Ever wonder if you could turn a small idea into a big business? That’s exactly what Seth and Tori Bolt did. In 2021, they bought a piece of land for $237,000. Just four years later, their short-term rental business —Bolt Farm Treehouse—is worth over $32 million. They didn’t start with a big team or a fancy budget. What they had was a dream, a strong work ethic, and a creative way to stand out in the world of luxury treehouse rentals. Their story is proof that you don’t need millions to get started in short-term rental investment—just the right plan and the courage to stick with it.
Seth and Tori wanted to create a space where people could unplug, relax, and enjoy nature. They started with a single luxury treehouse on a quiet property in Tennessee. That one treehouse became the beginning of something much bigger. Today, Bolt Farm Treehouse is a resort filled with unique places to stay—treehouses, domes, and wellness-focused cabins. Guests aren’t just booking a room; they’re booking an experience. With an average nightly rate of $700 and a 93% occupancy rate, their business is thriving.
One key move that helped their business grow was skipping platforms like Airbnb. Instead, they focused on building their own website and booking system. This allowed them to keep more profits and build stronger relationships with guests. This kind of direct booking model is a smart vacation rental marketing strategy. It gives hosts full control and helps build brand loyalty. For Bolt Farm, it meant creating something people search for by name—not just another listing in a long list of rentals.