What started as a casual real estate investment quickly turned into an unexpected dream business for Amber and Dean Neufeld. The Oregon-based couple purchased the iconic white Craftsman home that served as Bella Swan’s house in the “Twilight” films for $360,000—never expecting the wave of fandom it would spark.
Fast forward, and that very house now earns them up to $140,000 annually just by renting it out to Twilight fans from around the world.
🌲 A Home That Sparked a Fandom Frenzy
Nestled in the town of St. Helens, Oregon, the house may look like an ordinary suburban home from the outside—but to millions of fans, it’s sacred ground. Featured in key scenes from the blockbuster franchise that defined a generation, the house became an instant attraction for Twilight devotees eager to step into Bella’s world.
Amber and Dean initially had no plans to turn the property into a tourist hotspot. But once word spread that the real Bella Swan house was available for overnight stays, bookings flooded in.
🏠 From $360K to Cult-Classic Capital
Despite not having a background in hospitality or short-term rentals, the couple leaned into the opportunity. They fully restored and styled the home to match scenes from the movies—down to Bella’s bedroom, complete with the purple bedding and vintage details fans remember.
Their efforts paid off in more ways than one. The house now operates as a fully booked vacation rental, often hosting Twilight-themed weekends, movie marathons, and even engagement photo shoots. Some fans even travel internationally just to stay there.
💸 Turning Movie Nostalgia into Real Estate Gold
The couple’s success proves the power of niche appeal and storytelling in real estate. While the purchase price was modest by today’s standards, their income has far exceeded expectations—turning a piece of movie history into a six-figure passive income stream.
Their story also highlights a broader trend: unique stays with a personal or pop-culture connection are increasingly outperforming standard rentals. Airbnb, Vrbo, and boutique platforms are seeing spikes in interest for properties that offer not just a bed, but a memory.
✨ The Twilight Effect Is Still Real
More than a decade after the first film premiered, Twilight’s fanbase continues to show fierce loyalty. Thanks to the resurgence of nostalgic content on platforms like TikTok and Instagram, the franchise remains a staple of internet culture—and Amber and Dean’s listing sits at the intersection of fandom and smart investing.
For them, it’s not just about the money. As they’ve said in interviews, seeing guests light up with excitement as they step through the same doorway as Bella Swan is part of the reward.
💡 Thinking Bigger? Here’s the Lesson:
This isn’t just a feel-good story about fans and fandom. It’s a masterclass in turning a passion-based property into a scalable business—one where the “X-factor” is authenticity. By restoring and honoring the home’s movie magic roots, the couple built something that continues to drive bookings year-round.
Their success invites a bigger question: What other iconic homes, filming locations, or nostalgic spaces could be turned into thriving niche rentals?
📌 Conclusion
What began as a simple purchase has transformed into a wildly successful income-generating property. By embracing the Twilight fandom, the Neufelds turned movie magic into real-world wealth—earning six figures a year while giving fans a place to relive the fantasy.
Now that’s a plot twist worth watching.
