A
nna Julian first stumbled across a run‑down Baltimore row house seven years ago. With no formal construction background, she relied on Google searches and YouTube tutorials, learning as she went. That curiosity sparked a passion that would turn a single fixer‑upper into a thriving rental enterprise.

    Anna and her husband, Josiah, now run Renorowhome, a business that buys, renovates, and rents historic Baltimore row houses. Their work has earned them a following on Instagram and YouTube, where they document every step of the process and share practical DIY tips.

    The couple’s first major project was a two‑bedroom row home in 2018. They invested $25,000—mostly in labor they performed themselves—to modernize the 100‑year‑old building while preserving its exposed brick and hardwood floors. The renovation proved profitable, and the couple realized the value of their “sweat equity.” After renting out a single bedroom, they discovered a strong market for upscale, mid‑ to long‑term rentals and began repeating the cycle: buy, research, renovate, and lease.

    Their tenants are often traveling professionals, such as nurses from Johns Hopkins, or people in transition who need a ready‑to‑move‑in space. Every unit is fully furnished and includes utilities, allowing occupants to settle in comfortably from day one. The business model gives the Julians flexibility; if one property is vacant, another can fill the gap, providing stability and continuous cash flow.

    In 2022, they expanded beyond Baltimore, purchasing a 104‑year‑old farmhouse in Luray, VA, for $221,000. After $30,000 of renovations—including a hot tub—they converted it into a cozy farm stay. The property is now listed on Airbnb, with nightly rates ranging from $350 to over $500 during peak seasons. Meanwhile, their row houses remain available for both short‑ and long‑term stays, with monthly rents between $2,400 and $3,400.

    Social media has become a vital part of their strategy. What began as a way to keep friends updated evolved into a platform for community building and brand promotion. Their Instagram feed, highlighted by a recent 1960s ranch‑style home in Baltimore’s suburbs, showcases retro details and a distinctive screened‑in porch that has attracted significant attention. Followers appreciate the behind‑the‑scenes look at the renovation process and the practical advice Anna shares.

    Digital resources have also been lifesavers. When a garbage disposal clogged in one of their rentals, Anna found a TikTok tutorial that used a broom handle to clear the blockage—saving hours of frustration. The couple credits the internet for providing instant solutions to unexpected problems.

    Anna, who works in marketing, and Josiah, a physical education teacher, dedicate most of their spare time to restoring homes. They speak often about the joy of seeing a property transform from dilapidated to desirable, and the pride that comes from tenants creating memories in spaces they love. Their love for historic architecture drives them to peel back layers added by previous owners, restoring original character while adding modern comforts.

    The Julians emphasize that their journey wasn’t planned. It required a willingness to learn, a commitment of time, and a genuine passion for renovation. “If you’re not excited about the work, it will consume all your free time,” Anna cautions. “But for us, building this business together has been incredibly rewarding.”

    Through Renorowhome, the couple has turned a single neglected row house into a profitable, community‑focused enterprise that revitalizes Baltimore’s historic housing stock and offers travelers and locals alike a place to call home.