Listing a tiny home built without city permits on AirBnb

[Santosh Bobbili]

Hi All,

I have few long term rental properties. Would like to step in to short term world. Newbie here!!

I am looking to buy a potential short term rental property in 3 acres lot (lake facing). This property consists of main cabin (permits in place) and a tiny home which is built without city permits. So the tiny home do not have electricity or water. Currently, water is being shared from the well on the main cabin. Electricity is managed through solar.

Is it possible to list the tiny home on AirBnb which is built without permits? Current owner claims that the tiny home is being operated successfully as short term rentals, but he is hesitant to provide income sheets on tiny home. 

Any feedback on this is appreciated.

[Michael Baum]

Hey @Santosh Bobbili, so let's back up a minute.

Tell me about the tiny home. Is it on a foundation? How many sqft?

If it is under a certain number of sqft, it might not need a permit. I have a large garden shed that is 120sqft and no permit required. I could build up to 200sqft without a permit in my city.

If it is on a trailer, it is not a permitted unit in the first place.

EDIT - The fact they won't share the data on the units it a warning sign.