the property. Richard Cucé, who bought a lighthouse in Maryland last year, told CNBC that he intended to spend about $1 million to fix it up. “It is truly a labor of love,” he said. “I often wonder if the whole thing is a bad idea, but then I will have a good day that makes me think it will all be worthwhile.”