I Exchanged My $2 Million Property Portfolio for a Campground—It Hasn't Yielded Profits, Yet the Happiness It Brings is Immeasurable

Having spent my entire life in Florida, turning 50 and experiencing a divorce prompted a desire for change that some might call a midlife crisis.

For two decades, I navigated the real estate scene in Florida, accumulating a collection of three duplexes and two smaller homes. Yet the rising insurance costs and upkeep demands over the years led me to reconsider: 'Perhaps it's time to liquidate.'

In 2021, I decided to sell my real estate holdings for approximately $2 million. Intending to utilize these proceeds, I aimed to purchase a scenic campground or a property with quaint cabins somewhere in mountainous regions like Tennessee or the Carolinas.

While browsing Zillow, I stumbled upon a property in Hayesville, North Carolina. Spanning 11.5 acres, it was priced at $290,000. The offer included five tiny cabins, a larger residential structure, a pavilion, and 20 slots for RVs.

Though the cabins seemed nearly dilapidated, a real estate colleague who inspected it with me cautioned against the purchase, labeling it as unworthy of investment and recommending demolition.

Despite these warnings, I trusted my instincts and in November 2021, I acquired the property, relocating shortly thereafter.

Pursuing My Vision of a Tiny Home Retreat

With aspirations to convert the property into a unique vacation destination, I envisioned it as a tiny-home resort.

The remaining funds from my portfolio sale were wholly invested into rejuvenating the Hayesville site.

Dormant for nearly 15 years, the site required substantial updates, including new sewer systems, gravel paths, as well as new plumbing and electrical work. I revamped the five initial cabins by installing new devices, furnishing, and decorating.

Additionally, I crafted a personal living space in a Florida-themed camper while introducing two mobile tiny homes to the property—one a double-decker bus from England and the other a small house on a trailer—bringing the total rentable units to seven.

Crafting a Fairytale-like Atmosphere

Desiring a distinctive charm for the site, I opted for a fairytale theme over typical rustic motifs featuring bears.

The decorations were carefully researched to avoid copyright issues. Lewis Carroll's 'Alice in Wonderland' lies within the public domain, permitting the inclusion of its themes like mushrooms, rabbits, and regal imagery.

At the property's entrance, two cabins boast 'Alice in Wonderland' themes. One, called Alice's White Bunny Cottage, showcases pink and blue hues with gardens illuminated by solar lights adorned with whimsical figures.

In addition, a cabin themed after popular wizardry works was suitably renamed 'The Caretaker's Cabin,' alongside 'The Midnight Bus,' evoking imagery from the same magical series.

The Snow White Cabin is a mobile accommodation with décor echoing fairy tales and two candy-themed cabins mirror gingerbread fantasies with roofs seemingly drizzled with icing.

Welcoming a Diverse Range of Guests

Officially receiving guests from March 2023, I frequently offer promotional rates, with current pricing at $99 per night.

Our clientele is varied—grandparents with grandchildren, traditional family units, college groups, commemorations like anniversaries, and fans of popular media.

While business experiences fluctuations, especially during the colder seasons or when schools resume, it typically rebounds in milder seasons.

Though discouraged by the economic downturn and natural disturbances like hurricanes, we've seen booking improvement for the spring season.

Maintaining Hope Amid Financial Challenges

Profitability remains elusive despite my substantial financial commitments; energy expenses average at $1,700 monthly, though the natural spring provides free water. Continuous enhancements demand investments like a $10,000 road refurbishment.

Remaining funds often fund further property upgrades, like establishing animal enclosures or developing a reconstructed fairy garden, enhancing appeal.

I occasionally question my steps, yet the fulfillment derived from creating cherished visitor experiences affirms my decision.

Having transitioned from beach living, I'm enthralled by my new mountain life, which opens unique opportunities compared to traditional financial investments.