Running a Bed and Breakfast For Dummies

Learn to: * Choose a location and make it your own * Create a profitable business plan * Decorate and renovate your property * Market your property for maximum occupancy All the tools you need to start and run a profitable B&B Do you dream of owning a B&B? This friendly, practical guide shows you how to make your dream a reality, with expert advice on everything from writing a business plan and finding the right location to handling situations you will encounter as an innkeeper. You'll make your guests feel at home, keep your inn in tip-top shape, and ensure your long-term success! * Understand B&B basics -- get an overview of the business and see if you have the skills (and the desire!) to succeed * Find a place to call home -- choose the location, style, and size of your ideal B&B * Transition from visitor to owner -- create your business plan, secure financing, make an offer, and protect your investment * Get ready for your guests -- organize your recordkeeping, set room rates and policies, furnish your inn, and market your services * Set the breakfast scene -- decide the style of breakfast to offer, accommodate guests' needs and restrictions, create signature dishes, and serve refreshments and snacks * Handle day-to-day operations -- take reservations, make your guests feel welcome, hire employees, and maintain your inn * Take your business to the next level -- assess your success, expand your market, increase profit, and prevent burnout Open the book and find: * How to transition an existing B&B or start from scratch * The biggest problems new B&Bs encounter -- and how to avoid them * The best ways to furnish your inn * Tips for saving time cleaning and preparing breakfast * What you must know to design and update your Web site * Tried-and-tested sample menus and recipes * Ways to guarantee a return guest * How to get extra help when you need it