If you are interested in opening a Bed and Breakfast, a big decision you will have to make is deciding what kind of home you want to purchase to convert into your new business. Do you want a modernized or old-fashioned home? Do you want a home in the city center or in the outskirts? What house features would you want to entertain guests? A great option you may have not considered would be purchasing a historic home as a B&B. Whether history enthusiasts trekking from far distances, or weary travelers who are simply looking for an overnight accommodation, guests truly enjoy visiting century homes while staying at a B&B. Read on for 3 critical reasons why historical homes make great B&B’s.
History – Staying at a historical home is a great way to experience Canada’s historic heritage. These homes are unique, quaint, and offer glimpses into our nation’s intriguing past. Guests will feel like they are staying in their favorite historical books or movies. Truly, we all have an appreciation for the past, some of us more than others. The history buffs will love the stories, the history, and the charm that these homes provide. Additionally, it would be beneficial for innkeepers to be passionate about and know a great deal about the history of their homes, as many guests would be intrigued and love to ask questions about it.
Architecture – Another great advantage of having a historical home as your B&B is that the house architecture will represent a certain style and era in history, and guests will appreciate the era their B&B represents. Who needs to pay admission to visit a historic site when you can lodge in one! By experiencing the sights and sounds of these homes, guests can live out their potential dreams of experiencing life in a simpler time.
Location – In general, historical homes are conveniently located close to other historic sites, as well as other local attractions. This is great for guests wanting to go out and see what the area has to offer, and for the enthusiasts who want to experience the history of the region. Niagara-on-the-lake is a city rich in history and culture. Here, guests can enjoy museums, sites, theatres, antique shops, and fine restaurants, that are usually not too far from their lodging B&B.
So now that you know the reasons why historic homes make great B&B’s, here is how to get your B&B started. Look for historical homes for sale on listing websites, and make sure to choose one suitable for opening a B&B, paying attention to local rules and regulations. For opening a B&B in Niagara-on-the-Lake, visit Notl.org for additional information on licensing requirements. Additionally, it is a great idea to seek out professional assistance. Working with an expert real estate agent with years of experience selling B&B’s will know all about requirements and licensing, how to set up your space from start to finish, and what guests are looking for when looking to book accommodations.
Want to learn more about successfully running and operating your new business? Check out the Steps to Operating a Bed and Breakfast