These Airbnb owners run short-term stays out of a school bus, tree house, yurt, and a fire station. They break down 5 tips for managing out-of-the-box properties.

One of the geodesic domes that the Kernohans host short-term guests in.Courtesy of the Kernohans

• Georgia couple John and Fin Kernohan welcome guests to unique properties that brought in $6,000 last month in revenue, they say.
• Managing unusual properties creates unique challenges like fighting the elements and managing guest expectations.

In 2020, John and Fin Kernohan turned their love of tiny homes into a full-fledged portfolio of seven unique rental properties spread over 16.2 acres near Georgia's Lake Oconee.

The couple still live full-time on-site in their 300-square-foot home, which they built in 2011, and welcome visitors year-round to a variety of unusual short-stays, including two cabin-esque tiny homes, two geodesic domes, a yurt, a tiny home "firehouse," and a converted school bus.

According to the Kernohans, between 40 to 60 guests visit the campgrounds each month, where only adults are allowed. In November, the couple generated $6,000 in revenue through travelers from Airbnb and the vacation site Glamping Hub, which Insider verified through records they provided.

Competition among Airbnb hosts has increased as short-term rental supply reaches record highs. Offering a distinct travel experience with a unique abode is one way to stand out and is even boosted by Airbnb's recent changes to their homepage.

John breaks down tips for hosts interested in managing out-of-the box properties, from keeping structures stable to informing guests they don't have a traditional toilet.