For years, Will Sutherland has successfully hosted a skoolie on Airbnb, generating a reliable stream of passive income. However, a transformative moment occurred when he explored his four-acre property for the first time, and a compelling idea struck him.
As he roamed the land, Will noticed two trees positioned over a rock ledge, sparking the vision of an ideal spot for constructing a treehouse.
It took six and a half months for Will to turn this dream into a reality.
Upon sharing his plan with his wife, Sabrina Hartley, to build an Airbnb treehouse, her response was supportive, with a practical condition—“As long as you build another bathroom for guests, I’m all for it.”
Surprisingly, their skoolie on Airbnb lacked bathroom facilities, leading guests to use theirs.
After completing the treehouse, Will also constructed a bathhouse with a shower and toilet, ensuring a comfortable experience for their guests.
Will described the intensive process of bringing his dream to life, mentioning that he personally transported every component, including wood, floor, roof trusses, and a large quad beam. Additionally, he sourced cedar logs and used his own sawmill to mill the cedar for siding.
Acknowledging that the labor wasn’t solely his, Will credited Sabrina for her contributions, particularly in details like floor finishing and board trimming. She stood by his side daily after her work as an arboretum specialist at the Virginia State Arboretum.
The interior of Will’s treehouse features a loft bed suitable for a family, a bunk bed for kids, and a queen-size bed for adults. The front porch, measuring 12×5 feet, offers a picturesque sunset view, perfect for couples seeking a romantic atmosphere.
Equipped with a five-gallon water tank and a hotplate, the treehouse accommodates guests for various weather conditions, featuring an electric heater and air conditioning unit.
A front staircase serves as the entrance, complemented by an emergency fire exit ladder at the back.
Will’s treehouse project achieved considerable success, earning $30,000 in its first year on Airbnb. Rental rates fluctuate between $160 and $250 per night, depending on the season, and the treehouse enjoys significant online popularity, with bookings stretching out for months.
The combined revenue from the treehouse and skoolie on Airbnb has reached a point where, as reported by Business Insider, Will can consider leaving his job without financial strain. Emphasizing the newfound freedom from financial stress, Will expressed fulfillment in witnessing guests create cherished memories in their unique accommodations.