We Converted A Cargo Trailer Into A Stealth Tiny House
/I was lounging on my couch, scrolling through Facebook Marketplace – a daily ritual for me due to the abundance of great deals. The variety of items people sell on there is truly astonishing; I once stumbled upon a listing for a casket, which left me questioning the sanity of buying such things on Facebook. But that's a tale for another blog post.
this tiny tow has everything that you need to be comfortable while you are traveling.
Now, let's get back to the story of the tiny house. The listing caught my eye when I was living in Atlanta, Georgia, right at the beginning of the pandemic. Uncertainty loomed, and while many around me were stressed, I found myself contemplating the need for an escape and some adventurous solitude.
Refining my search, I stumbled upon a remarkable cargo trailer. Its previous owner had used it as a toy hauler for transporting motorcycles to the North Georgia mountains for weekend getaways. However, I envisioned something different – transforming it into a mini-tiny house with all the comforts of a regular home.
I WAS LOOKING HAPPY WHEN I PICKED UP THE TINY HOUSE.
The cost of the trailer was a mere $5,750, and much of the interior work had already been done. I made a few adjustments – removing a tiny bed, a cabinet, adding a new fridge, and decorating it to feel like a cozy home on wheels.
Fast forward to 2023, and my partner and I relocated to Texas to clean up my great-grandparents' land for a homestead. The trailer sat in the field for months until we had the idea to turn it into a rental for Airbnb and Hipcamp.
my partner austyn and i taking a quick snapshot on my great-grandparent’s land
After completing the renovations, we received our first booking within days, followed by a steady stream of reservations. It became apparent that we had stumbled upon something special – a popular, charming tiny home in the woods with a Japanese theme, reflecting our fascination with Japanese culture. In less than a year, we anticipate recouping our investment and then some, with 8-12 bookings per month, even though we've just begun advertising.
our listing featured on airbnb.com
Looking ahead to spring, we plan to enhance the trailer by adding a mini A/C, and we're considering installing solar panels on the roof to harness the Texas summer rays.
We documented the entire decorating process from start to finish in a video.
For those considering going off-grid, building a homestead, or exploring the country on a budget, opting for a cargo trailer might be the way to go.
How Can You Do The Same Thing We Did?
Scour Online Marketplaces:
Begin your quest by diligently searching through online platforms like Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, and other classified ad websites. These platforms often host a variety of cargo trailers, and with patience and regular checks, you might stumble upon an affordable gem. You should also expand your search to other neighboring states that you are willing to travel to.
Explore Local Auctions and Dealerships:
Attend local auctions or visit dealerships specializing in trailers. Sometimes, these events offer used trailers at competitive prices. Engage with sellers to understand the trailer's history and condition, ensuring you make an informed purchase.
Network within the Community:
Tap into your local community or online forums dedicated to trailer enthusiasts and tiny home conversions. Networking can provide valuable insights, and potential leads, or even connect you with someone looking to sell their cargo trailer.
Customization for Rental Income:
Consider the potential rental market by customizing your cargo trailer into a unique and appealing tiny home. Personalize the interior, add amenities, and choose a theme that sets it apart. Platforms like Airbnb and Hipcamp provide avenues to showcase and profit from your transformed space. You can copy our exact Airbnb listing here and get an idea of how you can make money.
Strategic Location Matters:
Identify a strategic location for your tiny home-on-wheels. Whether it's a picturesque spot in the woods or a trendy urban area, the location significantly impacts your rental income. Research the demand for unique accommodations in different areas to maximize your earning potential.
Allow me to share a little-known secret that few others might disclose: taking your tiny house to major events could potentially yield thousands of dollars in just a week. Imagine catering to crowds at musical festivals, golfing events, or other mainstream gatherings. To ensure the safety of your investment, consider placing a GPS device in your trailer and parking it in a secure RV lot or at a State Park. This strategic approach not only opens up new revenue streams but also adds a dynamic dimension to your tiny house venture.
Engage in Marketing and Social Media:
Leverage the power of social media and online marketing to promote your cargo trailer rental. Create engaging content, share before-and-after transformations, and utilize platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube to reach potential renters. Positive reviews and captivating visuals can boost your bookings.
Enhance Sustainability and Appeal:
Increase the marketability of your cargo trailer by incorporating sustainable features. Consider adding solar panels for eco-friendly energy, a small garden, or other unique elements that align with current trends. These enhancements not only attract environmentally conscious renters but also add value to your rental proposition.
We invite you to comment below and share what you love most about this unique build.