How Steph and Ali Built a Coach House in Ottawa with OGC and Now Earn $30,000 Annually on Airbnb

When Steph and Ali first thought about adding a coach house to their Ottawa property, they weren’t sure where to start. They had heard about the potential of these secondary dwellings to generate passive income, but navigating zoning laws, construction, and financing seemed daunting. That’s when they partnered with Ottawa General Contractors (OGC)—a decision that would turn their backyard into a profitable investment, earning them $30,000 per year in Airbnb revenue.

Why Build a Coach House?

With Ottawa’s rising housing costs and high demand for short-term rentals, coach houses have become an attractive investment. These self-contained units offer a private space for tenants while allowing homeowners to monetize unused land.

For Steph and Ali, the numbers made sense:

• Upfront investment: $300,000 (including permits, design, and construction)
• Annual rental income: $30,000 from Airbnb
• Return on investment: 10% per year

Compared to traditional rental properties, this was a low-maintenance, high-yield opportunity.

‍The Build Process with OGC

‍Partnering with OGC simplified the entire process. What was their OGC review testimonial? Watch this video to see what they had to say about the process with OGC.

‍

‍

Here’s how they made it happen:

‍1. Zoning and Permits

Coach houses must comply with local zoning regulations, which OGC navigated for them. They ensured the property met the city’s minimum lot size, access requirements, and servicing capacity.

‍2. Custom Design for Airbnb Success

‍Since the unit was built specifically for short-term rentals, OGC helped design it with maximum functionality and appeal:

• Open-concept layout to feel spacious
• Large windows for natural light
• Soundproofing to ensure privacy from the main house
• High-end finishes to attract premium guests

3. Efficient Construction

‍OGC’s experience in small-lot construction helped the project stay on time and budget. The build was completed in under six months, with minimal disruption to Steph and Ali’s daily lives.

‍Generating $30,000 Per Year on Airbnb

‍Once complete, Steph and Ali furnished the unit and listed it on Airbnb. Their strategy for maximizing occupancy and revenue included:

• Competitive pricing based on market trends
• Professional photography to showcase the space
• Automated messaging & check-in for seamless guest experiences
• Seasonal adjustments to rates for peak demand

On average, they booked 20 nights per month at $125 per night, resulting in an annual income of $30,000.

‍

‍A Smart Investment with a 10% Return

‍With their $300,000 investment generating $30,000 per year, Steph and Ali are enjoying a 10% return—outperforming many traditional rental properties and stock market investments.

But beyond the numbers, they’ve also:

✅ Increased their property’s overall value
✅ Created a flexible space for guests or family use
✅ Built a long-term income stream with minimal effort

What Does The Floor Plan Look Like?

The coach house floor plan was carefully designed to maximize space efficiency while maintaining a modern, open-concept feel. Upon entering, guests are welcomed into a bright and airy living area, seamlessly connected to a fully equipped kitchen with high-end appliances and smart storage solutions. The layout includes a cozy bedroom nook designed for comfort and privacy, while the spacious bathroom features a sleek walk-in shower and premium fixtures. Large windows provide ample natural light, and built-in storage ensures the space remains uncluttered. The functional yet stylish design caters perfectly to short-term guests, making it both an inviting retreat and a lucrative rental property.

Click here to get a preview of the floor plan >>

‍Thinking About Your Own Coach House in Ottawa?

‍If you’re considering building a coach house in Ottawa, working with OGC ensures a stress-free process from design to construction to income generation. Like Steph and Ali, you could turn your backyard into a thriving investment—all while increasing your property’s value and securing long-term financial benefits.

👉 Contact OGC today to explore your coach house potential!