Some people dream of opening their own cozy bed and breakfast because it allows them to meet different people and earn a good income. The best thing is they work from home, and still enjoy experiencing different cultures and adventures. Although it may not be easy living since opening a B&B requires a substantial start-up fund for renovations and upgrades, and paying for a business license, inspections, and other important things, depending on where you live.

Note that regulations vary from state to state, so make sure you plan and check everything before starting this venture. To help you out, we compiled a list of a few things you need to know before opening your first-ever bed and breakfast.

Plan your B&B

Every big venture requires thorough planning. Although it may seem like a fun and easy way to make money, in reality, it’s a business you’ll be operating with a large initial investment. Your bed and breakfast business plan should include your budget, target market, an estimation of how big you want your business to grow, etc. Depending on the size, age, and condition of your house, you may be required to put in a substantial amount of money on structural and aesthetic renovations and upgrades.

As a B&B owner, you’ll have to manage the business’s finances, take care of reservations, entertain guests, and do other things you may not be aware of in the beginning. Also, consider things like your personality because not everyone can operate a business while interacting and serving customers regularly.

Think about consulting with an attorney to save yourself the headache of current and future legal problems. Note that every business has a target audience, and bed and breakfasts are no exception. Decide how you want to market your B&B and advertise it as such on a website or through lodging ads. There are five main types of guests you’d like to appeal including tourists, romantic getaways, business travelers, college/university visitors, and locals needing extra lodging.

Invest in renovations and upgrades

When planning to open a B&B you must think about renovating and upgrading your house. Hire a reputable contractor if you want to make any repairs, conversions, or renovations to your home. The best way to find one is to ask for recommendations and choose one that has an established company and experience. Just don’t forget to get a written contract, and keep a record of your payments.

Investing in quality beds and fabrics, as well as amenities for your guests is essential. Furnish each of the rooms with beds, pillows, and towels. Invest in higher-quality bedding and custom mattresses to appease everyone’s needs. Make sure you take allergies into account when choosing a mattress. That’s why shopping for natural material mattresses is important.

In addition to furnishing each room, make sure you upgrade common areas depending on your budget and aesthetic taste. As a bare minimum, you should provide a nightstand, closet, reading lamp, blinds, and an armchair. Don’t forget about amenities such as Wi-Fi access to guests, alarm clock, and other things depending on your target clients. Decorate the rooms so they feel pleasant, and you might think about renovating or upgrading the kitchen since you won’t be cooking only for yourself.

Important things to consider before opening your B&B

You need to think about the necessary regulations. Depending on where you live will determine the licenses and permits you need to open a B&B. Note that this may vary by city, state, and county. In some places, owners have to apply, pay fees, and even submit to fingerprinting or a background check with city, state, or country police. Don’t forget to contact your city and/or county government for details about licenses and permits.

You will also need to think about whether to hire staff or you can operate the B&B on your own. At the very least, you’ll have to think about hiring an attorney and an accountant to help with finances. Think about on-daily-basis activities such as laundry, cleaning, checking people in and out of their rooms, preparing meals, restocking guest rooms after they’re vacated, and so on.

Take the time to make a meal plan, so you can also plan your kitchen space, budget, and laws governing food preparation in your region. Another important thing is to determine what to charge since setting room rates can be delicate. Don’t forget to set guest rules, meaning what is permissible and what will be forbidden such as pets, smoking, consuming alcohol, bringing non-guests back to their room, etc. One last thing before you open for business – don’t forget to market your B&B since it’s a very important part of running a business.

In closing

Once you’ve figured everything out, renovated, and upgraded your home, it’s time to open the doors of your B&B. Create a website or an app, so your guests can easily find you online and book a room. Use a registration ledger and make sure you keep all receipts from visiting guests since many states mandate that B&Bs purchase and maintain an up-to-date guest ledger. Make sure you enjoy this venture since starting a B&B is more of a lifestyle decision rather than just a business choice.