Cabin rental
The cabin dream became possible with rental: Now rental income covers all expenses
When Ronny Weum and his family decided to make their cabin dream a reality, they had a clear plan: The cabin would be a gathering place for the family, but also designed for rental to help cover the costs. With two girls, aged 9 and 12, the family wanted a place where they could create memories together. The solution was a cabin from Fjellstø at Rytterspranget in Gautefall.
Why Gautefall?
For the Weum family, travel time was a key factor. They wanted a destination that was within reach from Sandefjord, so weekend trips wouldn’t be too time-consuming. The choice fell on Gautefall, which not only is a popular winter destination but also proved to be just as attractive in the summer.
– We knew Gautefall was great in the winter, but we’ve been surprised by how much the area has to offer year-round, says Ronny. – With Treungen and Nissedal right nearby, there are endless opportunities for activities.
We knew Gautefall was great in the winter, but we’ve been surprised by how much the area has to offer year-round.
Rental as a financing solution
From day one, it was clear that the cabin would be built with rental in mind. It was designed to accommodate 12 people, with multiple zones for relaxation and amenities like a hot tub to increase its attractiveness.
– Rental is a win-win solution. It allows us to manage the cabin in a way that doesn’t burden our finances too much, while others get to enjoy it as well. I like the sharing economy and see it as a smart way to maximize the resources we have, he says.
He emphasizes that rental has made it possible for the family to realize a more expensive cabin than they would otherwise have been able to afford. Today, rental income covers all ongoing expenses, including the loan, and the cabin generates an annual income of around 200,000 NOK.
Positive experiences with rental
Many are skeptical about renting out their cabin, but for Ronny, it has been a hassle-free experience.
– I had some questions at the start about how to best organize things, especially when it came to insurance. But there have been minimal challenges. The key is good information, clear agreements, and open communication with tenants, he says.
To ensure a smooth rental process, he recommends using a professional rental platform, having good photos, and providing an informative ad text. He also emphasizes the importance of being responsive – quick communication with potential tenants increases the chances of filling up the calendar.
Good demand year-round
Although Gautefall is known as a winter destination, Ronny has found that there is strong demand for cabin rentals throughout the year.
– We thought winter would be the best period, but the interest is steady year-round. The area has fantastic nature, hunting and fishing opportunities, and is perfect for hiking. Additionally, Dyreparken Zoo in Kristiansand is only two hours away, making it attractive for families with children, he explains.
Pricing varies somewhat, with higher prices during school holidays and festive periods, but overall, demand has been steady. Many of the tenants return year after year – some have already been there three times.
Ronny is very satisfied with the support he received from Simen Gjelstad and Fjellstø.
Ronny's best tips for rental:
For those considering financing their cabin through rental, Ronny has some clear advice:
Have clear and written agreements to avoid misunderstandings.
Provide tenants with good information about the cabin and the area.
Use a professional rental platform with high-quality photos and detailed ad text.
Be quick to respond to inquiries.
Think about what is attractive to tenants – extra amenities like a hot tub can be a valuable investment.
A handy checklist to make it easier to succeed with rental.
If the worst happens, it's smart to have emergency numbers easily accessible.
Sharing economy offers more opportunities
For Ronny, it’s not just about the financial aspect, but also about utilizing resources better.
– In Norway, we have over 500,000 cabins, and I believe it makes sense to share the ones we already have. Whether it’s by renting them out or sharing ownership with others, more people can have the opportunity to experience cabin life, he concludes.
For the Weum family, renting out their cabin has made the dream possible – while also giving many others the chance to create beautiful memories at Rytterspranget in Gautefall.
