An Airbnb that generates over $90,000 annually was created by a family who purchased an abandoned 1909 train car for just $3,000. Explore its interior.

Isaac French's father recognized the potential for greatness when he saw an abandoned train car on a neighbor's farm in Deary, Idaho.

For decades, a car built in the 1900s remained parked in the same spot, with its wooden body deteriorating, algae growing, and approximately 20 cats residing inside, as shared by French, a 27-year-old, to CNBC Make It.

The Washington Idaho & Montana Railway's train car number 306 operated from 1909 until the 1950s.

In 2020, the family bought the train car for $3,000 after several years of waiting.

""I'm glad my dad had the faith and vision to breathe life back into an old structure," French says."

The family spent a considerable amount of time searching for someone to relocate the 61-feet-long structure onto their 145-acre property.

""We selected the highest point on our property to capture these breathtaking views," French explains."

The move cost around $10,000.

The family spent $137,000 and six months renovating the structure they planned to use as an Airbnb. The renovation included building a platform, refurbishing the floors, adding a bathroom, landscaping, and furnishing the space.

The train car was restored to its original design by his parents, siblings, and French, who did most of the work themselves. They hired subcontractor friends for the HVAC and electrical work.

The train car, with its original windows, was hand-painted with French lettering on its exterior, based on an old photo discovered.

During the summer, we open the car windows to let the breeze flow through, and it's simply breathtaking. In hay season, the scent of rye grass wafts through the car.

French and his family transformed the passenger room into a sitting area, installed a kitchenette, and put in a gas potbelly stove to make the train car more comfortable.

The former mailroom of the train car was transformed into a bedroom featuring a king-sized bed, while a barn door was added to the bathroom they constructed.

"Our guests are thoroughly enchanted by this place. Upon waking up, they are greeted with breathtaking panoramic views of the countryside. This is truly an unforgettable experience," French remarks.

They added a mirrored sauna, hot tub, and fire pit outside to enhance the experience.

We wanted to capture the essence of our surroundings, which were stunning pine trees and a breathtaking view. We decided to create a unique contrast between the old and new elements.

Finding success on Airbnb

In the midst of remote locations, the train car gained immense popularity on Airbnb. It became one of the top-rated Airbnb listings in the country, as per Fast Company.

The cost of staying in the Restored 1909 Train Carriage ranges from $325 to $350 per night.

French says that what he loves most about it is the sense of history and the built-in story.

In the first year, the train car had 90% occupancy and $14,179 in earnings. Since then, earnings have increased to between $75,000 and $90,000 a year, according to documents reviewed by CNBC Make It. This year, French is projected to bring in $105,000.

In 2023, the train car was fully booked on Airbnb for 231 nights, generating a 65% profit margin. Out of the total revenue, 30 to 35% went towards cleaning costs, small maintenance and repairs, property taxes, and insurance.

The family has the option to increase the nightly rate of the train car's stay, but they choose not to because they enjoy welcoming visitors from around the world who want to experience a piece of history.

""What are the key elements needed to bring old buildings, stories, and train cars back to life and inspire others to participate in a project like this?" French asks."

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