The Mudcat Café TM
Thread #85310   Message #1579771
Posted By: KathWestra
09-Oct-05 - 08:31 PM
Thread Name: BS: Any advice on running a B&B?
Subject: RE: BS: Any advice on running a B&B?
The three couples and one single I've known who've run B&Bs here in the U.S. have all had cautionary tales about the extent to which ownership of such an establishment consumes them. There is apparently a fairly high "burnout" rate among B&B proprietors, mostly because of the need to be "on" at all hours, 24/7. It's not an option to hide out if you need some mental space, and the need to keep those occupancy numbers up makes vacations a rarity if they happen at all. My second-hand advice, based on my friends' reports, would be to go into this with your eyes wide open not just about the financial ramifications, but also on whether you're prepared to make your life revolve around your guests' needs every day of the year.
Good luck, Dave, whatever you decide! If you buy it, I may come visit someday. I surely prefer the B&B experience to that of staying in a chain hotel/motel affair. Best, Kathy