Running a Bed & Breakfast For Dummies

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