Thread: Need Advice/Input please

I have an opportunity to purchase an old 5 bedroom home that is in the family. I live in an area where the housing market is not strong, so the purchase will be reasonable. I would not be living in it, I would create a business out of it as a Quilt retreat house/weekend rental. The house has a lot of potential as far as enough space goes. I have several months to do my research to see if there is a need in my area for retreat homes and houses for things such as overflow for out of town guests for weddings and funerals. Is there a need for a place where a small group of women can just go and sew for several days at a time? It is located in a small town on the interstate, but not really anything to draw people like a lake or wonderful scenery. What are some things I need to consider? My motive is not to make money, but to keep the house in the family. I would be happy to break even and put sweat equity into the home for resale way down the road. Your input is appreciated.

Yes check your zoning laws first. You need to think about cost of upkeep and if you can use it as a weekend retreat/rental Are you prepared for damages and maintenance?

Originally Posted by Stitchnripper

I am surely not an expert, but are there zoning laws to allow what you want? Or not an issue where you are? Good luck with it, if you decide it is an option.

Originally Posted by Onebyone

This place is about what you are doing. They are very friendly people that own it. I would give them a call and set up a meeting. http://www.robertscarriagehouseretreat.com/

What a lovely place!----from website.......

To the original poster.....I wish you good luck in your possible plan of opening a retreat house........

Are there restaurants near by or would you expect the attendees to do there own cooking? My fellow attended are not interested in cooking. Will you have housekeeping services?

I go along with what AudreyB says. I've been to several quilt retreats at a 4-H camp during off season, and one to a church camp before the summer camp started. None of the places I know of are near a big city or on a main route, which made them more attractive. Do you have a great room where all the participants can set up tables for their machines and pressing stations, and still have room for a small lounging area? Will the septic or sewer system be able to handle all that flushing? With 5 bedrooms, how many twin beds will you put in? At one place the meals are prepared for us by an experienced cook. At the other place, the cooking was done by several employees who have other duties on site, so the "cooks" were out of their element. I'd go to that one again, but be better prepared with food I bring along. If you buy this house to keep it in the family, will you eventually live in it, or are you just trying to preserve it for memories sake?