Eventually the cost of keeping the staff at the island caused the lighthouse to be depopulated on 26 June 2003.

She bought the lighthouse in order to make it accessible to the public, in accordance to Norwegian law (Stortingsmelding 28 (2000–2001)).

[4][5] Since 2006, Hansteensen has renovated much of the property to offer accommodation and daytime visitors an opportunity to explore the island.

The project at Litløy Lighthouse has been documented by the Norwegian Broadcasting Corporation (Norge rundt, autumn of 2006, ’Der ingen skulle tru at nokon kunne bu’, autumn of 2011)[7][8] The lighthouse owner is the island's only remaining permanent inhabitant, though various support staff are often present to help with renovations and daily tasks.

[9][10] The Norwegian Cultural Foundation supported the restoration of Littleisland Lighthouse with a substantial grant in 2021.

The tower was painted red in order to underline a new era for Littleisland Lighthouse which is now under construction to become a unique hotel suite.