“I turned a $200k fixer-upper into a $400k Airbnb”

Curious what it takes to turn a dilapidated old house into a popular party venue? Andy Saintilus learned the ropes after purchasing a three-bedroom, two-bath fixer-upper in Miami, FL, for $202,500. He then spent $150,000 over 10 months renovating it into an Airbnb listing, which now earns $423 per night and has raked in a total of $400,000 over the past four years. Here’s his story, plus before-and-after pics that prove just how far a fixer-upper can go with a little elbow grease and creativity.

How’d you get started? “I spent 16 years in sales, but once I saw colleagues getting laid off, this made me realize how dependent I was on a traditional nine-to-five job. Motivated by the need for financial security and independence, I pivoted into real estate investing. I started by acquiring rental properties, then expanded to short-term rentals.”

What were some of the biggest challenges? “There were many moments in my journey when quitting would have been easy. For example, tenants damaged my properties after I had invested a lot of money in them. I also bought my first short-term rental just before the pandemic hit.”

How did you turn things around? “I didn’t have much experience, but I did know how to create a fun and unique experience. So, I designed the property to reflect my idea of a great time. I finished renovations in 2021, right around the time travel restrictions were lifted. That timing worked in my favor, and the property ended up being one of my most profitable investments.”

Any advice for others who want to become an Airbnb host? “I recommend working with a mentor. That’s how I got my start, and it’s why I now mentor others who have successfully launched their first Airbnbs. There are multiple ways to fund your first property—some investors use their 401(k), others rely on personal savings. You can also partner with a co-host, but it’s important to understand the difference: A mentor guides you through selecting a property, renovations, and creating an experience, while a co-host primarily helps manage the listing once it’s live.”

What tips do you have for picking a property with potential? “Location matters, but the guest experience is what truly sets you apart. In Florida, for example, a pool is a major advantage since the weather is warm year-round. Beyond that, it’s all about designing a space where people can relax and enjoy themselves. The great thing is that we all have different definitions of fun, and setting up your Airbnb allows you to bring your vision to life while attracting like-minded guests.”

Check out more before-and-after photos of Andy’s investment below.