Besides the business opportunity, Eric Peace (one of Wanderlust’s investors), saw a creative project, in the form of a reality show. He witnessed in real-time a relatable story about the realities of a startup home renovation business and managing the unmanageable. Add in wacky characters, impossible situations and a funny, shrewd boss lady, and what you get is lightning in a bottle!
Now, in the second phase of the business, several additional properties are in development, including a hotel retreat. Financing is secured. And plans are in place. Desert Rehabs's producers are game to document the business’s expansion, the unexpected adventures and clashes sure to come.
BACKSTORY
In 2018, Randi Sheehy quit her corporate executive job in the fragrance industry and relocated to Palm Springs, where she started a home renovation and property management business. Priced out of the Palm Springs real estate market, she decided to venture further north into the high desert region of Joshua Tree. The area's sparse population and surplus of affordable, distressed homes sparked Randi’s ambitions. With the region on the cusp of becoming California’s next boom town, her timing couldn’t have been more perfect!
Looking to fund her startup, Randi pitched her vision to her childhood friends. They were initially reluctant. But Randi’s powers of persuasion changed their minds, and the WanderLust business was born.
By the end of 2021, Wanderlust purchased and renovated seven homes, managing a total of 14 Airbnbs in Joshua Tree and neighboring communities.
