Why I Chose to Turn My Momâs House Into a Short-Term Rental
When my mom passed away, there was a deep acheânot just in my heart, but in the quiet spaces of her home. Every corner held a memory, every room a story. This house wasnât just where she lived. It was where she loved.
My mom had a gift for making people feel welcome. Her door was always openâfiguratively and literally. Family, friends, neighbors, even the occasional stranger-turned-friend knew theyâd find comfort, laughter, and in her earlier days something delicious coming out of the kitchen. She loved to entertain. It was her love language.
Holidays were her Olympics, and the 4th of July was her gold medal event. From the decorations to the food, no one celebrated quite like Mom. She didnât just host partiesâshe created memories. Everyone knew they had a place at her table, and in her heart.
So when it came time to decide what to do with her home, I knew I didnât want it to sit empty. I didnât want it to become just a building. I wanted it to breathe againâto hold laughter and stories and life, just like it always did when she was here.
Turning it into a short-term rental felt like the perfect way to keep her spirit alive. Now, other families can come here to reconnect, celebrate, or just rest. They can sit on the porch she loved, cook in the kitchen where she loved on her family, and maybe even create traditions of their own.
In a way, this house will always be hers. But now, itâs also a gift she continues to giveâoffering comfort, joy, and a place to belong.
Thatâs what she wouldâve wanted.