Welcome to Wheelsy!
Wheelsy is a revolutionary startup based out of the Philadelphia area. We’re here to change the way people think about living and traveling, by offering affordable van rentals that allow you to live on the road and explore the world – all while saving money.
How It Works
For Van Owners
If you have a van sitting unused, you can sell it through seller financing—meaning the renter “buys” the van and makes monthly payments, which also makes them responsible for insurance. This allows owners to turn their vans into long-term, cash-flowing assets rather than just renting them out short-term. Additionally, if they can't make payments, you can repossess the van and keep the payments already made.
For Renters
Instead of paying thousands in rent every month, you can live in and drive a van for a fraction of that cost. For those open to a more mobile lifestyle, this is a practical and affordable alternative to traditional housing.
Common Questions Answered
Where would they park?
There are plenty of options, depending on the renter's needs. Many people doing van life park overnight at Walmart, Cracker Barrel, or other 24-hour businesses that allow it. Others stay at campground, or stealth park in cities. It’s about being flexible, just like any other vehicle-based living situation.
Additionally, sites like iOverlander help locate stealth camping spots.
Is this just another van rental service?
No. Unlike Turo or Outdoorsy, which focus on short-term rentals, Wheelsy provides an affordable alternative to high rent. It’s designed for people looking for a long-term, mobile living solution—not just a weekend trip.
Additionally, this model requires less management since rentals are a three-month minimum, meaning no daily cleaning or maintenance between renters.
Who pays for insurance?
Since the vehicle is seller-financed, the buyer (renter) is responsible for getting their own car insurance, just like with any car purchase.
What about bad tenants—drug addicts, squatters, or people who damage the van?
Because this is seller financing, the renter is legally purchasing the vehicle and making payments. If they stop paying, the van can be repossessed, just like any financed car. This setup discourages reckless renters since they are on the hook for payments and upkeep.
What if someone burns it down or trashes it?
Since they are required to have insurance, any damage is their responsibility, not the original owner's. This is no different than financing a regular car—if you crash it, it’s your problem.
How do you make money doing this?
A basic strategy would be:
- Buy a used van for around $5,000 with 130K miles.
- Renovate it with a mattress and simple furniture.
- Sell it via seller financing at $400/month.
If someone lives in it for five years, they could pay around $20,000, making this a highly profitable model.
This model is already being done successfully in places like LA, where "vanlords" operate similar businesses. Learn more: Watch here.
That’s just a starting point for older, basic vans. More premium vans will be listed at higher rates. However, the goal is affordability—$400/month is still cheaper than rent in most places, making this an attractive option for many.