Today we’d like to introduce you to Nicole Kunkel
Hi Nicole, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
One night, Dave and I were chatting about our land that is located on the lake and thought of ways that we could bring to life what others might enjoy. We discussed a tiny house and other options but landed on flipping a camper! Dave is very handy and has brought many of my ideas to life – and this proved to be no different. We officially launched The Flipping RV in September 2023 and had our first guests in May 2024. It took us 6 months to flip the camper between raising three daughters and both working full time. Because we are a camper business, we are only able to operate 6 months out of the year and we chose April 15th to October 15th. So far, we have truly enjoyed being able to allow guests to enjoy our space. We include a slide for kids, paddle boards, sleeping space for 5 – perfect for couples or families, fire pit, and more.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
For the most part, it has been a relatively smooth road. However, you always have tricky guests that you must navigate. I find myself to be the confrontational one in the business relationship – haha. That being said, Dave handles the ins and outs of the camper mechanics.
We’ve been impressed with The Flipping RV, LLC, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
We are in the business of renovating campers and making a more modern experience. Currently, we offer two rental options – a 27′ Jayco Jayflight stationarily located on Lake Zumbro (Airbnb and RVShare) and a 24′ Jayco Jayflight G2 (RVShare) that we setup within a 50-mile radius. We have yet to renovate a camper for another family or person but wouldn’t be opposed to going in that direction.
I think the thing we are most proud of is how well we have done in our first year. We have had many happy customers already asking when our calendars will open for next year – January 1st! They are impressed by all the offerings and the price of our space. We have reached Superhost status on Airbnb twice in 2024.
Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
I would say that I (Nicole) get a lot of inspiration from many different accounts on Instagram including @bbandtherv, @nailgun_nelly, and @thesourthernhost. Some of these accounts help me gather my inner creator, while others show me the type of host I want to be.
Pricing:
- $140/night weekends (Friday/Saturday)
- $120/night weekdays (Sunday-Thursday)
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.theflippingrv.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theflippingrv/
