Choosing the right location for a bed and breakfast is an incredibly important decision. After all, it can make or break your business.
The right location for your B&B depends on the vision you have for your venture, your target market, and your own personal preferences. When you’re looking for a good location, you should also think about local amenities, whether the location is attractive to potential customers, as well as the property’s proximity to landmarks and attractions.
Here’s our guide to everything you should consider when looking for a good location for your bed and breakfast business.
The location’s USPs
What makes the location unique and special for choosing to run a bed and breakfast? Why would it appeal to guests?
Think about the amenities in the area, transport links, and things to do and see. Are there landmarks that offer guests a unique experience, exciting activities, or restaurants nearby?
Cater to your target market
When choosing a location for your B&B, you should ensure that you are able to cater for your specific target market.
For example, if you are reaching out to families, the area should not only be accessible by different transport links, but you should also look out for family friendly activities, amusement parks, nature reserves, and other attractions.
On the other hand, if you’re catering for young professionals in a city centre location, you should consider bars, restaurants, spa days, landmarks, shopping facilities, and any popular events or festivals that take place in the area.
And make sure there are activities for your target market to enjoy all year round – you want to attract guests 12 months of the year, not just around a certain date or event.
Has the area got a good reputation?
You can get a good feel for an area by walking around speaking to other residents and business owners. Asking simple questions about the area’s footfall, crime statistics, what type of people visit the area, as well as the area’s reputation can give you a good insight into whether it would be safe and attractive for guests.
Competition from other accommodation
When considering a location for your B&B, look for competition in the area. Starting a bed and breakfast in an area without lots of other hotels and guest houses could be a good call as the competition will be minimum. However, it’s also important to consider why there are no other similar businesses in the area – is there no demand?
Is location everything?
Location is incredibly important when searching for the perfect B&B. After all, you could stumble across the most perfect bed and breakfast. But if the location isn’t right or fails to impress your guests, you won’t generate enough bookings.
People want a reason to visit an area and what an area has to offer can really enhance your marketing efforts, optimise sales and inspire people to book and stay with you.
Why choose Stewart Hindley for your B&B finance?
If you’re considering buying a commercial property, it’s important to speak to someone experienced in the sector to ensure that you are aware of all the funding options available to you. Get in touch to speak to one of our skilled and experienced team. We are always on hand to answer any of your queries regarding commercial bed and breakfast mortgages.
