In order to run a successful guest house, you’ll need to have the right combination of equipment, amenities and personnel. At the most basic level, you’ll need furniture, bedding, and linens for rooms, a front desk and checkout process, and laundry services.
You’ll also want to make sure you offer a high-quality customer experience, so you’ll want to choose features like complimentary breakfast, a home gym, business center, and concierge services depending on your target customer.
You’ll need to invest in plumbing, electrical, and security systems that keep you up to code, and you may want to include features like high-speed internet, TV, and functional heating and cooling systems.
You’ll also want to consider offering on-site parking and comfortable guest common spaces.
Personnel-wise, you’ll need a solid front of house staff with customer service, hospitality, and problem-solving skills to help make your guests’ stays comfortable. You’ll also need to look into support staff such as housekeeping, maintenance, and security personnel.
Finally, you should look into obtaining any necessary licensing or permits as required by your local municipality. With the right combination of amenities, equipment and personnel in place, you’ll be well on your way to running a successful guest house.
What are the characteristics of guest house?
Guest houses are a popular and cost-effective accommodation option for travelers. They are an excellent choice especially when staying in an unfamiliar country and bringing the comfort of home to the location.
Guest houses tend to be more personal than a hotel and have several distinguishing features, including:
1. Size: Guest houses are usually much smaller than a hotel, providing a more intimate atmosphere. Depending on the size, they can range from one-bedroom units to a few small rooms, although larger guest houses may exist as well.
2. Home-style amenities: Guest houses usually contain amenities like a kitchen, living room, dining room, kitchenette, and separate bedrooms – meaning more privacy. Many also provide patios, balconies, and other outdoor areas, depending on the property.
3. Local culture: Guest houses immerse travelers into the local culture and atmosphere. Since these are usually privately-owned, rather than part of a large chain, travelers get to experience a unique atmosphere unique to the property.
4. Cost: Guest houses are typically more affordable than staying in a hotel. Since they offer fewer services, like meal plans and concierge, the cost savings are passed onto the guest.
5. Personal service: Guest house owners or staff members often provide guests with unique insights and recommendations about the local area.
When traveling, guest houses provide an ideal combination of comfort, affordability, and an immersive experience into the local culture.
What is a good size for a guest house?
It really depends on what you want your guesthouse to be used for and how many people you would like to accommodate at the same time. Generally speaking, a good size for a guest house is usually a minimum of 500 square feet (46.
45 square meters), but can go up to 2000 square feet (185.8 square meters) depending on your needs. As a general rule, you should plan for at least one additional bedroom, lounge area, eating area, and bathroom for the guest house.
You may also want to consider adding a kitchen or small cooking area and an outdoor living space for extra comfort and practicality. Additionally, if you plan to use your guesthouse for extended guests, it is recommended to provide a larger space for storage and a comfortable workspace.
Do guest houses add value?
Guest houses can be a great way to add value to your property, both in terms of providing additional living space and increasing the value of your property. The additional square footage and features that come with constructing a guest house can prove to be beneficial in several ways.
Firstly, if you’re looking to sell your property, a guest house can be a major selling point and can help to increase its value. The extra square footage will provide potential buyers with more space and features, making the property more desirable and ultimately providing you with a higher return on your investment.
Additionally, renting out your guest house can be a great way to generate an extra income.
Beyond financials, constructing a guest house can be an excellent way to increase your living space and makes having visitors easier, allowing them to stay on site in a comfortable setting. Additionally, it can also be a great space for extended family members in need of a home, or an area for your children as they grow and eventually leave the family home.
In conclusion, guest houses can offer an array of benefits to homeowners looking to add value or extra living space, and can offer a great return on your investment in terms of selling your property or generating an extra income.
What is a good size spare bedroom?
A good size spare bedroom typically varies depending on your needs, but generally speaking, it should have enough space to accommodate a bed and some furniture. Additionally, it should be large enough to move around in comfortably, with enough room to walk around the bed and open and close the doors to dressers or closets.
Some experts suggest that a spare bedroom should measure at least 10 feet by 10 feet. If you plan to use the bedroom to provide guests with additional storage, you may want to consider making it bigger so that they have enough room to store items when they’re visiting.
What’s the difference between a guest house and a B&B?
The primary difference between a guest house and a Bed & Breakfast (B&B) is that a guest house is run like a hotel, while a B&B is run like a homeshare. In a guest house, guests usually pay a flat rate and have their own private room and shared amenities.
They often purchase breakfast separately or don’t have it included in the nightly rate. In a B&B, guests pay a nightly rate and can typically enjoy breakfast, served in a communal or family-style setting, as part of their stay.
Guest houses often have 24/7 customer service and can include amenities like a lounge area, sauna, and spa facilities. Guests usually have the choice between one-time and long-term stays. This type of accommodation is most popular amongst business and solo travelers.
Unlike a guest house, a B&B is more like a home as most are run out of the hosts’ homes. B&B’s are family-oriented and offer a more personal experience than a guest house. Breakfast is typically included in the accommodation fee and is served in a communal setting.
Guests can also enjoy additional amenities such as Wi-Fi, a kitchen area, and an outdoor area with seating. B&Bs are typically best suited to couples or those looking for a romantic getaway.
Can you build a room in your backyard?
Yes, you can build a room in your backyard. Depending on the size and complexity of the structure you have in mind, this project could require various amounts of time and money. You will need to consider the foundation, the construction materials, the design, and any permits that may be necessary before starting.
Developing accurate plans, obtaining the necessary materials, and making certain you have the right tools for the job are all crucial steps in the process. You will also need to factor in costs for any labor required as well as any necessary specialized building materials.
If you are unsure what is or isn’t possible on your property, you may need to consult a professional to help you. Finally, if you want to install plumbing, electricity, or other amenities in your backyard room, this can add considerable expense and complexity to the project, and it is best to consult with a licensed contractor in the early stages.
What should a guest house include?
A guest house should include all the essential amenities that guests need to enjoy their stay. This should include bedrooms, with comfortable beds and linens; a living space, where guests can relax and socialise; and a kitchen area, which is well-stocked with utensils and other necessities.
The guest house should also have full bathroom amenities, a laundry facility, and a storage area. In addition to these basic necessities, a welcoming atmosphere can be created through thoughtful detailing, such as decorations, a cosy seating area, and a dining table for meals.
Also, basic technology and entertainment items, such as a television, DVD player, and WiFi connection can enhance the overall experience. Finally, a guest house should include access to outdoor spaces, such as a patio, terrace, or garden area, and should be kept clean and tidy to keep guests comfortable and relaxed.
How much does it cost to build a small guest room?
The cost of building a small guest room will depend on a number of factors, including the materials and labor required, as well as the overall size of the room and any additional features or amenities included.
The cost for materials could range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand depending on the type and quality of items chosen, while labor could range from a few thousand to several thousand depending on experience and duration of project.
Additional costs may include finishes, such as paint, wallpaper, or even carpeting; plus furniture, bedding, and other necessary items to make the room more comfortable. The total cost of building a small guest room could range anywhere from $3,000 to $10,000 or more, depending on all the factors mentioned above.
What is a small side house called?
A small side house is commonly referred to as a ‘granny flat’ or ‘mother-in-law suite’. Generally, these are self-contained units, situated on the same property as the main house, but with its own entrance and facilities.
Granny flats or mother-in-law suites are popular because they provide an ideal solution for mothers-in-law and adult children who want to live in close proximity to their family, but still maintain their independence.
They also provide a great option for homeowners who wish to have additional income by providing rental accommodation. Granny flats are becoming increasingly popular due to their proximity and convenience, as well as the fact that they are usually more affordable than renting a separate apartment.
What do you call a second house on a property?
A second house on a property is typically referred to as a guest house, accessory dwelling unit (ADU), or a granny flat. Guest houses and ADUs refer to additional housing units that are situated on a property with a primary residence, while a granny flat is a smaller dwelling on the grounds of a main house that is typically used as accommodation by elderly or extended family members.
How big is a casita?
A casita is typically a smaller, detached home or apartment. Depending on the region, a casita could range greatly in size. Most casitas are typically less than 1,000 square feet, though they can range anywhere from 500 square feet to over 2,000 square feet.
Casitas can sometimes accompany larger homes, such as in the case of a guest house or an in-law suite. In some regions, like the Santa Fe and Albuquerque areas of New Mexico, casitas are a popular style of smaller home, and often feature an adobe, Santa Fe-style architecture.
Some casitas may not offer a full kitchen, and instead, feature just a tiny kitchenette, making them perfect for short-term rentals or for use as a separate office space.
