IN BRIEF
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In an inspiring tale of creativity and hard work, a family has successfully transformed a 1909 abandoned train car into a unique Airbnb, generating over $90,000 annually. Located in the scenic landscapes of Idaho, this remarkable restoration project has not only preserved history but also created a charming getaway for travelers. With its blend of rustic charm and modern amenities, guests can now enjoy an unforgettable stay while taking in the captivating surroundings. Let’s take a closer look at this extraordinary transformation!
In a remarkable tale of restoration and creativity, a family has taken a decaying train car from 1909 and transformed it into a spectacular Airbnb that generates over $90,000 annually. This endeavor represents not only a business success but also a heartfelt commitment to preserving a piece of history. Let’s delve into this inspiring journey and explore the stunningly renovated interiors of this unique accommodation.
The Discovery of a Historical Gem
The adventure began when Isaac French’s father spotted an abandoned train car on a neighbor’s farm in Deary, Idaho. Built in the early 1900s, the train car had sat untouched for decades, succumbing to decay and the elements, with rotting wood and an array of cats making it their home. Recognizing its potential, the French family purchased the dilapidated train car for just $3,000 in 2020, setting the wheels in motion for an incredible transformation.
Moving the Train Car to Paradise
Once the train car was acquired, the challenge transitioned to moving the 61-foot-long structure to their expansive 145-acre property. Isaac describes their land as a “beautiful, secluded place in nature.” The move was not without obstacles, costing around $10,000 and requiring extensive planning. Eventually, they chose a high point on their property ensuring that guests would enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Restoration: A Family Affair
Transformation of the train car was no small endeavor. Over a span of six months, the family invested $137,000 into renovations. Their vision for the train car was to create an Airbnb that honored the structure’s history. They handled most of the work themselves—building a platform, refurbishing floors, adding a bathroom, and organizing the landscaping. Friend contractors helped with essential heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC), and electrical work.
Innovative Living Space
The family creatively adapted the train’s interior to cater to modern comforts. They converted the passenger area into a cozy sitting space, included a kitchenette, and added a gas potbelly stove for warmth. The original mailroom transformed into a charming bedroom furnished with a king-sized bed, ensuring that guests enjoy comfort surrounded by nostalgia.
A Unique Airbnb Experience
As for the experience? Guests are treated to stunning views when they awaken in the morning. The train car’s renovation includes original windows, allowing summer breezes and the scent of nearby rye grass to permeate the space. French passionately notes, “It’s just beautiful,” highlighting the immersive experience visitors encounter.Fast Company describes the ambiance as deeply connected to history and beauty.
Additional Amenities for Relaxation
To further enhance their Airbnb offering, the family added modern touches like a mirrored sauna, hot tub, and a firepit right outside the train car. These amenities blend seamlessly with nature, allowing guests to relish in the juxtaposition of the antique train car and contemporary comforts.
Success on Airbnb
Despite its remote location, the Airbnb listing quickly became a sensation. French reported that in the first year alone, the train car achieved a 90% occupancy rate with earnings of $14,179. Subsequent years saw earnings soar between $75,000 and $90,000 annually. This year, projections estimate the Airbnb will bring in an impressive $105,000.
A Thoughtful Approach to Pricing
Even though the French family knows they could charge more, they cherish the opportunity to host and connect with visitors from all walks of life. They believe there’s something in the stories and history held within old structures, stating, “How many old buildings and stories and old train cars are just sitting out there waiting to be discovered and loved?”
The incredible journey of transforming an abandoned train car into a unique Airbnb is proof that dedication and vision can breathe new life into historic structures, creating memorable experiences for guests and a prosperous business for the family.
Comparison of Transformation Projects
| Feature | 1909 Train Car Transformation |
| Initial Cost | Purchased for $3,000 |
| Renovation Period | 6 months |
| Renovation Cost | $137,000 |
| Occupancy Rate | 90% in the first year |
| Annual Earnings | Projected at $105,000 in 2023 |
| Additional Features | Mirrored sauna, hot tub, and firepit |
| Unique Selling Point | Sense of history and unique experience |
| Target Market | Tourists seeking unique stays |
Family Transforms a 1909 Abandoned Train Car into a Unique Airbnb
Have you ever thought about living in a piece of history? A family recently turned an abandoned train car from 1909 into a stunning Airbnb, attracting visitors with its rustic charm and unique features. Not only did they bring this old structure back to life, but they also managed to generate over $90,000 annually, making it a profitable venture!
Discovering the Hidden Gem
The story began when Isaac French’s father spotted a dilapidated train car on a neighbor’s farm. Built in the early 1900s, it had been neglected for decades, housing wildlife and showing signs of decay. With a vision and some faith, they decided to purchase the car for just $3,000. This was the start of an incredible journey of restoration.
Moving the Train Car
After acquiring the train car, the family faced the challenge of moving it to their beautiful 145-acre property. It was no small feat, but they found the perfect spot at the highest point on their land to capture breathtaking views. The relocation process cost around $10,000, but the result was worth every penny.
The Restoration Process
Once in place, a six-month renovation project began, costing the family roughly $137,000. They transformed the once-abandoned train car into a cozy retreat, including building a platform, updating the floors, adding a bathroom, and landscaping the surroundings. Most of the renovation work was handled by Isaac and his family members, while they got help from friends for specific tasks like HVAC and electrical work.
Creating an Inviting Space
The train car was ingeniously converted into a living space, complete with a chic sitting area, kitchenette, and even a gas potbelly stove for those chilly nights. Guests now wake up in a beautifully designed bedroom featuring a king-sized bed with panoramic views of the countryside. French described it as a “really epic place to sleep,” and it’s easy to see why!
A Memorable Experience for Guests
To elevate the guest experience, the family added modern touches like a mirrored sauna, hot tub, and fire pit outside. The integration of new amenities with the rustic charm of the train car creates a unique juxtaposition that visitors find captivating. With a setting like this surrounded by nature, it’s no wonder that the train car has become a hit on Airbnb!
Success on Airbnb
Despite its remote location, the train car’s charm and history have made it one of the most successful Airbnb listings in the country, boasting a staggering 90% occupancy rate in its first year. Over the years, this venture has brought in earnings between $75,000 and $90,000 annually, with projected earnings of $105,000 for this year alone. With each booking, guests walk into a piece of history, and the family enjoys sharing their passion for preservation.
Preserving History for Everyone
The French family acknowledges their success, but they remain humble, choosing not to raise their nightly rates despite the train car’s popularity. Instead, they relish the opportunity to host visitors eager to experience a slice of history in a unique setting. “How many old buildings and old stories… are just sitting out there waiting to be discovered and loved?” French asks, revealing the fundamental joy behind their project.
From a dilapidated structure to a thriving Airbnb, this family’s dedication to breathing new life into a historical train car is truly an inspiring story of restoration and passion.
- Location: Deary, Idaho
- Initial Investment: $3,000 to purchase
- Renovation Costs: $137,000 for upgrades
- Time Spent: 6 months on renovation
- Capacity: Features a king-sized bed
- Amenities: Includes a kitchenette and bathroom
- Outdoor Features: Mirrored sauna, hot tub, firepit
- Occupancy Rate: 90% in the first year
- Annual Earnings: $75,000 to $90,000 projected
- Unique Selling Point: Panoramic views of the countryside
Transforming Abandonment into Opportunity
In Deary, Idaho, a family took a leap of faith when they purchased a decrepit train car from the early 1900s, originally intended for transportation. With a vision and commitment to restoration, they turned it into a successful Airbnb, generating more than $90,000 annually. This unique venture mixes history with modern comforts, making it a popular choice for travelers seeking an exceptional experience.
The Purchase: A Hidden Gem
The journey began when Isaac French’s father spotted the abandoned train car on a neighbor’s property. Built in 1909, the car had stood still for decades, deteriorating while home to an assortment of wildlife. Its original charm was trapped beneath layers of neglect, but the family saw the potential that others overlooked. Buying the train car for just $3,000 was the first step toward a remarkable transformation.
Moving and Renovating the Train Car
Moving the 61-foot-long train car was no small feat. It required the family to invest around $10,000 to relocate it to their 145-acre land, a picturesque location selected for its breathtaking views of nature. After the car was settled, the real work began. The family spent $137,000 over six months revamping the entire structure to ensure it was comfortable for guests. They maintained the original design while adding modern amenities that catered to travelers’ desires.
Restoration Efforts
The extensive renovations included constructing a platform, refurbishing floors, adding a bathroom, and landscaping the surrounding area. The family was hands-on throughout the process, tackling most of the work themselves. They brought in subcontractor friends for specialized tasks like HVAC and electrical work, ensuring quality while keeping costs manageable. A particularly thoughtful touch was Isaac hand-painting the exterior lettering based on an old photograph, preserving the train car’s nostalgic appeal.
Creating a Unique Guest Experience
The interior of the train car was meticulously designed to provide a cozy atmosphere. The passenger room became a relaxing sitting area, complemented by a kitchenette and a charming gas potbelly stove. The once-ordinary mailroom was transformed into a cozy king-sized bedroom, while a barn door led to a fully functional bathroom. Guests are greeted with stunning panoramic views, making their overnight stay a memorable experience.
Enhancements for Leisure
To elevate the experience further, the family added outdoor features like a mirrored sauna, hot tub, and a firepit, seamlessly blending modern luxury with the surrounding nature. This thoughtful approach creates a unique relaxation spot for visitors who want to unwind while soaking in the amazing forest views and the tranquility of nature.
Success on Airbnb
The restored train car quickly established itself as one of the most popular listings on Airbnb, achieving a remarkable 90% occupancy rate within its first year. Now, it’s projected to generate around $105,000 in the current year, attracting guests from far and wide. Priced between $325 and $350 a night, the train car provides an unforgettable stay that balances history and comfort.
Building Community and Connection
While the family has the option to increase prices due to high demand, maintaining affordable rates is a priority. They cherish the opportunity to host visitors eager to immerse themselves in a slice of history. As Isaac French aptly states, “there’s a sense of history and a story that’s already built in.” This project serves as a reminder of the beauty in revitalizing old structures and connecting with those who appreciate the tales they tell.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of place is the transformed train car? The train car is a unique Airbnb that offers guests a chance to stay in a beautifully restored 1909 train carriage, complete with a sitting area, kitchenette, and a king-sized bed.
How much does it cost to stay in the train car? The nightly rate ranges between $325 and $350 for a stay in the restored 1909 train carriage.
How long did it take to renovate the train car? It took the family approximately six months to renovate and restore the train car to its current state.
What amenities are included with the stay? Guests have access to modern amenities such as a mirrored sauna, hot tub, and firepit right outside the train car, enhancing their overall experience.
How much money does the train car generate annually? The train car is projected to earn over $100,000 in 2024, with past earnings reaching between $75,000 and $90,000 a year.
Is the train car located in a scenic area? Yes, the train car is situated on a beautiful 145-acre property in a secluded natural setting offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
Did the family do the renovations themselves? Most of the renovation work was done by the family members themselves, restoring the train car to mimic its original design, while hiring subcontractors for specific tasks like HVAC and electrical work.
What makes this Airbnb special compared to others? This Airbnb has a unique history and character, as it is a restored train car that offers guests a distinctive experience of staying in a piece of history amidst the natural beauty of Idaho.