How Leela Rea Built a Backyard Greenhouse Instead of an ADU—and Earns $24,000 a Month Without Full-Time Work
Choosing a Different Backyard Build
In 2024, Rea and her husband bought a California home they had admired. They had previously sold their wedding-venue business and owned several properties, including their primary home in Carlsbad.
A contractor estimated that a three-bedroom, two-bath accessory dwelling unit would cost $500,000 to $600,000, including permits and construction. Rea instead drew up her own greenhouse design after finding that a company in England was beyond their budget, then asked a welder friend to help build it.
Aiming For Intimate Gatherings
Rea said her experience in the wedding industry helped her identify demand for smaller, intimate venues in Southern California. She saw an opportunity for couples seeking a modest celebration rather than a large, expensive wedding.
Some clients marry at a courthouse and then hold a reception for about 20 people in the greenhouse. Rea said people increasingly want intimate events with their closest friends and family, especially in the post-COVID era.
Rental Prices And Monthly Income
The greenhouse initially rented for $3,000 a day for events such as baby showers. Rea says the minimum price for any event is now $7,500, while photo shoots cost at least $375 an hour.
The couple averages about $24,000 a month from greenhouse rentals, with some of that revenue going toward maintenance. They also offer a full buyout of their home, where they now live full time, only when they are traveling; Rea said they need at least $30,000 for a weekend to make that worthwhile.
More Time And A New Venture
Rea said the couple first promoted the greenhouse across multiple platforms, some of which charged high commissions. They now receive enough inquiries through social media that they no longer find those platforms worthwhile.
The couple is manufacturing greenhouses in Southern California in three sizes. Rea said they have a couple of preorders and plan to put the smallest model at their former home in Carlsbad. She said rental income has helped her and her husband avoid full-time work and spend more time together as a family.
Key points
- Rea chose a greenhouse over an ADU estimated to cost $500,000 to $600,000.
- The greenhouse now has a $7,500 minimum for events and a $375 hourly minimum for photo shoots.
- Rea says greenhouse rentals average $24,000 a month, before maintenance costs.
- The couple is manufacturing three greenhouse sizes in Southern California and already has a couple of preorders.