In the past several years, Airbnb has become a popular alternative to traditional hotels and guesthouses. They are often cheaper and provide guests with extra spaces not usually available in hotels such as a kitchen. The increase in demand for Airbnb rental options means that it can be a great way to make a little extra money. Any buildings or even rooms can fairly easily be converted a space to rent out. But what if you don’t have any extra space right now but are still interested in making some money on Airbnb?
A great, affordable option is a shed. If you don’t believe us, see for yourself. Here is a link to an Airbnb rental that is a tool shed converted into a tiny home. Tons of people have converted sheds into tiny homes. It’s nothing new. In this article, we’ll describe the process for converting a storage shed into a tiny home you can rent out on Airbnb
Important Note
Before starting the process of converting a shed into an Airbnb, it is very important that you stop by your county building and codes office to see what permits and building requirements they expect. Depending on your area, this may be nothing or it may be quite a lot. Rather than waiting to do this further down road, it is best to get everything taken care of up front.
Choosing a Shed
One of your important first steps in starting Airbnb guesthouse from a shed is to pick out a shed if you don’t already have one. This means choosing the right style, size, and add-on features.
As far as shed styles go, there isn’t really one right option. Cabin sheds can be a great choice because they have porches that can be a great addition to your tiny home. Dutch barns and Classic workshop sheds can also be good options. Ultimately it is a matter of personal taste and what looks good on your property. Do a little bit of shopping around to make sure you find one that suits you.
Choosing a Shed Size
When choosing a shed size, you need to make sure you get something that is big enough to hold a kitchen and bathroom. We wouldn’t recommend getting anything smaller than a 14×20. It really depends on how much you want to include in your tiny home. If you want to add more than just the bare essentials, we would recommend a shed that is 14×28 or larger.
Choosing Add-On Options
There are a few add-on options that should definitely be included in your tiny home. One is a loft. Lofts are a great way to make some extra space for storage or sleeping. Another add-on that should be included is an electrical package. This can make your work in finishing out your shed much easier. Other add-ons that you can include are extra windows, insulated doors, and even flower boxes.
Converting Your Shed Into an Airbnb
Now comes the fun part: actually converting your shed into a tiny home. This is going to be the most time consuming and difficult part of the process. If you have absolutely no experience in carpentry, it might be worth hiring someone to help you or doing some study before starting on this part. There are lots of YouTube videos that provide lots of helpful information.
If you would like to just learn more about pre-built storage sheds in general, you can read our comprehensive guide on them.
This section will lay out the steps necessary for converting your shed into a tiny house. However, rather than describing how to do each step, we’ll link out to various resources that will walk you through each step.
1. Create floor plans.
Draw out very detailed floor plans including every room in your tiny house. Make sure you include even minor details such as an AC, heating, etc. You may want to open up an area in a wall for an AC or you might just want to put it in a window. You’ll think through every detail in advance so you don’t end up skipping a step and having to undo work.
2. Install electrical & plumbing.
This can be a fairly difficult job so it may be worth hiring a professional. But if you prefer DIY, here are a few videos to get you going.
Electrical
Plumbing
3. Install wall insulation.
- Other Links
4. Add walls framing for extra rooms.
Adding a bathroom
- Other Links
- Add walls for other rooms such as a bedroom. Similar to building bathroom walls.
5. Install drywall or plywood to interior.
Drywall
Plywood
- Other Links
6. Paint the shed interior.
This part is fairly easy so no videos. Feel free to Google search though.
7. Install cabinets and counters.
Cabinets
Counters
- Other Links
8. Add kitchen, bathroom, and other house appliances.
Toilet
Sink
- Other Links
9. Lay flooring
10. Add heating and AC
We would recommend simply adding a window AC and electric heater because it is much simpler. However, feel free to use your own methods.
11. Add furniture and interior decor.
Now is the time to really make your shed shine. Bring in furniture, decorations, and whatever makes your new Airbnb feel like a home. You can use websites like Pinterest or Home & Gardens to get inspiration.
Listing Your Shed on Airbnb
Now it’s time to get your new shed onto Airbnb. Airbnb’s website already does a great job of explaining the process. Visit this page to see how it’s done. Happy listing!