They hired a specialized motel broker and an accountant to dive into the finances. They spent weeks reviewing three years of financial statements and occupancy reports to ensure the business was actually profitable. During their due diligence, they didn't just look at the books; they walked the property, checking the back areas for signs of neglect and ensuring the building was structurally sound.
: Check the "hidden" areas of the property; if the staff areas are clean, the rest of the motel likely is too. buying a motel
Despite the long hours—often reaching 60+ per week—the satisfaction was immediate. They loved meeting travelers and building relationships with returning customers. The flexibility of living where they worked and the potential for a high return on their investment made the transition worth it. They weren't just running a business; they were building a new life, one guest at a time. Key Considerations for Buying a Motel They hired a specialized motel broker and an
The reality of motel ownership set in quickly. Jack spent his first weekend fixing a leaking pipe in Room 4, while Sarah spent hours responding to online reviews and updating their booking system. They learned that the work never truly starts or stops; they were now on call 24/7. : Check the "hidden" areas of the property;
If you'd like to dive deeper into the process, I can help you with: A How to evaluate a motel's profit and loss statement The pros and cons of franchise vs. independent motels
Jack and Sarah Miller decided to trade their high-speed corporate lives for a 14-room roadside motel in the Catskills. They were tired of the 9-to-5 grind and wanted a business they could run together while living on-site.
: Always verify at least three years of financial statements and tax returns.