A few simple cabins on your own land

Couples and families on weekend trips, hikers, paddlers, anglers, snowmobilers and cross-country skiers who want a roof without bringing a tent.

A nightly rate per cabin, with busiest demand in summer and on long weekends. Add-ons like firewood, linen hire and late checkout bring in a little extra. Winter bookings are possible if the cabin is heated and the access road is cleared.

• Basic building or handyman skills (or a budget to hire them)
• Friendly hosting and quick replies to guests
• Keeping cabins clean and well maintained
• Simple online marketing and photos

• Zoning, building permits and short-term rental licensing, which vary by municipality and province
• Septic, drinking water and fire safety requirements, check with your local health unit and fire authority
• Commercial liability insurance, since home or farm policies may not cover paying guests
• GST/HST registration and any provincial or local accommodation taxes
• Seasonality and weather, plan for slow months and winter access

Estimates are typically around $40,000 to $180,000, depending on how many cabins you build or place, how basic or finished they are, and whether guests share an outhouse or bathhouse or you add a basic bathroom.

Estimates suggest monthly revenue of typically around $800 to $4,000, depending on the number of cabins, your location and how often they are booked. Seasonality and weather matter, so plan for slow months and winter access.

Check zoning, building permits and short-term rental licensing with your municipality and province. Also check septic, drinking water and fire safety with your local health unit and fire authority, plus commercial liability insurance, GST/HST registration and any accommodation taxes.