A family in the United States has transformed a vintage train car into a highly successful Airbnb rental, generating significant annual revenue. The train car, originally built in the early 1900s, once traversed the Washington Idaho & Montana Railway from 1909 until the 1950s. Purchased by the French family for a modest $3,000, this piece of history has now been reimagined as a unique, secluded getaway with panoramic views of the countryside.
The French family embarked on their ambitious project by securing a $150,000 loan to purchase and renovate the 61-foot-long train car. After moving it onto their sprawling 145-acre property, they spent six months meticulously restoring it with the intent of turning it into an Airbnb. Their efforts paid off handsomely when, within the first week of listing, the train car was booked for several months in advance.
In its inaugural year, the train car achieved an impressive 90% occupancy rate, generating $14,179 in revenue. Since then, its success has only grown, with annual revenue rising to between $75,000 and $110,000. In 2024 alone, the train car is set to be booked for 140 nights, bringing in $110,172.
Isaac French, one of the family members involved in the project, encourages others to look for unique opportunities in their surroundings.
"There are a lot of opportunities right under people that they don't even realize because they've always been there and are out of the box." – Isaac French
The family has managed to maintain a profit margin of about 65%, even though 30 to 35% of their total revenue goes toward cleaning costs, ongoing maintenance and repairs, property taxes, and insurance. The financial success has also allowed them to recently pay off the loan they took out to fund the renovation.
Beyond financial gain, the French family finds fulfillment in preserving a piece of history and sharing it with others. Webb French expressed the joy they receive from guests who appreciate their efforts.
"Our best experience in hosting has been the thanks that almost every other guest sends to us for taking care of this piece of history," – Webb French
Isaac French further elaborated on their motivation and the growing demand for unique travel experiences.
"It's hard to overestimate how hungry the general public is for story-driven, one-of-a-kind stays, and restoration projects are one of the best ways to get here," – Isaac French
He added that hospitality is all about passion for hosting and creating memorable experiences.
"Even if you don't have a background in restoration or hospitality, if you have a passion to host other people, to delight them, to surprise them, then you can create one of these because that's what hospitality is all about." – Isaac French
The family takes reservations both online and through Airbnb but prefers direct bookings to foster stronger relationships with their guests.
"With Airbnb, it feels more like a transaction, whereas [the direct booking] allows for more of a relationship that we can build." – Isaac French
This direct approach aligns with their belief in offering experiences rich in storytelling.
"I believe that travelers today are seeking experiences and you want to have a story. The more rich a story you can tell through a stay, through a property, the better the experience will be," – Isaac French
The family feels passionate about their venture and its ability to excite and inspire others.
"We just felt like this is the right thing to do. This is what excites us and we think it's going to excite other people too," – Isaac French