Rick Neuhoff, a 65-year-old Portland, Oregon, resident, has transformed his indoor pool into a full-time rental business after losing his marketing firm during the COVID-19 pandemic. He now earns up to $15,000 per month renting the pool through the app Swimply, charging $75 per hour for weekday rentals and a discounted $60 per hour on weekdays.
From Marketing to Pool Rentals
Before the pandemic, Neuhoff worked in marketing for law firms. When courts closed, his business declined, leaving him unemployed. He briefly drove for DoorDash before discovering Swimply. The company left a promotional bag at his door after identifying his indoor pool through public records. His wife, who uses the pool for diabetes-related exercise, agreed to rent it out.
Rapid Success
Within two days of listing, Neuhoff earned more than he did in a week with DoorDash. His income grew from a few hundred dollars weekly to over $1,000 per week, eventually stabilizing at $75 per hour. His top months bring in $12,000–$15,000, though slower weeks occur. He attributes the success to Portland’s lack of public indoor pools and Swimply’s marketing efforts.
Challenges and Adaptations
Neuhoff notes that weekdays are slower, prompting the weekday discount. He also emphasizes the importance of maintaining the pool’s cleanliness and safety for renters. The business has become his primary income source, replacing his previous career.
Swimply’s Role
Swimply, a platform for renting private pools, targets homeowners with pools in areas lacking public options. Neuhoff credits the app for connecting him with renters and handling bookings, payments, and reviews. The company’s outreach, including the doorstep bag, played a key role in his decision to start renting.
Future Outlook
Neuhoff plans to continue renting the pool, adjusting prices and availability based on demand. He sees the business as a sustainable alternative to traditional employment, especially for homeowners with underutilized assets.