If you’re looking for a way to generate extra income without taking on a major renovation or investing in a second home, a bunkie might be the answer you’ve been searching for. These small but mighty structures are more than just charming backyard cabins—they offer serious income potential when used creatively and strategically.
In this blog, we’ll explore how homeowners across Quebec and the Ottawa Valley are turning bunkies into profitable ventures. Whether you’re considering short-term rentals, long-term solutions, or niche business ideas, there’s no shortage of ways to make a bunkie work for you.
What is a Bunkie?
A bunkie is a small, detached building usually situated near a main house or cottage. Traditionally used as a guest space or sleeping quarters, bunkies have grown in popularity due to their versatility and low footprint. With sizes typically ranging from 100 to 200 square feet, bunkies are often built with full insulation, electrical wiring, and high-quality finishes—making them ideal for seasonal or even year-round use.
With West Quebec Shed Company, our handcrafted bunkies are built to handle Canadian winters, look stunning in any setting, and can be fully customized to suit your needs.
Income Idea #1: Airbnb or Short-Term Rental
This is one of the most popular income-generating uses for a bunkie. If you have a scenic property, are near a tourist destination, or just want to test the waters of hospitality, listing your bunkie on Airbnb or Vrbo can bring in a steady stream of revenue.
Why it works:
- Low overhead compared to building a full guesthouse
- Travelers love unique, cozy spaces
- You control availability and pricing
Tip: Add charming touches like local artwork, comfy linens, and outdoor seating to boost your ratings and nightly rate.
Income Idea #2: Long-Term Rental
In areas where housing is in short supply, a bunkie can be a long-term rental option for students, single professionals, or those looking for affordable living spaces. As long as zoning allows for it, this can be a reliable monthly income.
Why it works:
- Steady, predictable income
- Ideal for backyard setups in urban or suburban areas
Tip: Make sure your bunkie has essential features like electricity, heating, and internet access to attract renters.
Income Idea #3: Studio or Workspace Rental
With more people working remotely or diving into side hustles, quiet, dedicated workspaces are in demand. Rent your bunkie as an office, art studio, wellness space, or even a podcast recording room.
Why it works:
- Professional creatives often seek space away from home distractions
- Can be rented by the hour, day, or month
Tip: Outfit the space with good lighting, ergonomic seating, and Wi-Fi to make it move-in ready for your renter.
Income Idea #4: Wellness or Retreat Space
Turn your bunkie into a mini wellness retreat. Whether it’s yoga, massage therapy, reiki, or meditation sessions, you can create a calming, private atmosphere for clients right in your own backyard.
Why it works:
- More people are seeking holistic and at-home wellness services
- Bunkies offer the perfect tranquil setting
Tip: Consider adding soft lighting, natural materials, and temperature control to enhance the experience.
Income Idea #5: Pet Services or Animal Boarding
This one might surprise you, but if you love animals and have a safe yard, your bunkie can serve as a small-scale pet boarding facility. You can also use it for grooming, dog training, or even a boutique-style pet daycare.
Why it works:
- Pet care is a booming industry
- Many pet owners prefer small, home-based services over large kennels
Tip: Make sure to follow any local bylaws or licensing requirements and outfit the space with washable flooring and proper ventilation.
Local Zoning & Legal Considerations
Before turning your bunkie into an income property, it’s essential to do your homework on local zoning laws, especially in Quebec and Ontario.
Questions to ask your municipality:
- Can I legally rent out a bunkie for short- or long-term stays?
- Is a bunkie considered a “secondary dwelling unit”?
- Do I need permits or inspections?
- Are there restrictions on utilities or plumbing connections?
At West Quebec Shed Company, we recommend contacting your local municipality before starting your project. We can also guide you in the right direction depending on your location and building use.
Why Choose West Quebec Shed Company for Your Bunkie?
We build every bunkie with care, precision, and a deep understanding of our local environment. As a family-owned company based in the heart of West Quebec, we understand what it takes to build structures that can stand up to harsh winters and still look beautiful year after year.
Our bunkies are:
- Handcrafted locally by experienced builders
- Fully customizable to suit your unique needs and layout
- Delivered and installed exactly where you want it
- Built with premium, weather-resistant materials
Plus, we can advise on how to design your bunkie to meet code requirements if you’re planning to rent it.
Real Example: From Backyard Guesthouse to Income Stream
One of our clients near Wakefield transformed their bunkie into a stylish Airbnb unit. With simple furnishings, thoughtful decor, and a few weekend bookings each month, they now earn enough to cover their property taxes annually. It’s a small space, but it makes a big impact on their household income.
Final Thoughts
Bunkies are more than cute cabins—they’re an opportunity. Whether you’re looking to generate income through short-term guests, create a home-based business, or support your family with a flexible living space, a bunkie can be a practical and profitable investment.
If you’re ready to explore the possibilities, get in touch with us. At West Quebec Shed Company, we’ll help you design a bunkie that fits your vision, your land, and your goals. Reach out today to get started!
Ready to turn your bunkie dream into a reality? Contact us for a free quote. Let’s build something beautiful together.
