Startup Funds and Planning
You'll naturally need a property to run your bed and
breakfast. Some people prefer to find a fixer-upper. Keep in mind that guests
will be staying here as though it were a hotel. You'll also need to furnish the
bedroom that guests will be staying in. Local ordinances may require you to
install new safety fixtures. You'll want to look at what kinds of guests could
potentially be staying at your bed and breakfast. Tourists and business travelers
are an obvious choice. Many married people stay at bed and breakfast
establishments on their honeymoon. You'll want to make sure that your
establishment is warm and inviting before you start advertising to potential
guests. The good thing about starting a bed and breakfast is that many people
want to stay at a place that looks familiar. You may not have to change
anything at all. You should also plan out your menu and figure food costs into
your expenses.
A bed and breakfast is like any other business, so you'll
need a business license. You may want to come up with a catchy business name.
You'll have to look up the zoning ordinances in your area. These vary based on
the county that you live in. Some bed and breakfasts can operate as standard
residential businesses.
Setting Prices
Bed and breakfast establishments usually charge a flat fee
that includes everything. You'll want to call other bed and breakfast
businesses in your area to determine what the going rate is. Beachfront
properties can typically charge significantly more than ones that are opened in
suburban areas. Rural bed and breakfast establishments often make a lot of
money because the mortgage prices on the home are lower. Adding amenities to
the property may allow you to increase prices.
Consider Hiring Employees
Some bed and breakfast businesses don't hire any employees.
Some people prefer to seek out a helping hand after a few years of consistent
business. Try to hire someone that fits the image of your business. A typical
bed and breakfast doesn't have more than one or two people running it.
About the Author: Collin is a guest contributor from The Inns of Glendeven, a wonderful Little River bed and breakfast.
