Tips for Running a Bed & Breakfast

Many people dream of running a bed and breakfast. It may also be a lucrative business idea for people who want to work for themselves. Bed and breakfast establishments tend to thrive in country settings. They're also found in vacation areas like Key West.

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.

Licensing and Zoning Laws

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.