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7 Unconventional Property Types That Can Generate Income for Investors

Brian Lee BurkeBrian Lee Burke
May 20, 2025 5 min read
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7 Unconventional Property Types That Can Generate Income for Investors

7 Unconventional Property Types That Can Generate Income for Investors

Diversity is essential if you want to make the most out of investing in real estate. Most people put their money into residential homes and apartments. While traditional rental properties can make you money, there are many more opportunities to get a more substantial return on your real estate investments if you choose the right properties.

In today's competitive real estate world, it's time to get creative when diversifying your portfolio. Investing in unconventional and niche property types might sound risky, but the return on your investment can be huge. Here are seven distinct property types that can generate serious income for you.

1. Industrial Warehouses

There are many ways to make money when you invest in warehouses. These large industrial spaces make excellent storage and distribution facilities for retail companies with a lot of inventory. They're also marketable to shipping companies that need a place to store packages before delivering each parcel to the recipient.

You can even convert your warehouse into a cold storage facility to serve food and beverage companies. Renting out a warehouse benefits you because the companies you lease it to will likely be long-term tenants, so you're guaranteed passive income for years.

2. A Cabin in the Woods

An off-the-grid cabin in a rural yet scenic area is a unique take on the typical vacation home. Find a fixer-upper in a forest or by the lake and upgrade it to make it more stylish, luxurious, and romantic, and you've got yourself a hot new vacation rental that any nature lover would book. When you're sick of the hustle and bustle of the city, you could also find reprieve by staying in this quiet, serene vacation home yourself.

3. Mixed-Use Buildings

If you're still more comfortable renting out to residential tenants but want to try something new, consider investing in a mixed-use building. These properties are small buildings that combine both residential and commercial units.

For example, in a three-storey building, you might rent out a couple of units to retail shops at the bottom of the property, and homes to three to four tenants upstairs. This is a great way to diversify your rental income streams while managing just one property, especially if you live in a highly urban area.

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4. Equestrian Farms

If you have a soft spot for animals, you might have a grand time investing in an equestrian farm. These farms are specifically designed to breed and train horses. They often have all the features to care for these lovely creatures, from stables to paddocks to keep them safe at home.

Aside from simply enjoying the acres of pastureland and the company of graceful horses in your new property, there are plenty of ways to make money from your investment. You can offer horse training services or riding lessons for those in the area. Building a luxurious estate within the property could even list it as a lavish, high-end retreat for those who love the countryside. Choose an equestrian-friendly location to make sure your horses are healthy and happy. We recommend looking for farms for sale in Ocala FL, known as the "Horse Capital of the World".

5. Agricultural Farms

If you want to dabble in agriculture in your next real estate investment, consider purchasing a traditional farm to grow crops, raise livestock, and sell both for a profit. If you don't want to handle the property yourself, lease it to local farmers familiar with sustainable agricultural practices in the region.

6. Vineyards

There's nothing more impressive than being able to say that you own your vast, picturesque vineyard. If you love grapes and wine, this is a terrific option. The easiest way to earn revenue is to sell the grapes you harvest and the bottles of wine you age, creating your wine label while you're at it. You can also rent out the vineyard for a couple of days for events like wine tastings, regional tours, or weddings.

7. Events Halls

If you love planning events, a huge banquet hall or ballroom would be a wise real estate investment. You can rent this property to anyone holding a big event, from weddings to extravagant birthday parties to corporate functions. Offer full-service packages that include catering and event styling to make even more money for each booking.

Endnote

Expanding your real estate portfolio with a few wildcard properties is an excellent opportunity to get creative with your investments and multiply your income streams. Whether you go for a serene horse farm, a vast vineyard, or an industrial warehouse to serve your area's largest corporate clients, there are many properties to explore and make money from.

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If you’re planning a move from Colorado to Ocala and need a reliable real estate agent in your new location, Kenna Real Estate Group is here to help. Thanks to our extensive network of trusted professionals across the country, there's a good chance we can connect you with an agent who will provide the same exceptional service you’ve come to expect from us. Contact Kenna Real Estate Group today, and we'll ensure you're in good hands as you transition to your new home.

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WRITTEN BY
Brian Lee Burke
Brian Lee Burke
AUTHOR, E-PRO®, REALTOR® BROKER

Brian Lee Burke is the founder and team leader of Kenna Real Estate Group, a real estate team at Keller Williams DTC. A licensed REALTOR® since 2002, Brian helps Colorado buyers and sellers navigate residential real estate, new construction, pricing, and negotiation. He is also the author of The Real Estate Playbook and Mastering Real Estate: Your Guide to Becoming a Top Agent.

View Brian Lee Burke’s full profile.