So you think you want to be an owner of a B&B? In case you have failed to do some research, here are a few things that might make you think twice. You have probably stayed at one or two during your travels, and said “I can do this” – small cozy surroundings, a home fresh cooked breakfast (usually done by the host, who is actually the owner as well). You take an old house that may have six or seven bedrooms and after some extensive remodeling you now have a B&B. Dream on — I wish it were that easy.
Let’s talk startup cost for one thing; the amount of money you will need to get started, like construction cost, license, permits, kitchen equipment, beds, linen, utensils, china and the list goes on. If you are planning to purchase an existing B&B then this will not be necessary. You only then need to calculate the mortgage you will pay. But we will assume that it is an upgrade from a home to a B&B. A basic thing here to start, I will tell you now that the first year you will probably not make any money, so you had better have someone working to supplement the B&B.
Secondly, landscape is very important; guests like to see a story book home when searching for B&B places. Please don’t embellish, for you will never see these guests again. Your presentation must be flawless – plant flowers and brick walkways leading up to the B&B. Please don’t confuse an inn with the B&B.
As the owner you will be doing most of the work, sounds easy, right? Let’s see your daily schedule: up at 6am to prepare breakfast for the early risers, and normally there are two breakfast calls 7am, 8:30am. Now remember you are the host – there will be some socializing with the guest. After breakfast is done and cleaned up, there comes room cleaning – bathrooms to be cleaned, beds to be made, general cleaning, and such. Next, go to town to get provisions for the following days as needed; answer phones, take reservations and handles sales calls or inquiries.’ Having fun yet? Next you have bookkeeping duties to perform; since you are self-employed you will be handling your own insurance and benefits. By the time you are finished the next guest will be arriving for the evening, you will greet them and help with their luggage. Will you have an evening reception, like maybe wine, cheese?
Will your B&B be seasonal, or year around? Remember the job is 7 days a week – there are no days off, unless you have a partner who can spell you. You actually live in the house, so privacy may become an issue with you. Lots of things to think about. Not everyone is cut out to run a B&B. So before you say “I can do that” take a look at what is required of you/ spouse. Are you willing to serve guests in your house year round? You will need to figure out how much to charge per room night in order to make a profit.
Here is something else; most of your friends will think that since you are home all day, you will have time to entertain them when they drop by. They will ask you to be on different organizations since you now have all this free time on your hands. Get the picture? Isn’t life just grand? Having second thoughts yet? Remember to check zoning laws to make sure that it will allow a conversion to B&B. I could go on but then the article gets too lengthy. Good luck with your B&B.
About the Author
Alan Campbell has been in Las Vegas for over 30 years and has worked for the major strip hotels. He has spent some time in California, Los Angeles where he worked for the Radisson and Sheraton hotels. Alan considers the hospitality industry the best job in the world – it is the only place that both king's and Paupers will visit you.
The Hotel Guy
