how to create a business plan for a hotel

Hotel Business Plan Template

Written by Dave Lavinsky

Hotel Business Plan

You’ve come to the right place to create a comprehensive business plan for a hotel.

We have helped over 100,000 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans and many have used them to start or grow their hotel companies.

Sample Hotel Business Plan Template

Below is a sample business plan to help you create each of the key elements of a well-developed business plan:

Executive Summary

Business overview.

Pegasus Hotel is a startup full-service independent luxury hotel in Austin, Texas. Owned by two local businessmen, Frank Girard and Miles Butler, it will serve the new up and coming district of the outskirts of Austin and cater to the locals and travelers who crave a luxurious and relaxing atmosphere. Pegasus Hotel will be a 10-story, 360-room hotel with a five-star restaurant and bar, relaxing pool and spa, 20,00 square feet of meeting and event space, a spacious and fully-equipped fitness center, and a view of scenic Austin. Pegasus Hotel will hold weddings and events, meetings, retreats, and those looking to unwind and be pampered while staying at the hotel. The service and amenities will be first class and the concierge will treat guests with extreme care and ensure guest satisfaction is held at an exceptional standard..

Service Offering

The following are the services and amenities that Pegasus Hotel will provide:

• 354 luxury rooms, two presidential suites, and four parlor suites
• Olympic size pool with adjacent hot tubs and surrounding cabanas
• First-class full-service spa
• First-class restaurant and bar
• Spacious fitness center
• Over 20,000 square feet of attractive meeting space for events
• Concierge and butler service
• Complimentary wifi
• Valet service
• Laundry service
• Business center

Customer Focus

Pegasus Hotel will target the population of Austin, Texas, its surrounding communities, and travelers visiting Austin for work or play. Guests will be mid to high level income, enjoy traveling, enjoy visiting spas and high-end restaurants, and work in the corporate or government sector.

Management Team

Pegasus Hotel will be owned by Frank Girard and Miles Butler. They will act in an Owner capacity, and will not be involved in the daily operations of the hotel. Frank and Miles will hire the appropriate staff to ensure Pegasus Hotel is a profitable and successful business.

Lorenzo Falucci, General Manager, has over twenty years of experience in the hospitality industry. He has most recently managed another independent boutique hotel in New York and was excited to be recruited by Frank and Miles to operate the Pegasus Hotel.

Success Factors

Pegasus Hotel will be able to achieve success by offering the following competitive advantages:

• Friendly, attentive, and highly responsive staff that caters to each guest and will be able to provide the best guest experience possible.
• Luxurious amenities throughout the hotel that will make each guest feel pampered.
• Modern and contemporary designed hotel tucked against a beautiful Texas landscape perfectly suited to host any event.
• Competitive rates and frequent guest discounts.

Financial Highlights

Pegasus Hotel is seeking $10,000,000 in debt financing to begin constructing the hotel and commence operations of the business. The funding will be dedicated towards securing the land lease and the hotel build-out and design. Funding will also be dedicated towards three months of overhead costs to include payroll of the staff, furniture, fixtures, and equipment, initial inventory, and working capital. The breakout of the funding is below:

• Secure the land lot, architecture, build-out, and design: $6,000,000
• Hotel furniture, fixtures, and equipment: $2,000,000
• Initial inventory: $750,000
• Three months of overhead expenses (payroll, rent, utilities): $1,000,000
• Marketing efforts & advertising: $150,000
• Working capital: $100,000

The following graph below outlines the pro forma financial projections for Pegasus Hotel.

Company Analysis

Who is pegasus hotel.

Pegasus Hotel is a startup full-service independent luxury hotel in Austin, Texas. Owned by two local businessmen, Frank Girard and Miles Butler, it will serve the new up and coming district of the outskirts of Austin and cater to the locals and travelers who crave a luxurious and relaxing atmosphere. Pegasus Hotel will be a 10-story, 360-room hotel with a five-star restaurant and bar, relaxing pool and spa, 20,00 square feet of meeting and event space, and a view of scenic Austin. Pegasus Hotel will hold weddings and events, meetings, retreats, and those looking to unwind and be pampered while staying at the hotel. The mission statement of the hotel is to provide first class service and amenities.

The guests rooms will include luxury beds and bedding with best-in-class furniture and bathroom fixtures. Pegasus Hotel will also have a full-service spa that will be able to provide massages, facials, makeup and/or hair service, steam rooms, and a sauna. The Olympic-sized pool will have adjacent hot tubs with a swim-up bar and surrounding cabanas. Pegasus Hotel will be equipped with state-of-the-art fitness equipment in its spacious gym. The restaurant will be a high-end steakhouse that will feature entrees from a world-renowned chef and a wine list cultivated by the area’s most respected sommelier. There will also be over 20,000 square feet of meeting space that will hold weddings, bat mitzvahs, reunions, galas, and any special event.

Pegasus Hotel will be independently owned and operated and will feature its own reservation system and operational software. Each employee will be expertly trained and vetted to pass luxury industry guest service standards. Pegasus Hotel is committed to providing the best guest experience possible while maintaining a profitable hotel. Pegasus Hotel aims to be a step above the rest and be an unforgettable experience for all who step foot into the hotel.

Pegasus Hotel History

Pegasus Hotel is owned by two local businessmen, Frank Girard and Miles Butler. Frank and Miles have been friends and business associates for over thirty years. They became friends in college while attending The University of Texas at Austin. Frank is a real estate developer specializing in commercial real estate and multi-use land projects. Miles is a software engineer who has built multitudes of software programs for various companies. They have both been extremely successful in their careers and want to divest their investments in a large-scale full-service hotel in Austin, Texas.

Since incorporation, Pegasus Hotel has achieved the following key milestones:

• Acquired a 40-acre lot on the outskirts of Austin, Texas.
• Registered Pegasus Hotel, LLC to do business in the State of Texas.
• Hired a consultant to conduct a feasibility study for a full-service hotel in Austin.
• Began developing reservation and operational management software for use at the hotel.
• Began the branding image, logo, website, and social media accounts for the staffing agency.
• Applied for a liquor and mixed beverage permit with the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission.
• Hired an architect to begin the design phase of the hotel.

Pegasus Hotel Services

The following will be the services and amenities Pegasus Hotel will provide:

Industry Analysis

The hotel industry is expected to increase to a $133 billion in the next five years. The hospitality industry will benefit from increases in travel spending, corporate profit and general consumer spending.

As consumers earn higher incomes and businesses replenish their budgets, travel spending is projected to increase over the next five years. Inbound trips by non-US residents are anticipated to rise 22% over next the five years, while domestic travel is expected to grow 9% during the same period.

This competitive industry will see particularly strong future growth in extended-stay hotels, boutique hotels, spa and health retreats and resorts segments. As demand for these auxiliary services picks up, industry employment is anticipated to recover and increase over the next five years. Industry players are also expected to continue expanding abroad into emerging economies, such as Asia, Eastern Europe and South America. These foreign markets are expected to somewhat detract from domestic capital investment, as they offer higher growth prospects for industry operators.

Customer Analysis

Demographic profile of target market.

The precise demographics for Austin, Texas are:

Customer Segmentation

Pegasus Hotel will primarily target the following customer profiles:

• Individuals and families who have disposable income (mid to high level)
• Frequent travelers
• Individuals who dine out and visit spas frequently
• White collar workers (corporate or government office)

Competitive Analysis

Direct and indirect competitors.

Pegasus Hotel will face competition from other companies with similar business profiles. A description of our direct competitors is below.

Hotel Ella is a historic boutique hotel located in Austin, Texas. Located in downtown Austin and walking distance to the University of Texas campus, Hotel Ella is a stylish boutique hotel housed in the historic Goodall Wooten House, one of Austin’s original landmark estates. Constructed in 1900, the Greek revival-style mansion underwent an extensive renovation in 2013, and now offers the perfect balance between modernity and a rich history rooted in the fabric of the neighborhood and the university. Hotel Ella has 47 guest rooms, a cabana-lined pool, and a wrap-around veranda overlooking the front lawn. Hotel Ella features beautifully designed outdoor and indoor spaces perfectly suited for a vacation, wedding, or corporate event. The hotel also features a diverse collection of Texas Modernist works around the hotel grounds.

All guests of Hotel Ella are treated to warm southern hospitality and superior personalized service during their stay. The historic property is appointed with a variety of elegant 21st century amenities. Hotel Ella also offers the following amenities and guest services:

• Complimentary 24-hour guest services
• Complimentary high-speed wi-fi access
• Complimentary electric car charging station
• Complimentary morning newspapers available in the historic mansion
• Complimentary coffee stations from 5am – 11am
• Twice-daily housekeeping service
• Cabana-lined outdoor pool
• Fitness center
• Same-day valet laundry services
• In-room dining by Goodall’s
• Business services: photocopying, printing, postal services, and supplies

Hotel Ella also welcomes dogs of all sizes at no additional fee.

Kimber Modern

Kimber Modern is located in the hip SoCo district of Austin and is intended to draw in the independent urban traveler seeking a unique escape. It is architecturally designed with clean lines and abundant light filtered through canopies of oaks in an artfully landscaped Courtyard. The hotel also encompasses absolute comfort and attention to detail while providing technologically sophisticated rooms in their boutique guest rooms. Guests booking at Kimber Modern will receive complimentary beverages, parking, and WiFi.

Kimber Modern offers the following hotel amenities to its guests:

• Off street covered parking
• Electric car charging station
• Keyless entry
• Complimentary WiFi throughout the hotel
• Multi-level courtyard with a 25-foot glass water feature with multiple areas to lounge
• Jura self-serve coffee system featuring a variety of coffee drinks 24/7
• Beverage bar 24/7
• Gourmet teas
• Virtual concierge – computer, printer, and copier
• Meeting space available for groups
• 3pm check-in and noon check-out

Guests are also available to book the entire hotel for their group.

The Cat Noir Hotel

The Cat Noir Hotel is an award-winning 14-room boutique hotel located in the heart of Austin’s east side. The European-styled boutique hotel includes a restaurant and bar partner, Uncle Nicky’s Italian Specialties. Uncle Nicky’s offers a relaxed all-day dining experience that is themed after cafes in northern Italy. The Cat Noir Hotel opened in 2016 and has been ranked #2 by Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Awards and Top 20 Best Hotels in Texas by Conde Nast Traveler.

The Cat Noir Hotel’s contemporary design maintains a sense of warmth and a unique aesthetic that is felt through the lobby, outdoor spaces, and each of the unique guest rooms. In addition to the design elements, The Cat Noir Hotel boasts the following features:

• Private roof deck for guests to enjoy the stunning views of downtown, the Texas Capitol, and the University of Texas
• Outdoor patio and courtyard areas on all levels
• Artwork from local artists

Each of the guest rooms include Juliet balconies with neighborhood views, fine linens, and Simmons luxury plush mattresses.

Competitive Advantage

Pegasus Hotel will be able to offer the following advantages over their local competition:

Marketing Plan

Brand & value proposition.

Pegasus Hotel will offer the unique value proposition to its target local market:

• Professional and attentive staff dedicated to ensure complete guest satisfaction.
• Various amenities throughout the hotel for any guest to enjoy.
• Modern and contemporary design with beautiful Texas views throughout the entire hotel.
• Competitive rates.

Promotions Strategy

The promotions strategy for Pegasus Hotel is as follows:

Social Media

Pegasus Hotel will invest in advertising the hotel on social media platforms Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter. By using targeted social media marketing, Pegasus Hotel will be able to reach those who frequent nice restaurants and spas and travel frequently.

Website/SEO Marketing

Pegasus Hotel will invest in a strong SEO presence so that when someone enters “Austin boutique hotel” or “first class hotel near me” in their Google or Bing search bar, Pegasus Hotel is at the top of the list. Their website will feature photos of the guest rooms, meeting areas, pool, spa, fitness center, and restaurant/bar. Future guests will be able to make a reservation to book their future stay on the website and access contact information for either a Director of Sales or General Manager of the property.

Pegasus Hotel will request all requests for news stories regarding the development of the hotel, owner/developer information, opening dates, etc. By accommodating the press’ requests for stories, it will also be free advertising for the public to learn about the new up and coming luxury hotel.

Frank and Miles will invest in a billboard in downtown Austin where the mid to upper class of residents frequent. The hotel will be minimalistic but eye-catching. It will feature an attractive rendering of the hotel along with the website. Curious passersby will be directed to visit the hotel’s website for detailed information.

Third Party Booking Websites / Online Travel Agencies

Once the hotel is nearing 60 days towards opening, all of the third-party websites will feature Pegasus Hotel so that travelers visiting Austin will be able to see it listed as an option for Austin hotels.

Bridal Shows and Wedding Industry Events

Pegasus Hotel will have a table at all of Austin’s bridal shows and wedding industry events. It will attract those couples searching for a venue to accommodate their special day.

The pricing of Pegasus Hotel will be moderate and on par with competitors so customers feel they receive value when purchasing its guest rooms and services.

Operations Plan

The following will be the operations plan for Pegasus Hotel.

Operation Functions:

• Frank and Miles will be the owners of the hotel and hire the appropriate staff to manage the hotel. Frank will act as CFO of the hotel and Miles will be in charge of the reservation system, hotel operations software, and revenue management. Miles developed the software and will focus on making sure it’s always functional and efficient.
• General Manager will be hired to oversee the entire staff and hotel operations to include guest satisfaction, oversee vendor contracts, events, and making sure that each department is running effectively and efficiently.
• Assistant General Manager to assist the General Manager with overseeing the staff, with particular attention to guest satisfaction and front desk operations.
• Director of Sales will be hired to sell events, corporate accounts, and group bookings for the hotel.
• Maintenance Engineer will be hired to attend to all mechanical and plumbing issues that may arise.
• Executive Housekeeper will be hired to lead the team of housekeepers to make sure all areas of the hotel are being cleaned to Pegasus Hotel standards and that each guest is receiving all accommodations to their requested schedule.

Milestones:

Pegasus Hotel will have the following milestones completed in the next six months.

8/1/202X – Purchase land lot and break ground on new hotel business.

8/15/202X – Finalize architectural renderings and hire a General Contractor to build the hotel.

9/1/202X – Finalize contract with advertising company for them to design the branding image of the hotel, logo, website, billboard, and social media accounts.

9/15/202X – Begin social media and website advertising campaign. Billboard with a teaser of ‘Coming Soon’ will go up in downtown Austin.

10/5/202X – Hire General Manager and Director of Sales.

10/15/202X – Attend annual Wedding Industry Event with a table to begin advertising Pegasus Hotel.

11/1/202X – Pegasus Hotel will go live on third party booking websites.

11/15/202X – Remainder of staff will be hired to begin training program.

11/30/202X – Final walk-thru of newly constructed Pegasus Hotel.

12/15/202X – Begin furnishing and interior design of the hotel.

1/1/202X – Grand Opening of Pegasus Hotel.

Pegasus Hotel will be owned by Frank Girard and Miles Butler. They will act in an Owner capacity, and will not be involved in the day to day operations of the hotel. Frank and Miles will hire the appropriate staff to ensure Pegasus Hotel is a profitable and successful business.

Lorenzo Falucci, General Manager, has over twenty years of experience in the hotel industry. He has most recently managed another independent boutique hotel in New York and was excited to be recruited by Frank and Miles to operate the Pegasus Hotel.

Lorenzo will hire Lisa Montgomery as the Director of Sales and David Jimenez as the Assistant General Manager. After an exhaustive search, Lorenzo believes has found the next two senior management positions to ensure the success of the hotel. Each comes with an impressive resume of prior hotel sales and operational experience.

Lorenzo, Lisa, and David will be the senior management team of Pegasus Hotel. They will oversee all other department managers – Maintenance, Housekeeping, Front Desk/Guest Relations, and Food and Beverage. Each department manager will oversee various employees in their respective department and role. The Pegasus Hotel will have a large and sophisticated operation as each department is integral in the success of the hotel.

Lorenzo, Lisa, and David will meet with Frank and Miles monthly to update them on progress and overall operations and sales efforts of the Pegasus Hotel.

Financial Plan

Key revenue & costs.

The revenue drivers for Pegasus Hotel are the revenues it will collect when guests book a reservation at the hotel. The hotel will also collect revenues from its restaurant and bar, spa, and events it will host.

The cost drivers will be the payroll and overhead costs to staff the hotel. Other start-up costs will involve the land lease, utilities, marketing costs, and technology fees. There will also be costs associated with the maintenance of the hotel, food and beverage inventory, spa inventory, and hotel guest room supplies.

Funding Requirements and Use of Funds

• Marketing & advertising: $150,000

Key Assumptions

The following outlines the key assumptions required in order to achieve the revenue and cost numbers in the financials and in order to pay off the startup business loan.

• Initial Number of Room Nights Sold per Month: 8,000
• Number of Events per Month: 30
• Land Lease per Year: $1,500,000

Financial Projections

Income statement.

Balance Sheet

Cash Flow Statement

Free Hotel Business Plan Template PDF

You can download our hotel business plan PDF here. This is a business plan template you can use in PDF format. You can easily complete your hotel business plan using our Hotel Business Plan Template here .

Hotel Business Plan FAQs

What is a hotel business plan.

A hotel business plan is a plan to start and/or grow your hotel business. Among other things, it outlines your hotel concept, identifies your target customers, presents your hotel marketing plan and details your revenue projections.

What are the Steps To Start a Hotel Business?

Starting a hotel business can be an exciting endeavor. Having a detailed roadmap of the steps to start a business will help you stay focused on your business goals and get started faster.

Develop A Hotel Business Plan – The first step in starting a business is to create a solid business plan that outlines all aspects of the venture. This includes market research to identify the potential market size and target audience, the hotel’s services, pricing strategies and a detailed financial forecast.  

Choose Your Business Structure – It’s important to select an appropriate legal entity for your hotel business. This could be a limited liability company (LLC), corporation, partnership, or sole proprietorship. Each type has its own benefits and drawbacks so it’s important to do research and choose wisely so that your hotel business is in compliance with local laws.

Register Your Hotel Business – Once you have chosen a legal structure, the next step is to register your hotel business with the government or state where you’re operating from. This includes obtaining licenses and permits as required by federal, state, and local laws. 

Identify Financing Options – It’s likely that you’ll need some capital to start your hotel business, so take some time to identify what financing options are available such as bank loans, potential investors, grants, or crowdfunding platforms to secure funding.

Choose a Location – Whether you plan on operating out of a physical location or not, you should always have an idea of where you’ll be based should it become necessary in the future as well as what kind of space would be suitable for your operations. 

Hire Employees – There are several ways to find qualified employees including job boards like LinkedIn or Indeed as well as hiring agencies if needed – depending on what type of employees you need it might also be more effective to reach out directly through networking events. 

Acquire Necessary Hotel Equipment & Supplies – In order to start your hotel business, you’ll need to purchase all of the necessary equipment and supplies to run a successful operation. 

Market & Promote Your Business – Once you have all the necessary pieces in place, it’s time to start promoting and marketing your own hotel business. This includes creating a website, utilizing social media platforms like Facebook or Twitter, and having an effective digital marketing strategy including SEO and paid advertising. You should also consider traditional marketing techniques such as radio or print advertising. 

Learn more about how to start a new hotel business:

How to Start a Hotel Business

Other Helpful Business Plan Templates

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How to Write a Successful Hotel Business Plan + Template

Creating a business plan is essential for any business, but it can be especially helpful for hotel businesses who want to improve their strategy and/or raise funding.

A well-crafted business plan not only outlines the vision for your company, but also documents a step-by-step roadmap of how you are going to accomplish it. In order to create an effective business plan, you must first understand the components that are essential to its success.

This article provides an overview of the key elements that every hotel business owner should include in their business plan.

Download the Ultimate Hotel Business Plan Template

What is a Hotel Business Plan?

A hotel business plan is a formal written document that describes your company’s business strategy and its feasibility. It documents the reasons you will be successful, your areas of competitive advantage, and it includes information about your team members. Your business plan is a key document that will convince investors and lenders (if needed) that you are positioned to become a successful venture.

Why Write a Hotel Business Plan?

A hotel business plan is required for banks and investors. The document is a clear and concise guide of your business idea and the steps you will take to make it profitable.

Entrepreneurs can also use this as a roadmap when starting their new company or venture, especially if they are inexperienced in starting a business.

Writing an Effective Hotel Business Plan

The following are the key components of a successful hotel business plan:

Executive Summary

The executive summary of a hotel business plan is a one to two page overview of your entire business plan. It should summarize the main points, which will be presented in full in the rest of your business plan.

• Start with a one-line description of your hotel company
• Provide a short summary of the key points in each section of your business plan, which includes information about your company’s management team, industry analysis, competitive analysis, and financial forecast among others.

Company Description

This section should include a brief history of your company. Include a short description of how your company started, and provide a timeline of milestones your company has achieved.

If you are just starting your hotel business, you may not have a long company history. Instead, you can include information about your professional experience in this industry and how and why you conceived your new venture. If you have worked for a similar company before or have been involved in an entrepreneurial venture before starting your hotel firm, mention this.

You will also include information about your chosen hotel business model and how, if applicable, it is different from other companies in your industry.

Industry Analysis

The industry or market analysis is an important component of a hotel business plan. Conduct thorough market research to determine industry trends and document the size of your market. 

Questions to answer include:

• What part of the hotel industry are you targeting?
• How big is the market?
• What trends are happening in the industry right now (and if applicable, how do these trends support the success of your company)?

You should also include sources for the information you provide, such as published research reports and expert opinions.

Customer Analysis

This section should include a list of your target audience(s) with demographic and psychographic profiles (e.g., age, gender, income level, profession, job titles, interests). You will need to provide a profile of each customer segment separately, including their needs and wants.

For example, a hotel business’ customers may include:

• Business travelers
• Leisure travelers
• Groups and conventions
• Wedding parties
• Local residents

You can include information about how your customers make the decision to buy from you as well as what keeps them buying from you.

Develop a strategy for targeting those customers who are most likely to buy from you, as well as those that might be influenced to buy your products or hotel services with the right marketing.

Competitive Analysis

The competitive analysis helps you determine how your product or service will be different from competitors, and what your unique selling proposition (USP) might be that will set you apart in this industry.

For each competitor, list their strengths and weaknesses. Next, determine your areas of competitive differentiation and/or advantage; that is, in what ways are you different from and ideally better than your competitors.

Below are sample competitive advantages your hotel business may have:

• Location : if your hotel is located in an ideal spot for leisure or business travelers, this could be a key competitive advantage
• Amenities : if your hotel offers unique amenities that are appealing to your target market segments, this could give you a leg up on the competition
• Customer service : if you focus on delivering exceptional customer service, this could be a key selling point

Marketing Plan

This part of the business plan is where you determine and document your marketing plan. . Your plan should be clearly laid out, including the following 4 Ps.

• Product/Service : Detail your product/service offerings here. Document their features and benefits.
• Price : Document your pricing strategy here. In addition to stating the prices for your products/services, mention how your pricing compares to your competition.
• Place : Where will your customers find you? What channels of distribution (e.g., partnerships) will you use to reach them if applicable?
• Promotion : How will you reach your target customers? For example, you may use social media, write blog posts, create an email marketing campaign, use pay-per-click advertising, launch a direct mail campaign. Or you may promote your hotel business via public relations (PR), speaking engagements, or other thought-leadership activities.

Operations Plan

This part of your hotel business plan should include the following information:

• How will you deliver your product/service to customers? For example, will you do it in person or over the phone only?
• What infrastructure, equipment, and resources are needed to operate successfully? How can you meet those requirements within budget constraints?

The operations plan is where you also need to include your company’s business policies. You will want to establish policies related to everything from customer service to pricing, to the overall brand image you are trying to present.

Finally, and most importantly, in your Operations Plan, you will lay out the milestones your company hopes to achieve within the next five years. Create a chart that shows the key milestone(s) you hope to achieve each quarter for the next four quarters, and then each year for the following four years. Examples of milestones for a hotel business include reaching $X in sales. Other examples include adding new locations, launching a new product/service, or hiring new employees.

Management Team

List your team members here including their names and titles, as well as their expertise and experience relevant to your specific hotel industry. Include brief biography sketches for each team member.

Particularly if you are seeking funding, the goal of this section is to convince investors and lenders that your team has the expertise and experience to execute on your plan. If you are missing key team members, document the roles and responsibilities you plan to hire for in the future.

Financial Plan

Here you will include a summary of your complete and detailed financial plan (your full financial projections go in the Appendix). 

This includes the following three financial statements:

Income Statement

Your income statement should include:

• Revenue: how much revenue you generate.
• Cost of Goods Sold: These are your direct costs associated with generating revenue. This includes labor costs, as well as the cost of any equipment and supplies used to deliver the product/service offering.
• Net Income (or loss): Once expenses and revenue are totaled and deducted from each other, this is the net income or loss

Sample Income Statement for a Startup Hotel Business

Balance Sheet

Include a balance sheet that shows your assets, liabilities, and equity. Your balance sheet should include:

• Assets : All of the things you own (including cash).
• Liabilities : This is what you owe against your company’s assets, such as accounts payable or loans.
• Equity : The worth of your business after all liabilities and assets are totaled and deducted from each other.

Sample Balance Sheet for a Startup Hotel Business

Cash Flow Statement

Include a cash flow statement showing how much cash comes in, how much cash goes out and a net cash flow for each year. The cash flow statement should include:

• Cash Flow From Operations
• Cash Flow From Investments
• Cash Flow From Financing

Below is a sample of a projected cash flow statement for a startup hotel business.

Sample Cash Flow Statement for a Startup Hotel Business

You will also want to include an appendix section which will include:

• Your complete financial projections
• A complete list of your company’s business policies and procedures related to the rest of the business plan (marketing, operations, etc.)
• Any other documentation which supports what you included in the body of your business plan.

Writing a good business plan gives you the advantage of being fully prepared to launch and/or grow your hotel company. It not only outlines your business vision but also provides a step-by-step process of how you are going to accomplish it.

As you can see, there is a lot that goes into creating a successful hotel business plan. But with careful planning and execution, you can set your hotel business up for success.  

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Starting a lodging business Full guide & resources

So you want to be a hotel owner? Now might be an opportune time. 

Hotels proved their resiliency during the pandemic and have experienced remarkable growth in the years since. Today, lodging businesses are enjoying high occupancy rates and unprecedented pricing power. Moreover, certain hotel industry sectors, such as luxury resorts and select-service hotels, are achieving record profitability. 

As other hotel proprietors may tell you, owning a hotel can be a rich and rewarding experience, but it’s also a lot of work, and there is a degree of risk involved. 

Do you have what it takes to own and operate a successful hotel business? In this step-by-step guide, we’ll take you through how to launch a hotel business. You’ll hear from real-life hoteliers about their experiences and get advice from industry experts to help you avoid common pitfalls.

Why own a hotel? The benefits of owning a lodging business 

Before anything, it’s a good idea to clarify your objectives. Why do you want to own a hotel? Is it because you want to host the rich and famous, design your dream spot, or get fabulously wealthy? Or do you have more charitable objectives in mind, like providing refuge for weary travelers or helping build your local community? For three-time property owners Kristy Espat and Victor Tofan, it kind of happened by accident. 

As the owners of hotels in Peru , Germany , and Spain, Victor and Kristy come from families with experience in the industry. Victor says,

No matter how you come into hotel ownership, here are some of the benefits you can expect:

• Return on investment. A well-managed hotel can generate significant revenue for its owners. However, returns on investment (ROI) can vary broadly by property type and location. Hotel performance is also vulnerable to outside forces such as the economy’s health, travel disruptions, severe weather, or a pandemic.
• Property value. Hotel properties can appreciate in value over time, especially when situated in a prime location. As the property value increases, so does the potential return on investment if the owner decides to sell. 
• Tax benefits. Depending on where the hotel is located, owners may be eligible for tax benefits such as allowances for capital expenditures, structures and buildings, annual investments, and capital gains relief. 
• Social and networking opportunities. Owning a hotel presents all sorts of opportunities to meet and mingle with guests and clients from around the world, build a team of hospitality professionals, and partner with local businesses, forging lifelong relationships. 

So, while your business idea may bring a lot of prestige and opportunity, it also comes with a lot of risk and responsibility. 

5 common hotel business models

Hotels come in all shapes and sizes within the hospitality industry, with various types of business models. Here are some of the most common ones:

1) Independent hotels

An independent hotel is typically owner-operated rather than run by a hotel management company or affiliated with a hotel brand .

Who’s it for?

Independent hotels are a good fit for entrepreneurs with the know-how to run a hospitality business, want to be hands-on, and are looking for control over their brand identity and operating standards. However, independent hotels don’t enjoy the advantages of brand awareness and economies of scale offered by an affiliation with a large, well-known brand. They have to work extra hard to build awareness and guest loyalty.

Kristy and Victor are independent property owners and attribute the right technology to helping them manage everything on their own. Victor says,

2) Managed hotels

A managed hotel is operated by a third-party hotel management company. This may be a large conglomerate that manages tens or even hundreds of hotels under multiple brands, such as Marriott or Hilton, or a small company that operates a handful of regional properties. 

Managed hotels are best for an owner who has limited hospitality experience and prefers to leave day-to-day hotel operations to seasoned professionals. Managed hotels benefit from brand awareness, economies of scale, and infrastructure offered by management companies and hotel brands, such as pre-set operational policies and procedures and access to sales & marketing networks. However, they must pay fees to the management company, typically in the form of a set monthly fee and a percentage of revenue from sales of rooms and other services. 

3) Franchise hotels

Franchise hotels operate under a franchise agreement with hotel brands. The brand doesn’t manage the hotel, but the property is licensed to use its brand name and promote itself as part of the group.

Franchise hotels are particularly attractive to those who want to benefit from the advantages of being a part of a well-known hotel group, such as name recognition and access to the group’s infrastructure, while still gaining more flexibility in managing their own business. It can be an ideal solution for professionals who have knowledge and resources but lack marketing support or franchise experience. 

4) Leased hotels 

In the leased hotel model, the owner leases the property to an operator who assumes responsibility for managing the hotel. The operator pays the owner rent and may also share a portion of revenue or profits. 

Leased hotels are a good fit for the absentee investor who prefers not to get involved in managing the property. They provide the owner with a passive income stream while transferring operational responsibilities to the operator. 

5) Hotel partnerships and REITs

If you’re not ready to take on full ownership, other options include a partnership or a REIT. In a partnership, two or more owners share ownership and responsibilities, as well as risk, expenses, and revenue. 

A REIT, or Real Estate Investment Trust, is a company that owns, operates, or finances income-generating real estate, including hotels. Investors pool their capital and spread their investment across a portfolio of properties, receiving shares in the company and income in the form of dividends. 

Hotel partnerships and REIT’s are a good fit for someone who wants to diversify investments without actively participating in the management of properties. 

How to launch an independent hotel business: 10 key steps

Let’s assume you have decided to go the independent route for your new hotel business. You will oversee the property and intend to be very involved in management and operations. Now, how do you launch your own hotel business?

One of the first priorities of a start-up business is to define long-term goals. Do you intend to hold on to the property for life and pass it on to future generations? Or do you anticipate selling it in ten to 20 years? Would you like to build a portfolio of hotels or hospitality businesses? 

While you don’t have to answer these questions right away, it’s a good idea to have a long-term game plan in mind as you go through the following 10 steps to launching an independent property. 

1) Decide whether to build or buy 

Deciding whether to design and construct a hotel from the ground up or purchase an existing hotel is an essential first step because it will help determine your path to ownership. Let’s review the pros and cons of each option. 

Option 1: Building

If you decide to build a hotel, you can design the exact property you have in mind and maybe have always dreamed about – notwithstanding any building restrictions. But remember that building a hotel can be a long, drawn-out process. You will have to find an available location, negotiate a price for the land, work with an architect and interior designer, and get building permits, along with numerous other hoops to jump through. There is also the risk of cost overruns and delays in construction and acquiring permits. 

How much money will you need? According to a 2021 study from HVS , the average costs per room, or “key,” of developing the main categories of hotels in the U.S. are estimated as follows.

• Limited-service hotel: $146,910 
• Midscale extended stay hotel: $154,502
• Select-service hotel: $245,238
• Full-service hotel: $477,058
• Luxury hotel: $805,010

Generally, the higher the caliber of the property, the more money required to build it. The objective will be to recoup the costs by charging higher room rates, meals, and ancillary services . 

Option 2: Buying

If you choose to buy an existing property , you will have to find one that is for sale, well-located, the right property type, and affordable. And then, you may have to undergo property upgrades or renovations. 

If the property is well-run and has a good reputation , you will benefit from positive awareness and built-in guest loyalty . However, if it has a bad reputation, you will need to strategically announce new ownership and quickly build a positive reputation. 

Generally, purchasing an existing hotel involves less risk because you can inspect the building and review the property’s performance history. The turnaround time between purchase and the opening date should be much shorter, too, meaning you can start earning a return on your investment more quickly. 

In summary, for first-time hotel owners, buying an existing property may be a safer route. Whether you’re building or purchasing, keep in mind that it’s all about location, location, location! Hotels close to a city center, convention center, beach, shopping center, attractions, and landmarks are a bigger draw for travelers than those in remote locations.

Marco Leibundgut, Founder of the Bogentrakt Hostel in Chur, Switzerland, fell somewhere in the middle of building and buying when he turned a former prison located in Chur’s historical city center into a hostel. He spent three years rebuilding and renovating, which was quite a challenge with the small prison cells. He likes to say that his team “brought freedom back into this former prison.”

2) Analyze the local market 

Once you have chosen a location, you will want to analyze the local market. How strong is the demand for hotel rooms in the area? How are similar hotels performing? Are there seasonal ups and downs? And what kind of economic development is expected in the coming years?

With a clear picture of the local market, you can decide what kind of property is missing and is likely to perform well. Now you can:

• Choose the type of hotel. Will it be a luxury, midscale, economy, or extended-stay hotel? Will it be a boutique hotel, inn, bed and breakfast, guest house, hostel, apartment hotel, or a hybrid concept?
• Decide how big it will be. Will it be a large hotel or a small hotel? What number of rooms will it have? What facilities will you offer, such as a restaurant, bar, spa, pool, fitness room, concierge, golf, function space, etc.?
• Choose the concept or niche. Will it have a theme? How will the design and ambiance be? What unique features or experiences will attract travelers? Will you offer a unique concept like coliving, net zero, or hybrid hospitality? 

Now more than ever, a hotel’s uniqueness really matters. Cloudbeds’ Lodging Report found a shift towards experience-driven travel, with travelers prioritizing properties that focus on enhancing the guest experience and satisfying travelers’ social, environmental, and economic needs. 

• Zero Box Lodge in Coimbra, Portugal, offers capsule-style rooms designed as minimalist wooden boxes in a shared dorm with a private bathroom.
• At Matices Hotel de Barracas in Tequila, Mexico, guests stay in barrel-shaped tequila rooms surrounded by an agave field. 
• At The Pad in Colorado, USA, in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, guests can choose from micro rooms, shared dorms, or private group rooms.

3) Commission a hotel feasibility study

Once you have conducted your own market analysis, it’s time to hand things over to a professional real estate appraiser to conduct a feasibility study . A feasibility study is an analysis of a hotel building project to determine its potential as a sustainable and viable financial investment. 

Typically, a feasibility study analyzes the property’s location, the market, demographics, and economic conditions, including site size, visibility, access, construction regulations, and competitive landscape. It also estimates costs, revenue, and returns on investment for the intended holding period. 

Generally, a project is determined to be feasible if its projected economic value is estimated to be greater than its costs, generating the required ROI. If the project is not feasible, pursuing it may not be recommended. In either case, if the purchaser wishes to move forward with the project, the lender, bank, and business partners (if applicable) will request to review the feasibility study or may conduct one on their own. 

4) Create your hotel business plan 

Whether you’re purchasing or building a hotel, get ready for paperwork. Here are a few of the documents you’ll need to prepare. 

• Business plan. A hotel business plan identifies the hotel’s goals, objectives, business needs, and strategies for success. It includes an executive summary with details of the business concept, market research, investments required, and a roadmap for building and operating the business. This is an essential document for obtaining financing from potential investors. 
• Operational plan. The operational plan outlines the strategies, procedures, and guidelines for managing the hotel successfully. It includes the operational structure, staffing, seasonal patterns, service standards, commercial strategies, food & beverage operations, property maintenance, financial management, and quality assurance, among other details.
• Financial plan. This document outlines the hotel’s investment requirements, funding sources, financial goals, projections, and strategies for achieving the projections. It includes details about projected startup costs, operating costs, revenue, cash flow, and profitability, providing a roadmap for financial performance. It contains metrics like expected occupancy rate, average daily rate (ADR), and revenue per available room (RevPAR).
• Marketing plan . This document outlines planned marketing strategies, including branding, positioning, key value propositions, target markets (leisure vs. business travelers), and competitive landscape ( SWOT analysis ). It outlines strategies for pricing and promotions, marketing assets like photography, videos, and collateral, and planned activities on marketing channels, including the hotel website, paid media, online travel agencies (OTAs), public relations, social media, and online review sites. See sample hotel marketing plan templates here. 

In an  episode of The Turndown , Asa Firestone, CEO and Co-Founder of A-Lodge , an adventure lodging company in Colorado, says his biggest piece of advice for new hoteliers is

5) Complete the paperwork: registrations, permits, and licenses

But wait, there’s more paperwork. As a new hotel owner, you must submit a host of applications for permits and licenses. These may vary by region and property type but typically include business registration and license forms, trademark applications, operations permits, tax registration forms, health and safety compliance forms, insurance coverage, and employment documentation. 

6) Source hotel equipment, decor, and suppliers

Next, you’ll need to decide how to furnish your property, referred to in finance as FF&E: furnishings, fixtures, and equipment. This will require deciding how to appoint guestrooms, public areas, and back-of-house areas like the kitchen, administrative offices, and staff communal areas. 

Will you purchase everything new, have it custom-built, or source second-hand? If you’re taking over an existing hotel, many of these items might already be in place but may need to be refurbished or replaced. To purchase FF&E, you will need to set up relationships and accounts with suppliers and establish credit. Choose wisely, as good suppliers can help you save costs and assure quality and expediency for years to come.

When refurbishing Bogentrakt, Marco decided to leave some of the original details from the prison, including the doors and a few bars but to make it more comfortable “utilized local carpenters to make the beds and hired a local street artist to paint murals throughout the property.” As part of his sustainability efforts, Marco wanted to keep his furnishings as local as possible and decided upfront that they would not utilize single-use plastics in their shampoos and soaps. 

7) Hire the right hospitality team

As you approach the opening date, you will need to start building your operating team. Typically, the higher the position is on the organizational chart, the further out you will need to hire them. This begins with your management team, such as the hotel manager, financial controller, human resources manager, director of sales and marketing, revenue manager, chef, and restaurant manager. Kristy says that for managerial positions, “they try to find people with mid-level experience who are eager to learn and grow with the property.” 

Closer to the opening date, you will need to hire and train hotel staff for the front desk, guest services, housekeeping, kitchen, banquets, administration, and other departments on the property. 

New business owners should be aware of the current staffing shortages in the industry. In an October 2022 poll from the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) , 87% of respondents indicated they were experiencing a staffing shortage, 36% severely so. Therefore, ensure that you’re allowing more time to hire, have a retention strategy, and are thinking of ways to utilize technology to reduce the strain on staff. Victor says something that works for them has been implementing a bonus structure where if the business does well, their general managers receive a share as an incentive to keep staff engaged in the business.

Marco has taken a unique approach to hiring and compensation at Bogentrakt by paying all his employees the same wage, regardless of their role. He says,

Marco also cross-trains employees so that a housekeeper, for example, can hop on the system and check a guest in if the front desk agent happens to be on break. 

8) Choose the right hotel technology 

Technology forms the foundation of a highly efficient hotel, so making the right investment decisions is critical. In addition to keeping the lights on, the kitchen operating smoothly, and guests connected to wifi and entertainment, you will need software to streamline and automate operations, sales & marketing, revenue management , and food & beverage functions. William Lake , Co-Founder of Olive & Lake , a Hotel Consultation & Digital Marketing Agency, recommends to sell rooms effectively online,

To reduce technology costs and centralize operations, more hotels are shifting to a cloud-based, integrated hospitality platform model that consolidates all core software under one technology provider and allows additional software to be connected via API (application programming interface). By housing hardware, software, and data off-premise, a cloud-based system saves hotel owners from paying expensive upfront technology costs and helps provide guests with a seamless experience.  

As a new hotelier, you have the advantage of choosing leading technology off the bat, giving your property the best shot at success and room to grow and evolve over time without having to switch solutions. Sebastien Olive , Co-Founder of Olive & Lake, says that “it’s often difficult for new hoteliers to know what solution is best for them; we always advise clients to find something which will help them save time, improve the guest experience, and increase revenue.”

9) Activate marketing & distribution channels

As your opening date nears the typical traveler booking window, you will want to ramp up marketing and distribution activities. Kristy says, “you need visibility anywhere that a traveler may be searching – on organic and paid channels.” This includes:

• Listing on various OTAs. Listing on big OTAs like Booking.com and Expedia, as well as on smaller, regional, and specialty OTAs such as Airbnb, Hostelworld, or Despegar. Marco has attracted a wide range of guests thanks to being active on multiple channels. He says, “we can set up all different promotions through these channels to attract a really good mix of guests.”
• Ensuring your hotel website is set up and ready to take reservations via your booking engine. William from Olive & Lake stresses the importance of a website for new hotels saying that “a professionally designed website is vital as it serves as a platform for commission-free direct bookings, increases profitability, and helps to enhance brand identity.”
• Creating a Google Business Profile , a listing on Tripadvisor, and listings on other applicable review sites and online directories.
• Launching a digital marketing strategy such as advertising on Google Ads, metasearch engines, or Facebook and Instagram.
• Building an email database of prospective guest segments and an email marketing strategy to inform them of the opening date and other news. 
• Working with a PR agency , local tourism partners, and your local destination marketing organization (DMO) to help spread the word.

Kristy and Victor urge new hoteliers to consider working with a digital marketing agency or service . Victor says,

• The Big Book of OTAs. A guide for hoteliers to top distribution channels, including a recipe for the ideal channel mix, a list of top-performing OTAs in your region, and a directory of over 75 OTAs.
• More Reservations, Happier Guests. The ultimate guide for the modern hotelier, a deep dive into the fundamentals of running a successful lodging business, from technology to guest service to data analytics.

10) Prepare for the grand opening

At last, the big day is about to arrive! Hotel openings are notoriously hectic and full of surprises, so you will want to be uber-organized and level-headed. A pre-opening checklist and frequent meetings and check-ins with your team will help ensure everything is done on time.

How will you acknowledge the opening? Quietly, or by throwing a lavish opening party? An event can be a great way to create excitement and build word-of-mouth, especially if you invite media, an official photographer, local businesses, travel agents, tourism partners, and social media influencers – all the people who can help spread the word and get heads into beds. But it’s a good idea to wait a few weeks to throw a party to ensure the hotel is fully operational, staff are well trained, and any wrinkles have been ironed out.

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How to Start a Hotel Business: Everything You Need to Know

Wondering how to start a hotel business? You’re not alone. One of the first-ever hotels , as we’ve come to know them, was started in Exeter, England in 1768. Today, the industry has skyrocketed to be part of one of the largest in the world.  But dreaming of starting a hotel business and actually doing it are two completely different things. That's where we come in. 

In this guide, we’ll teach you how to start a hotel business with step-by-step instructions, expert advice, and actionable tips. Keep reading to discover the fundamentals all hotel businesses need to succeed.

The steps we cover in this guide:

• Step 1: Find a market need
• Step 2: Craft your strategic goals
• Step 3: Run the numbers
• Step 4: Review financing options
• Step 5: Do your paperwork
• Step 6: Hire and train your team
• Step 7: Draft a marketing plan
• Step 8: Launch your hotel business

Discover how to start a hotel business in 8 steps:

Step 1: find a market need..

The first and most important step when learning how to start a hotel business is to gain a thorough understanding of the hospitality industry worldwide, as well as in your location. To get started, find your favorite hotel news sources , then set aside time each day or week to stay informed. Once you have some familiarity with the industry, it’s time to dive into the market research for your hotel.

Let us help you start your hotel business

Cvent's resources library is a great place to start. It's where you can read the latest news, thought leadership, and best practices from a wide variety of industry experts. The goal of your industry research is to get a clear idea of whether you can be competitive in your market. Also, what characteristics your hotel will need in order to succeed. 

Rather than starting with an idea and making the research fit, try to find an area of need in your market. What audiences are underserved? Where is demand outpacing supply? What does your location need in terms of hospitality and accommodation?

To give you a good understanding of where you’ll fit in, your market research should include:

• Property type. All hotels are not built the same. The industry is made up of resorts, spas, airport hotels, all-inclusives, hostels, boutiques, and many other property types. Determine what property type you plan to offer and what other options in that category exist in your location.
• Hotel size. Closely related to your property type is the hotel size. How many guest rooms will you offer, and how does that compare to your competitors?
• Star rating. What level of service and hotel amenities do you plan to offer?
• Location. What region will you operate in? Is demand increasing in the area? What location amenities, like airports, beaches, or event venues , will you be in close proximity to?
• Brand affiliation. Will you be a part of a larger brand’s umbrella? Being affiliated with a brand can help with marketing , business intelligence, pricing, and audience targeting.
• Extra amenities. What services or amenities are important for hotels of your type and star rating in your location? Things like free Wi-Fi, meeting space, a pool, or wedding services  are all important, depending on your target audience.
• Guest demographics. How would you define the types of guests who may frequent your location? What is the purpose of travel, and what are some common characteristics of these travelers? Knowing whether you are targeting business travelers, families, couples, solo travelers, retirees, or other demographic groups will help you to craft your marketing plan and hotel concept.

All of this research should give you a good idea of your main competitors and target audience. Those two pieces of information will determine everything else about your property, from budget and financing to marketing and daily operations. Spend time on this step to make sure you’ve found a true need in the market. You’ll be better prepared for success.

You can utilize tools like Cvent's Hotel Business Intelligence™ Software Solutions to provide you with the transformative business insights needed to conduct your market research and benchmark against the competition.

Step 2: Craft your hotel's strategic goals.

Once you have an understanding of market needs, you’ll need to create a smart solution to fill that gap. Your unique combination of amenities, concept, decor, marketing, location, and services can help you stand out from the crowd and capture market share if you approach it strategically.

Consider how you’ll approach pricing, revenue management , sustainability, customer satisfaction, events, and other market needs when crafting your goals. As with all goals, they should be S.M.A.R.T - specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-based. According to the Naples Hotel Group , an expert hotel development firm, some of the best goals a hotel owner can focus on include: 

• Measuring and increasing customer satisfaction.
• Creating a solid revenue management system.
• Building a strong online reputation.
• Attending at least one hotel industry conference .
• Considering working with a consulting firm to bypass the common roadblocks new hotel owners face.

Make sure the needs of the market and your target audience, along with your business needs, help determine your goals. This will ensure that everything you do helps your customers, as well as your bottom line.

You can use a hotel business plan template to outline the results of your research and planning, including your competitive advantage, goals, and your plan to get those results.

Step 3: Run the numbers.

With your goals and plan in place, it’s time to run the numbers to make sure you'll be profitable. Using your market research, you can estimate key factors like room pricing, vacancy rates, RevPAR (revenue per available room), and operating costs. A basic overview of hotel finances will help you hire the right revenue manager and sales team later on. The two key areas to focus on are profitability and any external factors that may affect your hotel business. You’ll also need to estimate initial costs for your hotel business. This includes startup and hiring costs, licensing, permits, construction, renovations, and your first year of operations.

Set up a few scenarios in your forecasting to see how key decisions affect the potential profitability of your business. For instance, do you want to buy or build? Buying into a franchise or taking over an existing hotel building has lower startup costs, unless you have to renovate extensively. But it also requires you to establish your new hotel identity, which can be a challenge depending on the current state of the business. On the other hand, building a hotel, while usually considerably more expensive upfront, can provide a solution to a lack of available buildings and can be more lucrative in the long run. 

Step 4: Review financing options for your hotel business.

Once you decide on the right financial plan for your business, you’re ready to fund it. There are a number of available options for financing your hotel business. Jim Pendergast, Senior Vice President and General Manager of altLINE , discussed this topic in a recent interview with Cvent.

“It's important to understand the full scope of financing options available for your hotel's funding," he said. "Generally, you have two commercial financing categories when opening your hotel: traditional credit or specialty credit.

With traditional credit lines, you receive financing based on long-term assets. These are things like real estate owned by your hotel as well as cash flow projections and calculations submitted during underwriting. Lenders review these assets before awarding your loan.

With specialty credit, you'll receive financing or credit lines based on near-term assets. This might be hotel equipment or invoices from accounts receivable. The idea is these backings are more liquid than what's needed in traditional lending.

Both traditional and specialty financing are appropriate vehicles for hotels depending on your capital needs. However, the larger and more established your hotel franchise, the more specialty lending could make ongoing sense. This is because large hotels manage significant account receivables operations. 

Consider the amount of credit card transactions that must be administered. Also, hospitality-related vendor operations happening within the establishment. The larger your AR activities, the more something like AR-based asset lending and similar specialty lending might benefit you.”

Step 5: Do your paperwork.

There are many important legal, regulatory, and insurance requirements to fulfill in order to establish any new business. Your hotel business is no different. 

Consult with your legal, insurance, accounting, and operations teams to determine the requirements for your location. At a minimum, you’ll need to set up a business structure and get business insurance. You will also likely need building or renovation permits, hotel licensing, and licensing for serving food and alcoholic beverages. There will also be a number of health and safety requirements as you complete your building or renovation process. 

All of this paperwork is not the motivating factor for getting into the hospitality industry, but it is important. Work with your team to check requirements at the local, state, and federal level. Additionally, keep on top of the process throughout so you don’t have to repair costly mistakes later.

Modern hotel management begins here

Step 6: Hire and train your hotel team.

A business is only as good as the team members that contribute to its success. By hiring great employees at all levels, you’ll set yourself up to deliver value to your guests and become a market leader.

Many hotels opt to hire for executive and departmental positions first, setting the tone and direction. These leaders can then identify what they want to see within their teams and how many staff members they need. Each team should identify the roles and skills they’re looking for, as well as developing a plan to reach and source great new hires.

Make sure that your application and interview processes are easy for candidates so that you don’t introduce needless friction. Find ways to communicate your core mission, values, and approach to this new business throughout the hiring process. This will help you attract candidates who share your vision.

Once you’ve hired a great team, take the time to onboard and train them. This is an incredibly important step that will help everyone in the long run. Any employees who will interact with guests should receive extra training on customer service and guest relations so that they’re ready to lend a helping hand, regardless of whether it’s in their job descriptions.

Focus from the beginning on becoming the employer of choice in your market. You’ll attract a stellar team that’s ready to help you become a market leader.

Step 7: Draft a marketing plan.

You’re now ready to share your hotel concept with the world. Well in advance of opening, you’ll need to spread the word and set yourself up for a profitable launch. 

Your hotel marketing plan is an important part of your overall business strategy . It guides your decision-making on decor, daily operations, communications, customer service, and more. 

Think back to the target audience that you identified in your market research. Using that initial audience, you can now conduct more in-depth customer research to determine who your customers are. Also, where you’ll find them, how you’ll communicate with them, and how they define value.

Hotel marketing made simple

Hotel marketing expert and Co-Founder of Saffron Key, Ben Weagraff, advises that there is no one-size-fits-all plan for new hotel businesses.

“There’s a number of strategies that can work very well,” he told SiteMinder . “But they depend on the hotel itself; its digital properties (including website , email relationships , the strength of social media channels ) and what exactly the hotel is trying to do.”

He goes on to note: “However, generally these techniques present a good repeatable path towards driving high-value customers. The greatest thing about content marketing is that it is low-cost, measurable, repeatable, and it builds upon itself. Once the foundation is in place, customers roll in at increasing rates.”

If you’re looking for ideas for inspiration, check out  Marriott’s marketing strategy . Also, be sure to check out all of Cvent's hotel marketing solutions  to help guide you throughout the process.

Step 8: Launch your hotel business.

At this point, you’ve put in the work to open a profitable and high-quality hotel business for your market. You’ve got the plan and the team to make your vision a reality. Now it’s time to launch.

The goal of your launch is of course to introduce your hotel to guests. But it’s also a great opportunity to introduce yourself to the local community, key stakeholders, influencers, and potential partners. Put your best foot forward with these audiences by planning a grand opening event that reflects your mission and values.

Use event planning and diagramming tools to create your layouts, collaborate with vendors, and assign tasks to team members. As long as you focus on building relationships with your community, investors, and potential clients, your grand opening will be a success. 

Now you know how to start a hotel business using proven strategies from across the industry.

Now that you know how to start a hotel business, it's time to start thinking about reputation. Read on for  hotel reputation management tips every hotelier should know.

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• Sample Business Plans

Hotel Business Plan

Have you ever thought of owning a hotel? Great call!

Starting your own hotel business can be an exciting and rewarding venture, as the hospitality industry is booming nowadays, fueled by leisure trips and work vacations.

Whethe­r you’re planning to start a cozy bed & breakfast amenity or a luxury resort, the first thing you’ll need is a solid business plan to make it thrive.

Need help writing your plan in order?

Worry not; we’ve got you covered. This hotel business plan template will help you get started and guide you on what to write in the sections of your plan.

Sounds good? Let’s dive right in!

What Is a Hotel Business Plan?

A hotel business plan is a professional document that outlines your business idea, goals, and strategies to achieve them. Whether you’re a startup or expect to grow an existing one, you’ll need a solid business plan .

It provides a clear understanding of your hotel business, starting from its goals, target market, and service offerings to marketing strategies, financial projections, and long-term growth plans. So, it serves as a strategic blueprint for your entrepreneurial journey.

Now that you know what a hotel business plan is, let’s understand why you need one and how it can help you.

Why You Need a Business Plan for Your Hotel?

As a hotelier, having a good business plan is essential for opening and running your hotel business.

It helps you get your hotel business off the ground and make it successful, navigating all the intricacies of hotel management effectively.

Consider these several reasons why you need a business plan for your hotel:

Define your goals

While writing a business plan, you’ll need to clearly define your specific goals & objectives and the strategies you’ll use to achieve them. So, it’s like keeping a detailed map for your business.

Manage finances better

A well-prepared business plan helps you show how much money you’ll require to start and run your hotel, and how much revenue or profit you’ll earn from it. It also includes detailed budgets, expense estimates, and ongoing operational costs.

Get funding from investors or banks

A comprehensive plan is important if you need money to start and grow your business. It helps you demonstrate to the potential investors or banks that you have a solid plan for success and the potential for return on investment.

Know your competitors & customers

With thorough market research and competitive analysis, your business plan helps you identify and understand your competitors and customers. Also, you can assess the customer needs and distinguish your hotel from the competition.

Identify potential risks

An actionable plan will allow you to anticipate the potential risks and the strategies to mitigate them. This way, you can avoid critical pitfalls before they happen and save meaningful resources.

In simple terms, a business plan is not just a written document, but it’s a valuable tool for planning, managing, and growing your hotel venture.

Now without further ado; let’s explore the key components of a hotel business plan.

Key Components of a Hotel Business Plan

While writing a comprehensive business plan, you should include the following 10 key components in your hotel business plan:

1. Executive Summary

An executive summary is the first and foremost section of a hotel business plan, providing a high-level overview of your entire business strategy.

Generally, it would be written at the end once all the other sections are finalized. This is so because it highlights the most important points you mentioned in the rest of your plan.

In your executive summary, consider including the following details:

• Your business idea & goals
• Vision-mission statements
• Market opportunities
• Target audience
• Marketing efforts and USPs
• Financial outlook

In short, this section is your chance to present a persuasive and compelling snapshot of your business that impresses potential investors or readers. And ensure you keep it short and simple (2 or 3 pages).

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2. Company Overview

The company overview section provides a detailed description of your business, from its basic information (name, size, and location) to objectives.

So, it clearly explains your hotel business concept in detail and outlines the future goals that every potential investor or lender needs to know.

For instance, you may ask yourself these questions to plan this section:

• What is the size and legal structure of your hotel? (e.g., LLC, corporation, sole proprietorship, partnership)
• Who are the hotel owners or shareholders?
• What is your business’s background and founding story?
• What milestones have you achieved till now?
• What are the short-term goals and long-term objectives?

Overall, your company overview section is an in-depth understanding of your business, so make it engaging and to the point.

3. Market Analysis

The market analysis section of a business plan provides a thorough explanation of the hospitality industry based on the scale of your hotel.

So, you’ll need to conduct comprehensive market research and industry analysis to identify the market size & growth potential, target market, customer behavior, market demand, and regulatory environment.

In addition to that, you may include data on market trends that might impact your business, such as technology, politics, environmental concerns, or global health issues.

This way, you can position your business strategically and justify your hotel’s future growth in the current market.

4. Competitive Analysis

Competitive analysis is a meticulous study of your key competitors depending on where your hotel is located.

Here, you should consider including details of your direct and indirect competitors in the local market, along with their strengths & weaknesses.

This section is an important aspect of market research that helps you evaluate the competitive environment and determine what sets you apart from others. You can even explain your competitive advantages and identify your USPs.

5. Service Offerings

In this section, you should mention details of the primary services and amenities you plan to offer.

You may include different types of rooms and amenities available, any special services such as event hosting, spas, restaurants, and any unique products offered.

This will help investors understand what exactly your business offers, how much it charges, and what value it brings to the market.

6. Sales and Marketing Strategies

The sales and marketing plan outlines promotional strategies and tactics you’ll use to reach your target audiences and maximize revenue.

It involves careful consideration of several key aspects, like who you’re trying to reach, what message you want to tell them, and how you plan to attract and retain them.

A well-crafted sales and marketing plan is essential for brand awareness, revenue growth, profitability, and long-term success, as it ensures your hotel stands out and thrives in the hospitality industry.

As a hotel business owner, your strategies may include online and offline marketing or external promotional campaigns that must align with your hotel’s goals and objectives. For example:

• Unique Selling Propositions(USPs)
• Social media marketing
• Strong web presence
• Word-of-mouth promotions
• Networking with other businesses

Well, this section assists potential investors to better understand how you’ll promote your business and generate bookings.

7. Management Team

The management team section is an integral part of a hotel business plan as it introduces the hotel owners, key executives, and managers.

So, you may consider highlighting their roles and responsibilities, qualifications, industry experience, and expertise that help grow your hotel business. For easy understanding, refer to the below hotel owner profile:

Apart from that, clearly explain your compensation plan and organizational structure that will help you make better strategic decisions. You can even give brief bios of your external advisors, consultants, or board members(if any).

8. Operations Plan

The operations plan describes the day-to-day business operations and activities that keep your hotel running smoothly.

For instance, you may consider including insights into the operational structure of your hotel and details about facilities management, staffing & training, customer service policies, and administrative processes.

Additionally, you can mention any technology or systems that will be used to support hotel operations.

9. Financial Plan

Preparing a strong financial plan with realistic financial projections is very crucial in business planning. Typically, it covers the financial projections for the first few years.

Your hotel financial plan offers a detailed roadmap for the hotel’s financial future, summarizing sales & revenue projections, cash flow estimates, balance sheets, and profit & loss statements.

Besides these financial statements, you may consider adding your financial requirements, startup costs, and risk analysis & mitigation plan.

Simply put, a well-written financial plan provides a clear understanding of the ROI potential and ensures the hotel’s success and long-term sustainability.

10. Appendix

In the appendix, you can attach any supporting documents that don’t fit into specific sections but support your plan. It includes

• Market research data and surveys
• Licenses & permits
• Leases or contracts
• Resumes of key executives
• Architectural blueprint of the facility

You may also include any additional documents or attachments that your readers might use for reference.

Download Free Hotel Business Plan Template

Need extra help or any sample business plan to start writing your hotel business plan? Well, here you go; download our free hotel business plan pdf now and get started.

This advanced business plan template has been specifically designed for your hotel business. With step-by-step instructions and examples, it assists you in developing your own plan.

Simply import data into your editor and use it as a reference!

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Frequently asked questions, do i need to include financial projections in my hotel business plan.

Of course, you have to include projections in your hotel business plan. These projections help you present a complete overview of your financial strategy and the financial viability of your hotel. Also, you can show your business’s profitability to attract potential investors or financial institutions and secure funding or loans.

What marketing strategies are effective for a new hotel?

For a new hotel, these marketing strategies are the most effective ones:

• Developing and optimizing a professional website for your hotel
• Leveraging social media channels and email marketing
• Utilizing Online Travel Agencies (OTAs) for bookings
• Advertising through events or travel trade shows
• Offering loyalty or referral programs

Where can I find resources and templates for writing a hotel business plan?

Using business planning software like Upmetrics can be a good choice. It provides hundreds of business resources and a sample hotel business plan template to write your hotel business plan. Simply export the template in the editor and finish your plan in a few hours.

What tips can help secure funding for a hotel business?

If you want to secure funding for your hotel, consider following these tips:

• Writing a comprehensive business plan
• Showcasing the potential profitability of your hotel
• Reaching out to family and friends for investments
• Creating a polished & compelling pitch
• Visiting hotel industry conferences and events

About the Author

Upmetrics Team

Upmetrics is the #1 business planning software that helps entrepreneurs and business owners create investment-ready business plans using AI. We regularly share business planning insights on our blog. Check out the Upmetrics blog for such interesting reads. Read more

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How to Start a Hotel

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How To Start Your Own Hotel Business

If you’re looking to start a new hotel business, you’ve come to the right place since we’re going to show you exactly how to do it. We’ll start by sharing how to open a hotel step-by-step, then answer some frequently asked questions about running a hospitality industry business and being a successful hotel owner.

Importantly, a critical step in starting a hotel is to complete your hotel’s business plan. To help you out,   you should download Growthink’s Ultimate Hotel Business Plan Template here.

Download our Ultimate Business Hotel Plan Template here

15 Steps to Start a Hotel Business:

• Choose the Name for Your Hotel
• Develop Your Hotel Business Plan
• Choose the Legal Structure for Your Hotel
• Secure Startup Funding for Your Hotel (If Needed)
• Find a Location to Buy or Start Building Your Hotel
• Register Your Hotel with the IRS
• Open a Business Bank Account
• Get a Business Credit Card
• Get the Required Business Licenses and Permits
• Get Business Insurance for Your Hotel
• Buy or Lease the Right Hotel Business Equipment
• Develop Your Hotel Marketing Materials
• Purchase and Setup the Software Needed to Run Your Hotel
• Hire and Train Your Hotel Staff
• Open for Business

1. Choose the Name for Your Hotel

The first step to starting a successful hotel business is to choose your hotel’s name.  

This is a very important choice since your hotel name is your brand and will last for the lifetime of your hotel. Ideally, you choose a name that is meaningful and memorable. Here are some tips for choosing a name for your hotel business:

• Make sure the name is available. Check your desired name against trademark databases and your state’s list of registered business names to see if it’s available. Also check to see if a suitable domain name is available.
• Keep it simple. The best names are usually ones that are easy to remember, pronounce and spell.
• Think about marketing. Come up with a name that reflects the desired hotel identity and/or focus of your hotel.

2. Develop Your Hotel Business Plan

One of the most important steps in how to start a hotel business is to develop a hotel business plan . The process of creating your hotel business plan ensures that you fully understand your market and your business strategy. The plan also provides you with a roadmap to follow and if needed, to present to potential investors for your business.

To enhance your planning process, incorporating insights from a  sample hotel business plan  can be beneficial. This can provide you with a clearer perspective on industry standards and effective strategies, helping to solidify your own business approach.

Your hotel business plan should include the following sections:

• Executive Summary – this section should summarize your entire business plan so readers can quickly understand the key details of your hotel.
• Company Overview – this section tells the reader about the history of your hotel and what type of hotel you operate. For example, are you a boutique hotel, a bed and breakfast, or an inn?
• Industry Analysis – here you will document key information about the hotel industry. Conduct market research and document how big the industry is and what trends are affecting it.
• Customer Analysis – in this section, you will document who your ideal or target customers are and their demographics. For example, what is their income level? What amenities do they look for in a hotel? What do they find important when choosing where to stay?
• Competitive Analysis – here you will document the key direct and indirect competitors you will face and how you will build competitive advantage.
• Product : Determine and document what products/services you will offer. 
• Prices : Document the prices of your products/services.
• Place : Determine where your business will be located and how that location will help you increase sales.
• Promotions : Determine what promotional methods you will use to attract guests to your hotel.
• Operations Plan – here you will determine the key processes you will need to run your day-to-day operations. You will also determine your staffing needs. Finally, in this section of your plan, you will create a projected growth timeline showing the milestones you hope to achieve in the coming years.
• Management Team – this section details the background of your hotel’s management team.
• What startup costs will you incur?
• How will your hotel make money?
• What are your projected sales and expenses for the next five years?
• Do you need to raise funding to launch your hotel?

3. Choose the Legal Structure for Your Hotel

Next you need to choose a legal structure for your hotel and register it and your business name with the Secretary of State in each state where you operate your business.

Below are the five most common legal structures:

1) Sole Proprietorship

A sole proprietorship is a business entity in which the owner of the hotel and the business are the same legal person. The owner of a sole proprietorship is responsible for all debts and obligations of the business. There are no formalities required to establish a sole proprietorship, and it is easy to set up and operate. The main advantage of a sole proprietorship is that it is simple and inexpensive to establish. The main disadvantage is that the owner is liable for all debts and obligations of the business.

2) Partnerships

A partnership is a legal structure that is popular among small businesses. It is an agreement between two or more people who want to start a hotel business together. The partners share in the profits and losses of the business. 

The advantages of a partnership are that it is easy to set up, and the partners share in the profits and losses of the business. The disadvantages of a partnership are that the partners are jointly liable for the debts of the business, and disagreements between partners can be difficult to resolve.

3) Limited Liability Company (LLC)

A limited liability company, or LLC, is a type of business entity that provides limited liability to its owners. This means that the owners of an LLC are not personally responsible for the debts and liabilities of the business. The advantages of an LLC for a hotel business include flexibility in management, pass-through taxation (avoids double taxation as explained below), and limited personal liability. The disadvantages of an LLC include lack of availability in some states and self-employment taxes.

4) C Corporation

A C Corporation is a business entity that is separate from its owners. It has its own tax ID and can have shareholders. The main advantage of a C Corporation for a hotel business is that it offers limited liability to its owners. This means that the owners are not personally responsible for the debts and liabilities of the business. The disadvantage is that C Corporations are subject to double taxation. This means that the corporation pays taxes on its profits, and the shareholders also pay taxes on their dividends.

5) S Corporation

An S Corporation is a type of corporation that provides its owners with limited liability protection and allows them to pass their business income through to their personal income tax returns, thus avoiding double taxation. There are several limitations on S Corporations including the number of shareholders they can have among others.

Once you register your hotel, your state will send you your official “Articles of Incorporation.” You will need this among other documentation when establishing your banking account (see below). We recommend that you consult an attorney in determining which legal structure is best suited for your company.

4. Secure Startup Funding for Your Hotel (If Needed)

In developing your hotel business plan, you might have determined that you need to raise funding to launch your business. Determining whether you want to purchase and renovate or build a new structure will majorly impact when you can open your new hotel and the amount of funding you will need.

If so, the main sources of funding for a hotel to consider are personal savings, family and friends, credit card financing, bank loans, crowdfunding and angel investors. Angel investors are individuals who provide capital to early-stage businesses. Angel investors typically will invest in a hotel that they believe has high potential for growth.

5. Find a Location to Buy or Start Building

Having the right space is important for your hotel and choosing the best location can have a major impact on your business.

To find the right space, consider:

• How many rooms will your hotel have?
• What are the zoning requirements for hotels in your area?
• Is the local market a good match for your target customers?

If you plan to build a new structure for your hotel, you will also need to work with architects to establish a timeline and determine construction costs.

6. Register Your Hotel with the IRS

Next, you need to register your business with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) which will result in the IRS issuing you an Employer Identification Number (EIN).

Most banks will require you to have an EIN in order to open up an account. In addition, in order to hire employees, you will need an EIN since that is how the IRS tracks your payroll tax payments.

Note that if you are a sole proprietor without employees, you generally do not need to get an EIN. Rather, you would use your social security number (instead of your EIN) as your taxpayer identification number.

7. Open a Business Bank Account

It is important to establish a bank account in your hotel’s name. This process is fairly simple and involves the following steps:

• Identify and contact the bank you want to use
• Gather and present the required documents (generally include your company’s Articles of Incorporation, driver’s license or passport, and proof of address)
• Complete the bank’s application form and provide all relevant information
• Meet with a banker to discuss your business needs and establish a relationship with them

8. Get a Business Credit Card

You should get a business credit card for your hotel to help you separate personal and business expenses.

You can either apply for a business credit card through your bank or apply for one through a credit card company.

When you’re applying for a business credit card, you’ll need to provide some information about your business. This includes the name of your business, the address of your business, and the type of business you’re running. You’ll also need to provide some information about yourself, including your name, Social Security number, and date of birth.

Once you’ve been approved for a business credit card, you’ll be able to use it to make purchases for your hotel. You can also use it to build your credit history which could be very important in securing loans and getting credit lines for your business in the future.

9. Get the Required Business Licenses and Permits

Every state, county and city has different business license and permit requirements.

Nearly all states, counties and/or cities have license requirements for hotel, including:

• Business License :  A general business license is required for all businesses, including hotels. The cost of a business license varies depending on the state, county and/or city in which the hotel is located.
• Occupancy Permit :   An occupancy permit, also called a Certificate of Occupancy, is required before you can open your hotel to the public.
• Alcohol Licenses :  If you plan to serve alcohol at your hotel, you will need to obtain the appropriate license from the state in which your hotel is located.
• Sales Tax License :  You will need to obtain a sales tax license in order to collect sales tax from your customers.
• Food Service License : If you plan to serve food at your hotel, you will need to obtain a food service license.
• Fire Department Approval :  Most hotels are required to have approval from the local fire department before they can open to the public.

Be sure to check local government guidelines to determine which licenses and permits hotels are required to obtain in your area.

10. Get Business Insurance for Your Hotel

The right business insurance is important to protect your new hotel. Business insurance policies that you should consider for your hotel include:

• General Liability Insurance: This insurance protects your hotel business from third-party claims of bodily injury, property damage, and personal injury that occur on your premises or are caused by your business.
• Workers’ Compensation Insurance: If you have employees, you may be required to have workers’ compensation insurance. This insurance protects your employees if they are injured or become ill as a result of their job.
• Property Insurance: This insurance protects your hotel property from loss or damage due to fire, theft, vandalism, and other covered events.

11. Buy or Lease the Right Hotel Business Equipment

Beyond the furniture and equipment you will need in each room, opening a hotel will also require some business equipment, including:

• A reservation system to take bookings
• A property management system (PMS) to manage rooms and rates
• A booking engine if you want to accept online bookings
• Rooms keys and/or access cards
• Reception furniture

12. Develop Your Hotel Business Marketing Materials

Marketing materials will be required to attract and retain customers to your hotel.

The key marketing materials you will need are as follows:

• Website : Likewise, a professional hotel website provides potential customers with information about the services you offer, your company’s history, and contact information. Importantly, remember that the look and feel of your website will affect how customers perceive you.
• Social Media Accounts : establish social media accounts in your company’s name. Accounts on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and/or other social media networks will help customers and others find and interact with your hotel.
• Logo : Spend some time developing a good logo for your hotel. Your logo will be printed on company stationery, business cards, marketing materials and so forth. The right logo can increase customer trust and awareness of your brand.

13. Purchase and Setup the Software Needed to Run Your Hotel

Most hotel businesses need a few types of software to run successfully.

First, you will need a PMS. This is software that helps you manage reservations, check-ins, and other aspects of your operations. Some popular options include Cloudbeds, Oracle Hospitality, and HOTELTIME.

You will also want to have a customer relationship management (CRM) system. This software helps you track interactions with customers, manage customer data, and market to potential guests. Many hotels use programs such as Experience Hotel, Oracle NetSuite, and Salesforce.

Additionally, you need to use accounting software such as Quickbooks or M3 to manage your hotel’s expenses.

Research the software that best suits your needs, purchase it, and set it up.

14. Hire & Train Your Hotel Staff

The quality of your hotel staff can make or break your business. You need to take the time to find, interview, and hire the right people.

Start by writing job descriptions for the positions you need to fill. Then, post the job openings online and in places where potential employees are likely to see them. Once you have a pool of candidates, conduct phone and in-person interviews to narrow down your choices.

Finally, once you have selected the employees you want to hire, provide training on your hotel’s policies and procedures. Additionally, give them a tour of the property and introduce them to other staff members. It helps to build out a strong sales team to prospect new business and nurture customer loyalty.

15. Open for Business

You are now ready to host a grand opening for your hotel. Make sure to include your grand opening event in your marketing plan and promote your hotel launch to the right target audience.

If you follow the steps above, you should be in a great position to build a successful business and know everything you need about how to start a hotel business. Below are answers to frequently asked questions that might further help you.

How to Finish Your Hotel Business Plan in 1 Day!

How to open a hotel faqs, is it hard to start a hotel.

Starting any business has its challenges and opening a hotel does require some planning and preparation. The biggest challenges in owning a hotel are securing funding for your new hotel, finding a great location to buy or build, and setting up systems that help your hotel achieve operational efficiency.

As with starting any business, having a good business idea, doing market research, and getting support from experts in the industry increase your chance of success.

How Can I Own a Hotel With No Experience?

If you have no experience in the hotel industry, you will need to find a good hotel management company. A hotel management company can help you with all aspects of starting and running your hotel. They will also be able to provide you with the necessary training.

What Types of Hotels Are Most Profitable?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. The type of hotel that is most profitable will depend on the location of your hotel and what is of value to the market in that area. A boutique hotel might be a huge success in a small city, while a family-friendly hotel could make more money when placed near a theme park. It is important to do market research to determine which type of hotel can be a profitable business in your area.

How Much Does It Cost To Start a Hotel?

Again, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. The cost of starting a hotel will depend on a number of factors, such as the location of your hotel, the type of hotel, and the level of service you offer. You will also have different upfront costs depending on whether you are building a new hotel or purchasing an existing structure.

With regards to building costs or buying an existing property, this varies tremendously based on the type of hotel (e.g., budget vs luxury) and hotel size (e.g., 5 rooms vs 500 rooms).

How Does a Hotel Make Money?

A hotel makes money by charging guests for the use of the hotel's facilities. The amount charged will depend on the type of hotel, the location, and the level of service offered. Beyond charging for guest rooms, hotels may also make money from additional amenities, such as in-house restaurants, room service, and high-speed internet access.

Is Owning a Hotel Profitable?

Owning a hotel business can be profitable, but the amount of profit is highly-dependent on a number of factors, such as the location of your hotel. You can improve the profitability of your hotel by offering a higher level of service, attracting more guests, and keeping your expenses low.

How Much Does a Hotel Owner Make?

Hotel owners, operators and executives receive varied pay amounts based on the success of their hotel. According to Glassdoor, the typical Starwood Hotels & Resorts Vice President salary is $244,472, which is 45% above the national average.

What Are the Key Financial Metrics and Costs in the Hotel Market?

The key financial metrics in the hotel market are as follows:

Industry profit is measured as earnings before interest and taxes. Industry profits have averaged 15.5% of sales in recent years.

The industry’s major expenses are purchases and cost of sales, such as bedding and room supplies. Many hotels also provide meals and liquor, either in individual rooms or in separate restaurants or dining areas.

Last year, purchases were estimated to account for 29.9% of an average operator’s revenue.

Labor is required in many aspects of hotel management, from front-of-house activities, such as front desk, concierge and related activities, to all back-of-house activities, including general management, accounting, marketing, room cleaning and servicing the kitchens, bars and restaurants.

Many hotel jobs have a low skill and training requirement, and employees can be hired on a part-time or casual basis. Because of this practice, many hotels have high staff turnover.

Therefore, there is a constant need for recruitment and training, which can be costly. Some hotel owners and operators have outsourced part of their staff services to specialist staff-recruitment agencies to lower recruitment costs.

Last year, industry wages accounted for approximately 25.7% of total industry revenue.

Rent and Utilities

Rent and utilities on average comprise 7.6% of hotel revenue.

Other Expenses

Marketing expenses and royalty fees are another significant cost for those industry participants that operate on a franchise basis. Franchisees typically pay an annual fee of 4.0% to 6.0% of total revenue.

Other major operational expenses include repairs and maintenance, promotional costs, commission paid to agents, bookings and internet fees, accounting and legal costs, motor vehicle expenses, stationery and printing, insurance and other administrative and overhead costs.

Why Do Hotels Fail?

Hotels can fail for a number of reasons, including high expenses and low occupancy rates. Hotels can also fail due when owners misunderstand the market in an area and target the wrong customers or fail to do adequate research into hotel industry trends that impact their business.

Often, hotels begin to struggle due to poor management decisions that negatively impact the guest experience. Closely monitoring your spending and making sure your staff is performing well both go a long way toward making your hotel succeed.

How Big Is the Hotel Industry?

According to IbisWorld, there are 74,372 hotels, and the hotel industry generated $166.5 billion in revenue in the United States alone last year. This represents an annual growth rate of 4.7% over the past 5 years.

Industry profits were $26.0 billion, and wages paid to hotel employees totaled $42.7 billion.

What Are the Key Segments of the Hotel Market?

 A hotel is an establishment that provides lodging and, often times, meals and other services for travelers and other paying guests. A motel, on the other hand, provides lodging for motorists in rooms usually having direct access to an open parking area.

A particular hotel or motel can be classified by a number of characteristics, including whether it provides full or limited service, whether or not it is located in a metropolitan area, the state or region in which it is located, its price or rate level, the number of rooms, and whether it is independent or part of a chain operation.

Hotels and motels can also be segmented by room price rates. The establishments with room rates in the highest 30 percentile that are located in local or metropolitan markets are classified as upscale or luxury. The middle 30 percentile is classified as mid-priced, and the lowest 40 percentile as either economy or budget.

Overall, sales from hotels account for 87.4% of industry revenue and 82.0% of industry employment, though they account for only 44.0% of industry establishments.

Hotels that consist of 25 or more rooms provide 83.6% of industry revenue (with 62.7% of industry revenue coming from guest room rentals, 12.5% coming from food and alcohol sales, 4.2% coming from conference and meeting rooms and 4.2% coming from other charges), while hotels that offer fewer than 25 rooms only constitute 3.8% of industry revenue.

Motels provide about 12.6% of industry revenue. The relative proportion of revenue from each of these segments has been relatively stable over the past five years, although motels experienced some growth at the expense of higher-priced hotels during the recession.

What External Factors Affect the Hotel Market?

A number of factors affect the performance of the hotel industry. These drivers include:

• Domestic Trips By US Residents : Trends in domestic travel, especially for business travellers, and the total nights spent away from home directly affect demand for accommodation. As the number of trips made by US citizens rises, demand for hotels and motels to house them increases.
• Consumer Confidence Index : Changes in consumer confidence influence decisions that individuals make concerning expenditure on entertainment and traveling, particularly during a recession.
• Consumer Spending : Consumer spending levels have a direct effect on travel demand. When consumers are spending more overall, they are more likely to spend some of their money on travel and accommodations.
• Inbound Trips By Non-US Residents : Trends in international visitor arrivals and their lengths of stay influence demand for accommodation. A rise in inbound trips positively affects demand for hotels and motels.

Who Are the Key Competitors in the Hotel Market?

 As specified above, there are 74,372 hotels in the United States.

The market leaders (in terms of market share) include Hilton Worldwide Holdings Inc. (13.7%), Marriott

International Inc. (13.5%) and InterContinental Hotels Group PLC (7.5%).

The rest of the market is comprised of many smaller players.

Who Stays in Hotels?

Recent demographics show that totel guests are comprised of: 

• Domestic leisure travelers: 48.5%
• Business travelers: 24.0%
• International leisure travelers: 14.0%
• Meetings, events and incentive travelers: 13.5%

What Are the Keys to Launching a Successful Hotel?

Starting a hotel requires careful choice of a location and strategy, a business plan, access to considerable financial resources, and a customer service mindset.

1) Location and Opportunity

The location for your hotel is highly linked with the opportunity that you feel there is for your hotel. In the right location, where competitors are not fulfilling all customer needs, a hotel can thrive. However, in a beautiful neighborhood that happens to have heavy competition from existing hotels, success may not be so forthcoming. Likewise, if the neighborhood leaves too much to be desired, you may not be able to price the rooms low enough to encourage travelers to stay at your hotel, even if you are within walking distance of key attractions.

2) Strategy

The next step is to know how customers will answer the question “why my hotel?” How will you tailor your services to the customers you want to attract, whether they are families with kids, couples on romantic vacations, businesspeople, or international tourists? Consider the combination of amenities, atmosphere, location, and services that will be right for your customers. Always keep in mind that strategy means making tradeoffs – it is almost impossible to be everything to everyone and succeed. You might have to forgo a certain customer target market in order to make your service offering perfect for your most desired customers.

3) Planning

A hotel business plan is necessary not only for you to think through how you will take on the opportunity, but for you to convince any investor or lender that you have the ability to do so. No savvy investor will be attracted by a lack of planning. There is no excuse to not create a plan with the wealth of information available on writing business plans and even business plan templates tailored to the hotel business sector.

4) Fundraising

Whether you buy an existing hotel, build one from scratch, or renovate a building into a hotel, you will need millions of dollars to invest. Assuming you do not have this money, you will need to seek bank loans and/or angel investment in your hotel. As you will be working with considerable assets, dependable and experienced legal and accounting help is a must as you create deals with investors.

5) Hospitality Mindset

Finally, you must have an ingrained sense of how you want your guests to be treated so that you can instill this mindset in your top management and they can, in turn, teach this to the staff. Staying at a hotel can be stressful and uncomfortable, and guests demand the highest attention to their needs or they will have no problem complaining loudly and publicly. If employees sense you have higher motives than customer satisfaction, customer service may fall by the wayside and your hotel business may fail or never take off in the first place.

The first step to starting a hotel is to develop your hotel business plan . Growthink provides products and services to help you develop a professional business plan and turn your dream into reality.

Where Can I Download a Hotel Business Plan PDF?

You can download our hotel business plan PDF template here. This is a business plan template you can use in PDF format.

Additional Resources in the Hotel Market

For additional information on the hotel market, consider these industry resources:

• American Hotel & Lodging Association: ahla.com
• Hospitality Net: hospitalitynet.org
• Hotel Mavericks: www.hotelmavericks.com

OR, Let Us Develop Your Plan For You

Since 1999, Growthink has developed business plans for thousands of companies who have gone on to achieve tremendous success.

Click here to see how Growthink’s professional business plan consultants can create your business plan for you.

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• How to Create a Hotel Business Plan: Beginners Guide

November 21, 2023

Would you build a house without a blueprint?

Probably not, because it could lead to inconvenience and problems.

The same concept is genuine in the corporate world.

It would be best to have a business plan to operate in the hospitality industry. When planning to own or operate a hotel, you must include everything from the project strategy to budgeting and implementation.

As the studies show that the global hospitality industry is expected to grow to 5.8 trillion U.S. dollars in 2027 at a CAGR of 5.5%, a detailed roadmap is what you need to enter the hotel business.

A hotel business plan will keep you on track and help attract investors. Remember, it is a crucial component for planning for success .

Let’s explore the concrete steps to include in your hotel business plan.

The path starts here.

5 Key Components of a Hotel Business Plan

Having a business plan is a no-brainer.

With a solid business plan, attracting investors , staying on track, ensuring workflows are followed, and enabling you to make crucial decisions becomes more accessible.

Let’s explore the critical components of the business plan for a hotel:

1. Executive Summary

An executive summary is a quick and concise part of a business plan that provides a complete roadmap of your hotel business.

A concise business overview encapsulating visionary business goals is a strategic compass, providing a snapshot of a company’s direction and objectives.

It offers stakeholders a quick understanding of the business’s purpose and potential, aiding informed decision-making and fostering alignment with the organization’s vision.

An executive summary should include:

• Business Overview
• Vision statement
• Mission statement
• Business objectives

You must write your executive summary at the final stage of business planning , as it would help you summarize the goals and objectives of your hotel business.

2. Business Description and Concept

A business plan’s business description and concept section should clarify your mission, the goals you are looking to achieve, unique selling points, and a breakdown of shareholder involvement.

In this section, you will outline the full-service hotel’s concept , target market, unique selling points, and overall vision, which is crucial for standing out in the competitive landscape.

The hotel landscape looked very different 20 years ago; today’s market is saturated.

Therefore, defining hotel concepts around the following key elements will help.

• Positioning

Hotel concept must define how your hotel should look like, what services will be offered, how it presents and markets itself the differentiating factors, and how its staff interacts with guests. Providing this information helps establish a clear market position and enhances its chances of success.

3. Market Analysis and Competitive Landscape

A comprehensive market analysis is indispensable in a business plan. It provides vital insights into the target market, industry, competitive landscape, and consumer behavior.

Understanding hotel industry trends enables you to make informed decisions, mitigate risks, and identify market gaps and opportunities. It’s the foundation for a successful and sustainable business strategy.

Take a broad look and analyze industry trends using business models such as SWOT, Porter’s five forces framework, and PESTEL analysis.

• SWOT Analysis

A SWOT analysis will give you an in-depth analysis of the hotel industry’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats.

• Porter’s Five Forces Framework

Porter’s five forces framework helps you look beyond direct competitors when assessing strategy and, instead, consider broader environmental forces. It is best for in-depth competitor assessment and helps create a stand-out USP.

• PESTEL Analysis

PESTEL is an acronym for political, economic, social, technological, legal, and environmental. It gives a bird’s eye view of the whole environment from many different angles that one wants to check and keep track of while contemplating a business plan.

A thorough analysis can help solidify your competitive advantage and develop a contingency plan for how you will deal with your weaknesses and threats.

4. Organizational Structure and Management

An organizational structure is an integral part of the business plan as it provides an overview of the hotel’s management roles according to job responsibility and ranking.

Organizational structure enables quick decision-making , better coordination, and employee communication, enhancing productivity. It ensures the proper functioning of an organization by establishing its chain of command and workflow.

While structuring your hotel team, there are different types of organizational structures that you can choose from:

• Hierarchical

Management operational expertise is essential to ensure that each department carries out its goals to the best ability possible and handles any roadblocks that may stand in the way of business.

Let’s look at what management hierarchy looks like, practically speaking.

• Business owner
• General manager
• Assistant managers
• Department managers
• Operations staff

Detail your short and long-term operational plans and the stakeholders involved for each area. Mention efficient management practices that will help you make better strategic decisions relating to resources and make it easier to scale up your hotel business.

5. Services and Facilities

In this business plan section, you must mention all your hotel services, facilities, and guest offerings. Meeting guest expectations should be at the core of your hotel business plan.

You can enhance its appeal to potential investors and define the guest’s journey by showcasing services and facilities to meet diverse guest needs. Moreover, by outlining the services and facilities, the hotel can create a unique selling proposition and tailor its marketing efforts accordingly.

Here’s a list of standard services and facilities you can find in many hotels:

• Accommodation
• Front Desk Services
• Meeting and Event Facilities
• Recreational Facilities
• Business Services.
• Housekeeping
• Transportation Services
• Entertainment
• Concierge Services
• Childcare Services
• Pet-Friendly Services
• Special Needs Accessibility
• Luggage Storage
• Laundry and Dry Cleaning
• Room Amenities
• Spa and Wellness Services
• Emergency Services
• Wi-Fi and Internet Access

All the quality hotel amenities , services, and facilities must be mentioned in your business plan and aligned with the preferences of your target market.

Financial Projections and Funding

Establishing financial projections and identifying funding requirements and sources is fundamental to planning. They provide a roadmap for the hotel’s financial future, outlining revenue expectations, expense estimates, and profit projections.

Additionally, it offers a clear understanding of the return on investment potential, mitigating financial risks and ensuring sound financial planning for the hotel’s success and long-term sustainability.

Revenue Projections and Budgeting

Revenue projections and budgeting are essential for assessing the business’s viability, attracting investors or securing loans, and demonstrating a well-thought-out financial strategy.

Understanding the financial feasibility of the hotel business is essential to reduce or manage your business risk.

In this section, you should include the following:

• Revenue Projections
• Expense Projections
• Profit and Loss Statements
• Cash Flow Projections
• Financial Statement
• Break-Even Analysis
• Funding Requirements
• Use of Funds
• Funding Sources
• Return on Investment (ROI)
• Financial Assumptions
• Financial Contingency Plan
• Debt Repayment Plan
• Sensitivity Analysis

Financial forecasting based on sustainable budget practices will help you to decide whether a project or an investment is worthwhile by looking at its value and the minimum yield it generates. It

Funding Requirements and Investment Plan

Having an investment plan before starting the hotel business will provide a clear financial requirements roadmap, ensuring adequate capital for startup and improving ongoing operations .

Attracting investors and lenders becomes more accessible with a solid funding and investment plan, as it demonstrates financial preparedness to the investors and lenders.

Here’s how you can structure this section in your business plan:

• Startup Capital
• Working Capita
• Equity Investment
• Grants and Subsidies
• ROI Projections
• Exit Strategy
• Risk Mitigation
• Legal and Contractual Agreements

Securing hotel funding and attracting investments for your hotel becomes more accessible with a clear and well-structured plan. It instills confidence and makes your home business more attractive and feasible.

Risk Analysis and Mitigation

A Proactive approach to risk analysis and mitigation helps you develop contingency plans.

It helps mitigate operational, financial, and reputational threats , ensuring the safety and satisfaction of guests, protecting investments, and maintaining business continuity, ultimately supporting long-term profitability and success in a competitive industry.

Addressing risk mitigation strategies in the plan is crucial in creating a resilient and sustainable business model in the competitive and ever-evolving hotel industry.

To manage risks in the hotel business, you can implement the following strategies:

• Risk avoidance – For example, you may face a risk where you won’t be able to serve the customers on time due to a lack of staff. To avoid this risk, you could hire the correct number of staff in case of a seasonal rush at the hotel.
• Risk reduction – For example, you can’t serve an essential ingredient for your dish at your hotel due to seasonality issues. To avoid this risk, you must ensure inventory management practices and have connections with multiple suppliers.
• Risk transfer – For example, if you don’t have the expertise to maintain social media, you are at a loss for online opportunities. You can outsource digital marketing to an expert agency to avoid this risk.
• Risk control – For example, if you cannot achieve a certain staff performance level. To avoid this risk, you can provide on-site training and development.

The hotel business plan is committed to safeguarding investments and ensuring guest safety and satisfaction by identifying and assessing potential risks.

It also reassures investors, lenders, and stakeholders that the hotel is well-prepared to navigate unforeseen circumstances, enhancing confidence in the project’s viability.

Implementation Plan and Milestones

A strategy implementation plan is a detailed roadmap that clearly defines the steps and activities required to execute the strategy effectively.

In this section, you must present a breakdown of tasks into identifiable steps, assign tasks and responsibilities to the people involved, and create a definitive timeline for the entire project.

Operational Plan

An operational plan outlines the steps to achieve your hotel business objectives. It is helpful for investors and your employees because it pushes you to think about tactics and deadlines.

Your operations plan should be able to answer the following:

• Who – The person or departments in charge of completing specific tasks.
• What – A description of what each department is responsible for.
• Where – The information on where daily operations will be taking place.
• When –The deadlines for when the tasks and goals are to be completed.
• How much – The cost amount each department needs to complete their tasks

When creating your operational plan, consider all the activities that will help implement hotel operations, ensuring service excellence . Make sure your strategic objectives are in place and relevant.

Below is the list of the day-to-day operation plan for service delivery.

• Reception and Guest Services
• Food and Beverage Services
• Maintenance and Engineering
• Accounting and Finance
• Sales and Marketing
• Reservations and Front Desk
• Health and Safety
• Guest Relations and Services
• Room Reservations and Inventory
• Procurement and Supplies
• Efficient Staffing

Marketing and Promotion Strategy

Marketing strategy and promotion plans help hotel reach their target audience, build brand awareness, and drive sales. With it, a company may be able to compete, gain visibility, or achieve growth goals.

A well-defined marketing and promotion strategy is pivotal for revenue growth, profitability, and long-term success, ensuring that the hotel stands out and thrives in the hospitality sector.

Hotels increasingly embrace moral marketing , prioritizing sustainability, social responsibility, and ethical practices to connect with conscious consumers and create a positive impact. Include this in your business plan to manage the costs associated with green initiatives, ethical sourcing, social responsibility, and marketing to prioritize moral marketing and sustainability.

As a hotel business owner, online and offline marketing strategies must align with the hotel’s overall objectives and goals, enabling the hotel to achieve the desired operational efficiencies.

Online marketing and promotion strategies for the hotel business include:

• Search Engine Optimization (SEO)
• Pay-Per-Click Advertising (PPC)
• Social Media Marketing
• Email Marketing
• Online Travel Agencies (OTAs)
• Content Marketing
• Influencer Marketing
• Online Review Management

Offline promotion initiatives for guest attraction used by hotel business include:

• Local Event Sponsorship
• Print Advertising
• Direct Mail Marketing
• Travel Trade Shows
• Networking with Local Businesses
• Billboards and Signage

Promoting your hotel business will help you reach potential guests and give them a reason to choose your hotel over the competition, thanks to your unique value proposition.

Milestones and Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

Setting milestones and key performance indicators helps hotel businesses stay on track and focused on achieving goals. These measurements enable informed decision-making , highlight areas that require improvement, and can be instrumental in adapting strategies to market trends.

Milestones and KPIs ensure goal tracking and enable accountability and efficiency, contributing to the overall success and sustainability of the hotel business.

Following are the ways to set milestones for your hotel business:

• Revenue Growth Targets
• Occupancy Rate Goals
• Customer Satisfaction Improvements
• Expansion and Renovation Milestones
• Marketing and Advertising Milestones
• Staff Training and Development Benchmarks
• Sustainability and Green Initiatives Targets

Once you’ve identified the milestones for hotel business performance , you can define key metrics to analyze the outcomes.

Critical metrics for tracking hotel performance:

• Occupancy Rate
• Average Daily Rate ( ADR )
• Revenue per Available Room ( RevPAR )
• Gross Operating Profit per Available Room ( GOPPAR )
• Customer Satisfaction Scores
• Direct Booking Percentage

Now, as we navigate the hotel business plan, this outline will be the compass that guides your venture toward success.

Conclusion on business plan creation showcases that your vision and strategies will serve as a tool to instill confidence in investors.

This meticulous planning, coupled with your commitment, inspires investor confidence and secures the necessary support for turning your hotel dream into a prosperous reality.

Maximize your hotel business by leveraging this dynamic plan to achieve your goals.

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Hotel Business Plan Guide + Sample Plan

July 6, 2023

Adam Hoeksema

The hospitality industry offers immense potential, while some might believe that operating a hotel is straightforward, involving only accommodations and foot traffic, careful planning and meticulous execution are essential for achieving success, hence a well-structured business plan is indispensable.

Our primary expertise lies in hotel financial projection models but we understand that some of our clients require comprehensive business plans. That's why we've taken the initiative to delve into this topic and cover the following:

• Why Write a Business Plan For a Hotel?
• What to Include in a Hotel Business Plan?

Hotel Business Plan Outline

How to select a location for a hotel, how to analyze the competition for a hotel, how to create financial projections for a hotel, example hotel business plan, hotel business plan faqs, why write a business plan for a hotel.

For Hoteliers seeking financial support from investors, banks, or financial institutions, a well-structured business plan is a fundamental prerequisite. Demonstrating a thorough evaluation of the market, a clear and strategic approach, and a thoughtful assessment of potential risks and rewards is paramount to attracting the necessary funding for your venture.'

What to include in a hotel business plan?

A hotel business plan should provide investors and lenders with compelling reasons why guests will choose your hotel, demonstrate why you or your team are the ideal operators for the hotel, and present a financial projection that ensures their investment is secure. Below is a comprehensive outline of our complimentary hotel business plan template .

We suggest the following sections for your Hotel business plan

Executive Summary

Company Description

Market Analysis

Product and Service Offerings

Marketing Plan & Customer Acquisition

Operating Plan

Financial Plan

Choosing the right location for your hotel is a critical step in ensuring its success and captivating your target audience. To help you make the best decision, we present three essential points to consider when selecting a location for your hotel  Local Demand and Visitor Profile: Assess the local demand for hotel accommodations in the area. Analyze the type of visitors who frequently visit the locality, such as tourists, business travelers, or event attendees. Understanding the local visitor profile will help you tailor your hotel's offerings to meet their needs and preferences.

Proximity to Key Points of Interest: Look for a location that is in close proximity to key points of interest within the local area. This could include popular tourist attractions, convention centers, business districts, or entertainment venues. Being near such attractions increases the chances of attracting more guests and ensures a steady flow of potential customers.

Accessibility and Transportation Links : Ensure that the location is easily accessible by various modes of transportation. Consider the distance from major transportation hubs like airports, train stations, and bus terminals. Also, evaluate the availability of public transportation options nearby, as this will make it convenient for guests to travel to and from your hotel.

By focusing on these three points, you can identify a suitable local location for your hotel that caters to the specific needs of the local market and maximizes its potential for success.

There are a couple of tools that I like to use when analyzing the competition in the hotel industry. 

Ahrefs – Ahrefs will allow you to look up a competitor hotel's website, and you can see how much organic traffic they are getting and exactly what keywords are sending that traffic. For example, we can see that the Bottleworks Hotel in Indianapolis is receiving roughly 3,500 monthly visits from organic Google Search.  

We can also see what keywords are sending the most traffic to that page below:

By understanding the SEO strategies and keywords that competitor hotels are targeting, you can develop your content and marketing strategies to compete in the same spaces or identify underserved areas to capitalize on. This can assist in improving your hotel's online presence and attracting more guests through search engines.

TripAdvisor – Although mainly known as a review site, TripAdvisor can be a free and powerful tool for analyzing competition within the hotel industry. You can see guest ratings, read reviews, and understand what customers appreciate or dislike about different hotels in your area. This qualitative information can help you identify where your competitors are succeeding or failing and where you might have an opportunity to differentiate your services.

Just like in any industry, the hotel business has its own unique factors that impact financial projections, such as occupancy rates, room pricing, seasonal demand, and guest service expenditures. Utilizing a hotel financial projection template can simplify the process and increase your confidence. Creating accurate financial projections goes beyond showcasing your hotel venture's ability to generate revenue; it's about illustrating the financial roadmap to profitability and the realization of your hospitality goals.

To develop precise projections, consider the following key steps:

Estimate startup costs for your hotel business, including property acquisition or leasing, renovation or construction, furnishing and decoration, staff training, and initial marketing and branding expenses.

Forecast revenue based on projected occupancy rates, average room prices, ancillary service income (such as restaurants, spas, conference facilities), and potential growth in the customer base.

Project costs related to ongoing operations like housekeeping, food and beverage services, guest amenities, and maintenance.

Estimate operating expenses such as staff salaries, utility costs, property insurance, marketing expenses, guest support, and administrative costs.

Calculate the capital needed to launch and sustain your hotel business, covering initial expenses and providing working capital for continued growth, including funds for unforeseen challenges such as seasonal fluctuations.

While financial projections are a critical component of your hotel business plan, seek guidance from experienced professionals in the hotel industry. Adapt your projections based on real-world insights, leverage industry resources, and stay informed about hospitality trends and evolving consumer behavior to ensure your financial plan aligns with your goals and positions your hotel venture for long-term success.

Explore our Hotel Business Plan, presented below. If you prefer, you can access a downloadable Google Doc version of this hotel business plan template , allowing you to personalize and tailor it to your specific needs. Additionally, a helpful video walkthrough is available, guiding you through the process of customizing the business plan to perfectly align with your unique hotel concept.

Table of Contents

1. executive summary.

1.1 Organization Overview

1.2. Objectives

1.3. Mission Statement

2. Organization Description

2.1. Organization History

2.2. Legal Structure

2.3. Unique Value Proposition

2.4. Target Beneficiaries

3. Market Analysis

3.1. industry overview.

3.2. Collaborator and Competitor Identification

3.3. Target Beneficiaries

Key Point  1

4. Marketing and Fundraising

4.1. Strategic Plan

4.2. Program or Service Offerings:

4.4. Distribution Channels

4.5. Promotions and Fundraising

Key Point  2

5. Organizational Structure and Management

5.1. Organization’s Facility & Location

5.2. Staffing Plan and Volunteer Management

5.3. Governance, Financial Management, and Accountability

Key Point  3

6. financial plan.

6.1. Startup Costs

6.3. Expense Projections

6.4. profit and loss statement, 6.5. cash flow projections, 6.6. break-even analysis, 7. appendix.

7.1. Supporting Documents

7.2. Glossary of Term

7.3. References and Resources

Key Point  5

 1.1. company overview.

Briefly introduce the hotel's background, products or services, and target market.

      -  Example: Seaside Crest is a tropical-themed hotel located in Key West, Florida, offering a unique and luxurious experience for guests seeking a beachfront getaway.

   1.2. Objectives

Outlines the hotel's short-term and long-term goals.

        - Example:  Establish Seaside Crest as the premier destination for tropical hospitality in Key West, providing exceptional service and unforgettable experiences for our guests.

        - Example: Long-term: Expand our presence in other tropical destinations while maintaining our commitment to quality and guest satisfaction.

  1.3. Mission Statement

 Describes the hotel's purpose and core values.

        - Example:  At Seaside Crest, our mission is to create a haven of relaxation and tropical paradise for our guests. We are dedicated to delivering exceptional hospitality, breathtaking surroundings, and personalized service, ensuring that every guest's stay is a memorable one.

  1.4. Keys to Success

Highlights the factors that will contribute to the hotel's growth and success.

        - Example:  The success of Seaside Crest lies in our commitment to creating a tropical ambiance, offering top-notch amenities, providing outstanding customer service, and delivering a seamless guest experience. 

2. Company Description

   2.1. company history.

Provides context on the hotel's background and founding story.

        - Example: Seaside Crest is the brainchild of founder and hotelier, Emily Roberts, who envisioned creating a tropical paradise in Key West, Florida. With a passion for hospitality and a deep love for the coastal beauty of the region, Emily embarked on the journey of bringing Seaside Crest to life.

   2.2. Legal Structure

 Describes the hotel's legal structure (e.g., sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC, corporation).

        - Example: Seaside Crest operates as a limited liability corporation (LLC)

 2.3. Unique Selling Proposition

  Emphasizes the hotel's competitive advantage or unique offerings.

        - Example: Seaside Crest distinguishes itself by offering a one-of-a-kind tropical-themed experience, combining luxurious accommodations, breathtaking beachfront views, vibrant island-inspired decor, and personalized service. 

  2.4. Target Market

Defines the hotel's ideal customer base.

        - Example: Seaside Crest caters to discerning travelers and vacationers who seek an extraordinary beachside retreat in Key West, Florida. 

  Presents a general overview of the industry, its trends, and growth potential.

        - Example: The tropical hotel industry in Key West, Florida, is a thriving sector driven by the city's popularity as a tourist destination, the allure of its tropical climate, and the abundance of natural beauty that surrounds it.

3.2. Competitor Analysis

 Evaluates the hotel's direct and indirect competitors, as well as their strengths and weaknesses.

        - Example: Other hotels and resorts in Key West offering tropical-themed accommodations.

        - Example: Vacation rentals, bed and breakfast establishments, and boutique hotels in the area.

3.3. Target Market Analysis

Explores the hotel's target customers, their demographics, preferences, and pain points.

        - Example: Seaside Crest targets vacationers and travelers seeking a tropical getaway in Key West. Our primary market includes couples, honeymooners, and families looking for luxurious accommodations with a distinct tropical ambiance and proximity to the beach.

3.4. Market Opportunities

Identifies potential opportunities for the hotel to grow within the market.

        - Example: Seaside Crest can capitalize on market opportunities by offering unique amenities and experiences such as beachfront dining, spa services inspired by tropical traditions, and curated excursions to explore the natural wonders of Key West. Collaborations with local businesses for island-inspired dining and entertainment can further enhance the guest experience.

• Example 1: Conduct a survey among tourists in the area to determine their preferences for tropical-themed accommodations and their interest in a hotel with a beachfront location. (e.g., 80% of surveyed tourists express a strong preference for hotels with a tropical theme and direct beach access)
• Example 2: Analyze the occupancy rates and average daily rates of existing hotels in Key West to assess the demand and pricing trends in the market. (e.g., The average occupancy rate in Key West hotels during peak season is 85%, indicating a high demand for accommodations)

4. Marketing and Sales Strategy

4.1. product or service offerings: .

Describes the hotel's products or services in detail.

        - Example: Seaside Crest offers a range of tropical-themed accommodations and amenities, including luxury guest rooms, beachfront dining, spa services, and curated excursions.

4.2. Pricing Strategy

 Outlines the hotel's approach to pricing its products or services.

        - Example: Seaside Crest adopts a competitive pricing strategy, providing value for money while maintaining the exclusivity and high-quality experience associated with a tropical-themed hotel.

4.3. Sales Strategy

  Explains how the hotel plans to generate sales and build customer relationships.

        - Seaside Crest will implement a comprehensive sales strategy that includes online booking platforms, direct marketing to travel agencies, and partnerships with local tour operators to attract and engage potential guests.

 Describes the methods through which the hotel will deliver its products or services to customers.

   - Example: Seaside Crest will primarily distribute its services through online travel agencies, direct bookings through its website, and collaborations with travel agencies specializing in tropical getaways.

4.5. Promotions and Advertising

 Details the hotel's promotional efforts and advertising strategies.

        - Example: Seaside Crest will employ targeted marketing initiatives, utilizing social media and search engine platforms, to enhance brand visibility and attract new guests seeking a tropical-themed hotel experience in Key West..

• Example 1: Collaborate with local travel agencies to offer exclusive vacation packages that include a stay at Seaside Crest, showcasing the unique tropical experience and attracting potential guests. (e.g., 50 vacation packages sold within the first month of collaboration)
• Example 2: Organize a pre-launch event at a popular local venue, inviting travel influencers and bloggers to experience a preview of the hotel's amenities and share their impressions on social media. (e.g., 10 influencers with a combined reach of 500,000 followers attend the event and generate significant online buzz)
• Example 3: Offer a giveaway on social media to build a following

5. Facility Maintenance and Operations Plan:

   5.1. facility location and layout.

 Specify the hotel's physical business location and refer to the internal arrangement and organization of the space.

        - Example:Seaside Crest will secure a prime location in Key West, strategically positioned in close proximity to the beach and popular tourist attractions. The hotel's layout will be designed for optimal guest comfort and convenience, with thoughtfully arranged spaces and amenities.

5.2. Safety and Security:

Cover the hotel's comprehensive approach to safety and security, including surveillance systems, access control measures, etc.

        - Example: Seaside Crest will prioritize the safety and security of our guests and staff. We will implement robust security measures, including surveillance systems, access control, and trained personnel to monitor and respond to any potential threats or emergencies.

5.3. Cleaning and Housekeeping:

  Involves the hotel's procedures to ensure high standards of cleanliness, hygiene, etc.

        - Example: Our dedicated housekeeping staff will maintain the highest standards of cleanliness throughout the hotel, including guest rooms, common areas, and amenities. We will follow strict protocols to ensure a hygienic and pleasant environment for our guests.

• Example: The founding team of Seaside Crest includes Sarah Johnson, a seasoned hotelier with over 10 years of experience in managing luxury beachfront resorts, ensuring a deep understanding of the hotel industry's dynamics and customer expectations.
• Bennet  Leifer a renowned interior designer specializing in tropical-themed hospitality spaces, brings his expertise to Seaside Crest, ensuring the hotel's aesthetics align with the target market's preferences and create a memorable guest experience.

5.4. Energy Efficiency:

Involves energy-efficient practices and technologies to minimize energy consumption, reduce utility costs, and promote sustainability 

        - Example: As a responsible and sustainable hotel, Seaside Crest will strive to minimize energy consumption and reduce our environmental impact. We will implement energy-efficient practices, such as using energy-saving appliances, LED lighting, and smart systems for temperature control.

5.4.  Inventory Management:

includes tracking and controlling supplies, equipment, and amenities to optimize operations.

        - Example: Seaside Crest will employ an efficient inventory management system to track and manage hotel resources, including linens, toiletries, and other supplies. This system will ensure optimal inventory levels, minimize waste, and support smooth day-to-day operations.

All of the unique Hotel projections you see here were generated using ProjectionHub’s Hotel Financial Projection Template. Use PH20BP to enjoy a 20% discount on the template. 

   6.1. Startup Costs

  Provide a detailed breakdown of the total startup costs requirements, and where you plan for those funds to come from. You will also want to break down how the startup costs will be used including working capital to cover losses before the business breaks even.

        - Example: The total startup costs for Seaside Crest are estimated at $7,335,552. The owner plans to secure a business loan of $15,000, with  $7,500,000 contributed through personal funds.

6.2. Revenue Projections

Provide an estimate of the hotel's future revenue based on market research and assumptions.

        - Example:  Seaside Crest projects increasing revenue over the next five years, with $3,282,587 in the first year and reaching $5,938,052 by the fifth year.

Watch how to create financial projections for your Hotel

 Estimates the hotel's future expenses, including fixed and variable costs.

        - Example:  Seaside Crest's expenses include cost of goods sold, operating expenses, and direct labor and supply costs for the hotel, restaurant, spa, and events.

Summarizes the hotel's revenue, expenses, and net income over a specific period.

        - Example: Seaside Crest expects to achieve net income of $375,657 in the first year, growing to $1,845,652 by the fifth year, demonstrating a consistent increase in profitability.

 Outlines the hotel's projected cash inflows and outflows.

        - Example: Cash flow projections for Seaside Crest consider the seasonality of the hotel industry, ensuring effective financial management throughout the year.

  Determines the point at which the hotel's revenue equals its expenses.

        - Example: Seaside Crest anticipates reaching its break-even point within the first year of operation, indicating a strong potential for early profitability in the hotel industry.

Key Point  4

• Example 1: Benchmark financial projections against industry averages, such as the average revenue per available room (RevPAR) and average daily rate (ADR) for hotels in Key West, to ensure realistic revenue forecasts. (e.g., Seaside Crest's projected ADR is $250, in line with the average ADR of comparable beachfront hotels)
• Example 2: Analyze historical data from similar hotels in the area to estimate seasonality and demand fluctuations, accounting for factors like peak tourism seasons and local events. (e.g., Seaside Crest projects a 90% occupancy rate during the winter season based on the historical occupancy rates of nearby beachfront hotels)

   7.1. Supporting Documents

 Includes any relevant documentation that supports the information presented in the business plan, such as resumes, financial projections, market research data, and permits or licenses.

   7.2. Glossary of Term

 Provides definitions for industry-specific terms used throughout the business plan to ensure reader comprehension.

   7.3. References and Resources

Lists any sources or resources referenced during the preparation of the business plan, including industry reports, market research data, and relevant publications.

• Example 1: the owners of Seaside Crest invest a significant portion of their personal savings into the hotel's development and operations, demonstrating their commitment and confidence in the success of the venture. Additionally, they secure a personal guarantee for the hotel's financing, further aligning their interests with lenders and showcasing their willingness to share the risk.

How do I start a hotel business from scratch?

Starting a hotel business from scratch involves several key steps. Begin by conducting market research to identify a suitable location and target market. Develop a detailed business plan that outlines your hotel's concept, services, and financial projections. Secure funding through personal savings, loans, or investors. Obtain necessary permits and licenses and hire staff with hospitality experience.

What type of hotel should I open, and how do I choose a niche?

The type of hotel you open depends on your target market and location. Consider factors such as the level of service, amenities, and price range. Choose a niche that aligns with your interests and the demand in the local market. Options include boutique hotels, budget accommodations, luxury resorts, or themed hotels.

What marketing strategies can I use to promote my hotel?

Use a mix of digital marketing, social media, content marketing, and search engine optimization (SEO) to reach potential guests online. Collaborate with local tourism boards, travel agencies, and event planners to promote your hotel. Encourage positive reviews and testimonials to build credibility.

About the Author

Adam is the Co-founder of ProjectionHub which helps entrepreneurs create financial projections for potential investors, lenders and internal business planning. Since 2012, over 50,000 entrepreneurs from around the world have used ProjectionHub to help create financial projections.

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How to Create a Hotel Business Plan

Budding hoteliers can set themselves up for success by building a solid business plan. The symbolic foundation of your hotel, your business plan keeps you on track and accountable to your objectives and goals and is necessary for securing investors. This is not to say that initial plans should not be adapted and revised, especially in an industry as capricious as hospitality. With a plan to guide you, you can maintain focus on your goals and make better decisions in an ever-changing market to ensure success through easy and challenging times.

When starting, resist comparing yourself and your business to large, billion-dollar chain hotels. Even these vast operations began with just an idea and a plan. Facing the blank page and writing something down is the beginning of turning ideas into reality. Here’s a checklist to get started:

10 Key Elements of a Hotel Business Plan

• Vision : A pithy slogan that accurately conveys your big-picture aspirations (e.g., Disney’s “Make People Happy”).
• Mission : Describe the type of guests your hotel caters to and the service and stay experience you offer.
• SMART Goals : Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-Bound criteria ensure your objectives will be met within an established time frame.
• Conduct a SWOT Analysis : SWOT stands for Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats. An effective business plan includes this tool to analyze objectives and identify the benefits and potential risks for your hotel in the local market.
• Competitor/Company Analysis : Outline your competitors, focusing on direct local ones. Being savvy about your competitors’ strengths and weaknesses also leads you to the question: what is your unique selling point (USP)? Your answer tells potential investors why they should invest in your business rather than the one across the road by highlighting your operation’s desirability to guests.
• Guest Segmentation : Your entire strategic plan and hotel brand are based on identifying your audience . Describe your target audience and emphasize, “Why my hotel.” Use research and data to show the relevancy and profitability of your target demographics.
• Marketing : How are you going to get the right message to the right customers at the right time? There are many affordable, effective marketing channels and tools for hoteliers today. Your marketing strategy should include social media, a website, email marketing, direct sales, online reviews, and advertising partnerships/collaborations with individuals or organizations.
• Revenue : An effective revenue management strategy takes into account demand forecasting, distribution, pricing strategies, and total revenue opportunities. Having a revenue management plan in place from the get go supports profitability, increases the likelihood of future growth, and is essential for hoteliers to navigate a constantly changing market.
• Distribution : Market insights determine the best way to distribute inventory , and your strategy should consider your website, online travel agencies (OTAs), and traditional travel agents. However, focus on your direct booking strategy to cut commission costs and drive your bottom line.
• Technology, such as a Property Management System (PMS).
• Hiring processes and strategies and the roles you must fill.
• Service standards.
• Suppliers, inventory management, and any other relevant information.
• Financial Plan : Include anything that impacts your operation’s finances, such as your business structure and model, start-up costs, fundraising opportunities, a return on investment (ROI) timeline for investors, reaching and maintaining profitability, and any critical suppliers and partnerships. Also, consider adding 30% of extra expenses and 30% more time to build your business so that nothing surprises you or sets you back.
• The Team : Include bios for your management team highlighting the expertise and credentials with which they will execute your business plan. Investors need confidence in your team to bring the written words of your plan to life and achieve success.
• Location selection, permitting and licensing, and build-out/construction.
• Staffing, training, and grand opening.
• Break-even point and eventual profitability.
• Appendix : Include supporting documentation, additional information, or intricate details at the end of your business plan. This is the area you will reference throughout your plan to keep your main content concise and uncluttered.

Once you’ve written your business plan, regularly refer to it to ensure that new activities and investments align with your original vision and goals. Think of it as your roadmap for turning your dreams into a successful hotel!

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How to start a successful hotel business: a complete guide

From strategy, to software, to start-up costs: everything a new hotel owner needs to know.

In this guide, we deep dive into how to start a hotel business with step-by-step instructions and actionable tips. Whether you’re new to the hotel game or looking to grow your existing premises – here’s how to run a successful hotel.

In a world where renting out a property is easier than ever – all it takes is an internet connection and a host profile on Airbnb – arguably,  anyone can become a hotelier. But as anyone who’s done it will tell you, owning a hotel business goes far beyond giving people a place to sleep. The most successful hotel businesses take that practical need and turn into an unforgettable experience for their guests. It doesn’t matter whether you’re starting a five-star hotel, a family-friendly resort or budget motel – how you make your guests feel will determine your hotel’s reputation. And with online reviews the lifeblood of the hospitality industry, it’s critical that every guest leaves satisfied.

That’s why we created this guide – to help you dive deep into the crucial elements of starting – and growing – a successful hotel business.

Guide Contents:

• What type of person can run a hotel?

Find your place in the market

• Choosing your hotel identity

Pull it all together: creating a hotel business plan

• Crunch the numbers: the cost of getting started
• Spread the word: develop a marketing plan
• The A-team: hiring and training staff

Smooth operation: implementing systems

• Support for setting up your hotel with Preno

When the first-ever hotel opened in 1768, everything was managed on paper – a huge ledger with guest details painstaking recorded. Computers and spreadsheets made things easier, and more recently, hotel management software streamlined everything from start to finish. 

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Even so, it takes an entrepreneurial mindset and a passion for the business to tap into what is now one of the largest industries in the world. Your drive to serve and delight your guests while managing multiple tasks with grace and dignity will determine the culture and success of your team. 

For your hotel to thrive, you must be willing to step up, work hard and understand that customer experience is everything.      

First, you need to thoroughly understand what it means to own a hotel. Soak up the latest news, thought leadership and best practices from local and international experts – Preno, for example, sends fortnightly industry news. While researching hotels in your area, you might find there’s no demand for your initial idea or that a slight tweak to your plans could prove more profitable.

A strong market analysis will help you decide whether you build or buy, or if adding efficiencies like new technology could streamline operations and improve your bottom line. 

Choose your hotel identity

Your style of hotel will inform several business decisions. It isn’t easy to transition from one type to another, so choose carefully based on your market research.

• Boutique. Often smaller, with unique characteristics, e.g. historic building
• Family-friendly. Larger rooms, extra beds, entertainment facilities and attractions close by, caters to the entire household
• Budget. Lower rates, scaled-back amenities to pass savings on to the customer  
• Luxury. High price tag, top-notch service, access to four or five-star amenities, e.g. spa, concierge, room service

A business plan is critical to laying out the foundations of launching, promoting and operating your business. To secure investment, it’ll be a requirement.

Here’s a summary of what your business plan should include. You’ll find more detail on some of these aspects further in the guide.      

• Executive summary. Give a high-level overview of your hotel business plan – short and concise. Include your mission statement and your objectives.
• Brand positioning. Dive deep into the story of your brand – who you are, your unique selling points and your target audience.
• Market/industry analysis. Demonstrate that you understand the market you’ll be operating in – both from a local standpoint, and a broader look at the industry. This will show investors your potential for growth based on local travel patterns and industry trends.
• Competitor analysis. Highlight your understanding of your competitors, and how your hotel fills a gap in the market. A SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, threats) analysis is a good way to do this.
• Customer segmentation. Break down your target market: demographics, location, socioeconomics and behaviours. This is also known as crafting a guest persona. It’s important to understand your primary target market intimately, so you can cater for an experience that meets their needs and expectations.  
• Strategic plan. Cover marketing, distribution and revenue management in this section. This is where you’ll convince investors that you have a sound plan to connect with customers, manage your inventory and maximise your revenue.
• Operations plan. Create a detailed plan that covers staff, operating processes, suppliers and inventory management – everything involved in operating your hotel business. 
• Financial plan. Start talking money. Start-up costs followed by ongoing expenses (payroll, purchases, rent and utilities), forecasts and profit potential. 
• Management team. Introduce the people who will be running your business, their backgrounds and their capabilities.
• Important milestones. Include a timeline of relevant milestones (build, opening, profitability). This gives you progress markers to aim for and will increase your likelihood of success. 
• Appendix. Add additional information or supporting documentation to the appendix. Your business plan should focus on important strategic highlights – everything else you can add at the end.

Crunch the numbers: the costs of getting started

There are several variables that will determine the cost of opening a hotel:

• Location. Tourist hotspots and inner-city hotels will be more expensive than somewhere more regional or rural.
• Quality. Starting a five-star resort will be a lot more expensive than a budget motel.
• Size. Number of rooms and hotel facilities (restaurant, meeting room, spa, gym).

While it’s challenging to pinpoint the cost of setting up a hotel business, there are five areas you’ll need to include in your start-up budget:

• Land. Any real estate fees associated with purchasing land or securing a lease for your hotel site.
• Building and construction. Whether you’re starting from scratch, renovating an existing property or buying into a franchise, this will take up the largest portion of your start-up budget. Hotel owners typically need a lot of capital to get started, but you could secure a construction loan to fund this part of the project. Either way, your building costs will vary depending on your footprint, quality of materials and current building condition.
• Soft costs. Non-construction-related expenses like insurance, architects, consents, permits and taxes, designers and lawyers. 
• Furniture, fixtures and equipment. These are the costs associated with furnishing your hotel – anything that’s moveable, i.e. beds, electronic equipment, tables, chairs and desks.
• Working capital. For hiring staff, paying salaries and any expenses incurred before you open your doors and the cash starts coming in.

Now that you’ve got some numbers down on paper, it’s time to figure out whether your hotel venture is feasible. The numbers will tell you if your capital costs are worth the risk. Estimate key revenue and expenses like room pricing, vacancy rates and revenue per room. Don’t forget ongoing operating expenses like maintenance, wages, advertising, stock (service products and equipment) and utilities.

Run through a handful of scenarios in your forecasting to see how key decisions or events will impact the potential profitability of your business. You can find out more about calculating hotel metrics and conducting a hotel market analysis in this guide:

< How to calculate ADR and other hotel metrics>

Spread the word: developing a marketing plan

You’ve secured financing, the build or renovations are well underway – now you need to share your hotel with the world. Your hotel marketing plan is an important part of your overall business strategy. This is how you’ll communicate with your target audience – using your market research to guide you.

There are lots of ways to market your hotel – be creative and brainstorm ways to make your business stand out. There’s traditional marketing like TV, print and radio, or partnering with a PR agency or travel agent. 

In addition to setting up a well-optimised website and booking engine , here are some digital marketing ideas you’ll want to explore:

• Online travel agents (OTAs)– Think Booking.com, Expedia, TripAdvisor, and others. Most accommodation providers manage this through a channel manager like Preno.
• Social media marketing – Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn are the big three. Even if you don’t use all platforms straight away, you’ll want to secure as many handles as you can. Here’s a simple guide to creating a social media strategy that works .
• Paid versus organic advertising – Google Ads, boosted Facebook posts and sponsored Instagram posts are all examples of paid marketing. Sharing content like blogs or videos on YouTube through your social media platforms is designed to drive customers organically to your website. 

Want more ideas on how to promote your hotel business online? Read this guide:

<The ins and outs of hotel online marketing>

The A-team: hiring and training hotel staff

Hiring the right team members can make or break your plan to grow a successful hotel business. Most skills and knowledge can be taught but finding people with the right innate characteristics is critical.      

Attracting a stellar team

Before you place any job ads, get clear about the type of people you want to hire – what values, insights and skills will they bring to the team? Clarity here will ensure you attract like-minded people who share your vision. Your employees reflect your brand, so they need to exemplify the character traits you feel are most important to your hotel. 

You’ll then need to figure out a plan: role, requirements, hiring timeline and training. Depending on whether you buy or build, and the size of your hotel business, there will be key team members you’ll need to hire first. These are usually sales and marketing, finance, project management and facilities. 

Onboarding – get to know the team

Once you’ve got the team, the work doesn’t stop. Proper onboarding and training are chances to show people the ropes and give your team time to gel before the big opening day. Extra training for particular roles may be needed.

Before you open your doors, you’ll need to set up hotel systems and software to streamline and automate operations, so you can run your business leaner and more efficiently. Your requirements for user-friendliness and functionality alongside your budget will come into play when choosing the best hotel management system for your property.      

Here are some options you’ll want to consider:

• Hotel management system. This will likely be at the top of your list. Without a system to manage your bookings, you’ll be in the red before you’ve even started. A good system will facilitate management and administrative tasks including front-desk operations, rate and occupancy management and payment processing. It also connects to all the other important tools your hotel uses – like Xero or Lightspeed. 
• Channel manager. Channel managers allow you to automate changing your rates and managing your availability across all your channels – so you don’t have to spend all day doing it. 
• Booking Engine. These help you avoid the 15% fees charged by OTAs like Booking.com and Airbnb by collecting bookings directly via your website. Be sure to pick a booking engine like Preno that is optimised for mobile, and tailored to create easy conversions.
•   Accounting software. Preno’s world-class integration with Xero ensures the two applications work seamlessly together to automate invoicing, bookkeeping and payment processing – making it easy for hoteliers to manage their bookings and accounting in one place. Well-connected systems will give you clearer insights into how your business is performing. 
• Restaurant management software. If your hotel offers food and beverages in a restaurant or similar, you’ll want a Point of Sale (POS) system that connects your restaurant to your hotel management system. This will allow guests to charge back to their room. Preno and Lightspeed Kounta POS enable this type of customer experience.

Time to open the doors: launching your hotel business  

This is when things can get a little scary – but also exciting! You’ve put in the hard work, you’re ready to open the doors – and invite your first guests in. 

Opening events are often well-received and they’re a great chance to connect with your local community and key stakeholders. Put your best foot forward by planning an event that reflects your purpose and values and focus on building relationships. 

Go forth and conquer – you’re ready

The hotel industry is a hyper-competitive environment, and the disruption of Covid-19 in the last year has triggered a fundamental shift in the way accommodation facilities operate. Despite all the change, customer experience is one of the most important elements in determining the success of a new or existing hotel business. If you know what your target hotel guests need, and you can deliver on this, plus more (i.e exceeding customer expectations), your hotel’s reputation – and success – will be off to the best start. It’s a big bet and the risk is high, but careful planning, strategy and empowering your operation with the right technology will set you on course to starting a successful hotel business.

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Talk to the Preno team about getting set up.  

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Boutique Hotel Business Plan Blueprint: Complete Guide

• January 3, 2023
• Hospitality

Whether you’re looking to raise funding from private investors or to get a loan from a bank (like a SBA loan) for your boutique hotel, you will need to prepare a solid business plan.

In this article we go through, step-by-step, all the different sections you need in the business plan of your boutique hotel . Use this template to create a complete, clear and solid business plan that get you funded.

1. Boutique Hotel Executive Summary

Though the executive summary is the first and the most important section, it should normally be the last section you write because it will have the summary of different sections included in the entire plan.

Why do you need a business plan for a boutique hotel?

The purpose of a business plan is to secure funding through one of the following channels:

• Obtain bank financing or secure a loan from other lenders (such as a SBA loan )
• Obtain private investments from investment funds, angel investors, etc.
• Obtain a public or a private grant

How to write your boutique hotel’s executive summary?

Provide a precise and high-level summary of every section that you have included in your business plan. The information and the data you include in this segment should grab the attention of potential investors and lenders immediately.

Also make sure that the executive summary doesn’t exceed 2 pages in total: it’s supposed to be a summary for investors and lenders who don’t have time to scroll through 40-50 pages, so keep it short and brief.

The executive summary usually consists of 5 major sub-sections:

• Business overview : explain what is the concept of your hotel, whom it targets (business travelers vs. tourists), where it’s located, its size and any other amenities and services you offer
• Market & competitive overview : start by describing the state of the hotel industry in your area (the city or region where you plan to open yours). Also explain here the level of competition you expect from similar establishments. Finally, mention who are your target customers (your ideal customers) ie. their age, gender, disposable income as well as their preferences
• Sales & marketing strategy : describe how you plan to acquire new customers, outlining the exact marketing channels you intend to use and your overall budget
• Management & People : this section should provide information about the leadership hierarchy, highlighting the roles and responsibilities of every team member and their experience
• Financial plan : how much profit and revenue do you expect in the next 5 years? When will you reach the break-even point and start making profits? You can include here a chart depicting your key financials such as revenue, gross profits, and net profit
• Funding ask : what loan/investment/grant are you seeking? How much are you raising ? How long will this last?

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Hotel Financial Model

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2. Boutique Hotel Business Overview

This is the section where you will provide details about your boutique hotel and its concept. You must address some important questions that lenders and/or investors generally ask.

Here is a quick list of some of those questions you must address:

• What is the rationale behind you opening this type of hotel today?
• What’s the location of the hotel and why did you select that location?
• What hospitality services and products will you provide? Will you offer any special services (massage, gym, etc.)? 
• Will there be a restaurant?
• How many employees will you need to run the hotel?
•  How many rooms will you have to accommodate your guests?
• What types of rooms will you offer your customers? At what rates?
• What will be the legal structure of your company?

a) History of the Project

Any business must have two components:

• Passion & experience of the business owner
• Rationale behind starting this type of business today

Passion & experience

Starting a huge investment like a boutique hotel requires much more than just capital. It also needs the relevant background experience in the hospitality industry.

Typically, many individuals creating their own boutique hotel will have a long-standing passion and track record for the hospitality industry. Yet, if you lack the experience, it probably isn’t the right time to start your boutique hotel. Instead, you can choose a franchising option and work with an established hotel franchise.

What motivates you to start a boutique hotel in the region today? Unlike some other businesses, a boutique hotel requires a lot of financial and human capital investment.

So, before taking your first steps in this field, provide enough reasons to justify your decision to venture into the business. For instance, if there’s a scarcity of stylish boutique hotels targeting tourists in the region, you can use that to justify your reasons for starting one.

b) Hotel Concept

Describe your boutique hotel’s concept. Here are a few questions you may answer here:

• Will you target a specific market (all-inclusive vs. tourists, business travelers, etc.)? 
• What types of rooms will you have (midscale, upscale, luxury?)
• What amenities will you offer your guests? A restaurant, rooftop bar, a SPA, a conference/meeting room? See more on amenities in the next section
• What will be the hotel’s design, layout and surface?
• Where will the boutique hotel be located? Is this next to a busy street, an airport, a tourist attraction or a corporate center?

c) Services & Facilities 

Prioritize the most sought-after services in the region. While many boutique hotels offer the same services, you may want to differentiate yourself vs. competitors to attract guests.

Below are a few examples of the guest services you can provide depending on your target audience :

Boutique Hotel Services 

• Bar / Restaurant
• Event management (weddings, conferences, etc.)

Boutique Hotel Facilities 

• Swimming pool / Jacuzzi 
• Business center
• Summer terrace
• Smoking rooms
• Fitness room
• Conference room

d) Room Rates

Next, describe your pricing strategy . Indeed, designing a pricing list for a boutique hotel isn’t the easiest thing to do. So, you can rely on information from some of your biggest competitors in the region to help you set standard rates. 

Make sure to have a clear table with the different room categories and their daily rate. If you have off-peak vs. peak rates, make sure to include it too here. It doesn’t need to be exact (as the rates will likely change over time), so use price ranges instead.

e) Legal Structure

Finally, your business overview section should specify what type of business structure you want:

• Is this a corporation or a partnership (LLC)?
• Who are the investors? How much equity percentage do they own?
• Is there a Board of Directors? If so, whom? Do they have experience in the industry?

3. Boutique Hotel Market Overview

Provide comprehensive information about your market. You will want to tailor your services to suit the target audience. And that means you will need accurate information about the hospitality industry in your region:

• Industry size & growth : how big is the boutique hotel industry in your area? Is it growing / declining, and what are the factors contributing to its growth/decline?
• Competition overview : how many competitors are there? How do they compare vs. your hotel? Are they franchises or independent boutique hotels? Do they target the same guests as you do? How can you differentiate yourself from them? 
• Customer analysis : who is your target market ? Are they business travelers or tourists, single travelers, couples or families? How often do they travel and need an hotel? How much do they spend on average on hotel stays?

a) Boutique Hotel Industry Size & Growth

How big is the boutique hotel industry in the us.

The market size of boutique hotels in the US is estimated to be $16.9 billion in 2022.

Also, there are about 5,500 boutique hotel businesses in the country, meaning the annual turnover for each boutique hotel is around $3,000,000.

Another source estimated there were 4,600 boutique hotels in the US in 2021 and defines them as a high-end, independent hotel with less than 100 rooms and a unique design. The same source reported that boutique hotels accounted for 3.2% of total hotel rooms in the US in 2017, yet but 5.6% of the US hotel room revenue.

How big is the boutique hotel industry in your area?

After getting a clear picture of the boutique hotel industry in the US as a whole, narrow down to your location. Yet, you may not find this information anywhere (at least not for free). In that case, you can use our guide to estimate the TAM, SAM, and SOM for your business. Here is an example of how to do it:

We know the average annual turnover per boutique hotel is $3 million. Therefore, if the area where you want to open your hotel has 30 competitors (say, in a 30-mile radius), you can assume the boutique hotel industry in your area is worth $90 million .

How fast is the boutique hotel industry growing in your city?

The US boutique industry has suffered an unprecedented decline due to the pandemic. Indeed, it decreased from its peak at $20.6 billion in 2019 to $16.9 billion 2022, despite some recovery from its through.

But what about where you live? US national averages can be a great addition to your business plan, yet they don’t necessarily help to assess the boutique hotel industry where you want to open your own boutique hotel.

Instead, you can use the number of hotels as a proxy for market growth. For instance, if there were 28 boutique hotels in the region in 2020 and 30 in 2022, you can safely assume that the average annual growth rate is ~3% in your area.

The estimation above isn’t perfect as it disregard the occupancy rate. For example, if the 28 hotels had an occupancy rate of 20% in 2020, up to 50% in 2022, the market growth rate would actually be much higher i.e. 60% CAGR from 2020-22.

b) Competition Overview 

This sub-section focuses on crucial information about your main competitors. Take a closer look at the hospitality services and products offered by other boutique hotels in the region. And while at it, analyze their marketing strategies, pricing structure, and anything you can do to stand out from the competition.

Don’t forget to include a comparative table, highlighting every piece of information the lenders may need when analyzing your business. 

Here is a sample table that you can use:

c) Customer Analysis

Customer analysis is all about knowing your ideal guests: who exactly are you targeting?

You can narrow it down with the following questions:

• Demographics (age, gender, single vs. couples, etc.)
• Frequency of visits (how often do they need such services?)
• Average disposable income
• Average spend per stay (hotel, restaurant, other)
• Favorite services (e.g. gyms, spas, etc.)

4. Sales & Marketing Strategy

This section should highlight the strategies you have in place to attract potential clients. Try to answer the following questions:

• What are your unique selling points (USPs)?
• Which marketing strategies will you use to attract new clients? 
• How will you track the success of your marketing strategy? 
• What is your customer acquisition cost (CAC)? 
• What is your marketing budget? 
• Will you consider any offers or promotions to attract new clients? 

What marketing channels do boutique hotels use?

Like any new business, a boutique hotel requires comprehensive marketing during the first months to attract potential clients.

You can resort to the following channels to help you get new clients, even from your main competitors:

• Online local listing (Google reviews)
• Online booking platforms (Booking.com, Tripadvisor, etc.)
• Social media content & ads: for example encourage your guests to post on social media and / or hire a social media content manager who will create daily posts and manage your social media presence
• PPC ads ( Google Ads )
• Word of mouth, recommendations 

What are your Unique Selling Points (USPs)?

In other words, how do you differentiate yourself vs. competitors? This is very important as you might need to win customers from competitors. A few examples of USPs are; 

• Quality of services : you may offer high-quality services (e.g. luxury suites, fine dining restaurant, etc.)
• Pricing: your boutique hotel may be cheaper vs. competitors for the same quality of service
• Location : setting up your boutique hotel near your target market gives you the upper hand
• Amenities : you may be the only boutique hotel in the area offering a health SPA, a separate event center for weddings, etc.

5. Management & People

You must address 2 things here:

• The management team and their experience
• The organizational structure : different team members and who reports to whom

Small businesses often fail because of managerial weaknesses . Thus, having a strong management team is vital. Highlight the experience and education of senior managers that you intend to hire to oversee your hotel business.

First, describe their duties, responsibilities, and roles. Also, highlight their previous experience and explain how they succeeded in their previous roles.

Organization Structure

Even if you haven’t already hired a general manager, administrative staff, receptionists, chefs, and other relevant staff members, you must provide a chart of the organizational structure defining hierarchy and reporting lines.

6. Financial Plan

The financial plan is perhaps, with the executive summary, the most important section of any business plan for a boutique hotel.

Indeed, a solid financial plan tells lenders that your business is viable and can repay the loan you need from them. If you’re looking to raise equity from private investors, a solid financial plan will prove them your boutique hotel is an attractive investment.

There should be 2 sections to your financial plan section:

• The startup costs of your project (if you plan to start a new hotel, renovate your hotel, adding rooms, etc.)
• The 5-year financial projections of your boutique hotel

a) Startup Costs

Before we expand on 5-year financial projections in the following section, it’s always best practice to start with listing the startup costs of your project. For a boutique hotel, startup costs are all the expenses you incur before you open your hotel and receive your first guests. These expenses typically are:

• The leasing deposit (if you rent) or the cost to buy the building (if you buy)
• Renovations and improvements
• Equipment & appliances
• Furniture & tableware

Of course, the startup costs depend on a number of factors, like the size of your hotel, its location, the facilities, etc.

On average, it costs $8,400,000 to $10,800,000 to build and open a small boutique hotel with 20 rooms (assuming you decide to build the hotel from scratch).

Note that these costs are for illustrative purposes and may not be fully relevant for your business. For more information on how much it costs to open and run a boutique hotel, read our article here .

b) Financial Projections

In addition to startup costs, you will also need to build a solid 5-year financial model for your boutique hotel business plan.

Note that your financial projections should be built using a spreadsheet (e.g. Excel or Google Sheets) and presented in the form of tables and charts in your business plan.

As usual, keep it concise here and save details (for example detailed financial statements, financial metrics , key assumptions used for the projections) for the appendix instead.

Your financial projections should answer at least the following questions:

• How much revenue do you expect to generate over the next 5 years?
• When do you expect to break even ?
• How much cash will you burn until you get there?
• What’s the impact of a change in pricing (say 15%) on your margins?
• What is your average customer acquisition cost ?

You should include here your 3 financial statements (income statement, balance sheet and cash flow statement). This means you must forecast:

• The number of nights booked over time ;
• Your expected revenue ;
• Operating costs to run the business ;
• The construction costs and FF&E expenses

When projecting your revenue, make sure to sensitize pricing, the expenses (salaries, utilities, supplies, etc.) and the number of stays (or booked nights). Indeed, a small change in these assumptions may have a significant impact on your revenues and profits .

7. Use of Funds

This is the last section of the business plan of your boutique hotel. Now that we have explained what your boutique hotel’s concept is, the amenities it offers, your marketing strategy, etc., this section must now answer the following questions:

• How much funding do you need?
• What financial instrument(s) do you need: is this equity or debt, both?
• How long will this funding last?
• Where else does the money come from? If you apply for a SBA loan for example, where does the other part of the investment come from (your own capital, private investors?)

If you raise debt:

• What percentage of the total funding the loan represents?
• What is the corresponding Debt Service Coverage Ratio ?

If you raise equity

• What percentage ownership are you selling as part of this funding round?
• What is the corresponding valuation of your business?

Use of Funds

Any business plan for a boutique hotel should include a clear use of funds section. This is where you explain how the money will be spent.

Will you spend most of the loan / investment in paying for construction costs? Or will it cover mostly renovation and furniture costs?

For the use of funds, we also recommend using a pie chart like the one we have in our financial model template where we outline the main expenses categories as shown below.

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How to create a business plan for a hotel

Are you interested in being part of the hospitality industry or even dreaming of operating your own hotel? Do you have a passion for providing e­xceptional guest experiences? Before embarking on a project in this competitive industry, it’s essential to create a solid business plan. This compre­hensive guide is de­signed to equip aspiring entre­preneurs with the necessary knowledge and tools to develop effective business plans for hotels. We’ll also explore relevant skills and qualifications that can support your journey to success.

What is a hotel business plan?

A hotel busine­ss plan is a comprehe­nsive blueprint for running a venue that offers accommodation in the hospitality industry. It covers all the necessary de­tails related to setting up and ope­rating a hotel business.

The business plan is a roadmap, outlining important aspects such as market analysis, manage­ment structure, marketing plans, ope­rational strategies, and financial projections. It provide­s guidance for your actions and decisions as you take the project forward.

Why do you need a hotel business plan?

Similar to how architects create blueprints before constructing a building, it’s essential to have a strategic plan when starting a hotel business. Securing initial funding is ofte­n necessary for any new ve­nture. To convince financial institutions or private­ investors your idea is a wise inve­stment, it’s vital to have a detailed busine­ss plan for your hotel.

A structure­d plan helps you navigate­ each step, from choosing the right location to ide­ntifying your market niche and defining the­ scale of your operations. Whethe­r your dream is to own a cozy bed and breakfast or manage­ a luxury resort that rivals the top hotel brands , the first step is crafting a plan. While this may feel ove­rwhelming at first, breaking it down into smalle­r, manageable sections can make­ the task more approachable.

If you are looking to start a hotel business, being able to make a business plan is vital. And you can develop all the knowledge essential for this crucial step by studying for a hospitality degree.

First-class teaching and exclusive opportunities for professional networking make this course essential if you want to launch and manage a hotel business.

Starting your hotel business plan

If you want to start a hotel business, the following steps are essential as part of your business plan:

• Define your concept: this involves looking at your business idea, saying what makes your offering different, and defining its USPs (unique selling points). You should also consider the existing gaps in the market that your particular hotel may address.
• Identify target audience: consider who would be most attracted by various types of hotels and research demographics such as age bracket and socio-economic status, plus preferences and travel patterns
• Study the location: understand how this chosen environment potentially influences operational dynamics, such as seasonal variations affecting revenue inflow or local competition restraining the scope for expansion
• Seek professional guidance: engage professionals with expertise relevant to various aspects of developing hotels, such as property acquisition experts, legal structure advisors, architects, and interior designers

Hotel industry, market and competitor analysis

When crafting business plans for hotels, understanding the industry and competition is crucial. The first step in creating a constructive hotel plan is analyzing the broader trends and features of the sector that will help you position your establishment strategically while identifying promising opportunities. You need to look at:

• Market size and growth
• Regulatory environment
• Consumer behavior

This will help you evaluate the most important factors and help you see how to achieve your business goals. After this, you should be able to start making your plan, whether that’s an entrepreneur business plan as a hotel business owner or a plan as part of your job.

Hotel’s services and amenities

It’s vital not to overlook the importance of services and amenities when developing business plans for hotels. These elements are key to shaping your guest experience, which is pivotal to the success or failure of your hoteling business.

How do you make your hotel stand out in this crowded marketplace? First, identify your target clientele. Every customer demographic has unique needs. For example, a family with young children would appreciate kid-friendly facilities such as a children’s menu in the hotel restaurant, while traveling professionals might value complimentary Wi-Fi or a business center.

Once you’ve nailed down who your audience is likely to be, list potential services and amenities that will appeal to them. You should consider:

• Basic amenities: this refers to essentials such as comfort of rooms and bedding, bathrooms and toiletries
• Technological means: free high-speed internet access is expected by most guests
• Food and beverage: restaurants with a range of offerings at flexible times appeal to many customers
• Health and wellness services: gym, yoga, and spas are a major attraction for many guests
• Other offerings: this could include sightseeing tours, access to local events or concierge services

Business operations, management and marketing

A successful hotel business plan requires detailed descriptions of operations and hotel management strategies that ensure smooth functioning. They must be practical, cost-effective, and streamlined. 

Hotel operations

Operating a hotel involves meticulous coordination, starting from managing room reservations to supervising staff members. To help identify potential obstacles, business plans for hotels should detail certain operational components such as:

• Guest service standards: clearly outline what kind of experience you intend to offer visitors
• Supplier handling: resolving issues related to procurement and timely delivery demands careful planning
• Employee training procedures: well-trained people are vital for executing quality services

Hotel marketing

Marketing forms an influential part of a successful hotel plan. Increasingly, a solid focus on digital marketing is essential. This could include:

• Creating an engaging website that showcases unique offerings such as amenities or location
• Leveraging search engine optimization (SEO) techniques for increased visibility online
• Using social media platforms to connect directly with potential customers

Successful marketing strategies tailored towards your target customers will help ensure optimal occupancy rate and revenue.

Hotel distribution

The importance of astute distribution cannot be underestimated in hotel profitability. Distribution channels principally include online travel agencies or direct bookings through your website or booking call centers. 

Strategically analyze which platform aligns best with your hotel’s business needs before making decisions on partnerships. Selecting diverse but suitable channels improves the chances of filling rooms and increasing profit.

Keys to your hotel’s financial business plan

Critical to any business plan is the financial section. This goes beyond just keeping a balance sheet. It supports your vision and mission, supplying objective evidence your hotel business concept has been meticulously researched. Building a financial plan requires the following steps:

Understand revenue streams

The first part of your financial plan involves identifying revenue streams and potential return on investment. Every hotel plan should outline its sources of income, which usually comprise room revenue, food and beverage, and sometimes income from spa or banqueting services.

Cost analysis

Next on your radar should be a thorough cost analysis. This addresses operating costs and initial expenses such as purchase prices if you’re thinking of buying a hotel. If you’re trying to answer the question ‘How much does it cost to own a hotel?’ you’ll need a detailed breakdown of overheads such as staff wages, utilities, marketing efforts, and ongoing maintenance.

Profitability projections

Any financial business model a hotel may follow must include a profitability projection. Establishing projections helps investors answer the question ‘Are hotels profitable?’. For this, you will need to provide well-reasoned, yearly projections that take into account peak seasons and off-peak periods – and it’s the same in a large or small hotel plan.

Risk management

Risk management is essential in any sector, including the hospitality industry . Whether it’s potential regulatory changes or economic downturns, contingency plans will boost confidence among prospective investors and lend credibility.

Incorporating these elements into business plans for hotels will yield an in-depth picture of how the venue will function financially – initially and over time. 

Simple small hotel business plan template

Simplicity is key when creating business plans for hotels, particularly smaller e­stablishments. It helps maintain focus and reduces the risk of overlooking key e­lements. A simple hote­l plan allows you to emphasize core se­rvices, outline key marke­ting strategies, estimate­ expenses, and proje­ct potential income clearly and straightforwardly.

Below is a simplifie­d framework to guide you through the process of creating a successful plan for a small hotel:

• Executive summary: in this section, provide­ an overview of your hotel’s ope­rating model. Specify whethe­r it will be a boutique guesthouse­ or budget lodgings and mention your target custome­r base. Will you be catering to tourists or local busine­sses? A concise snapshot of your hoteling busine­ss vision will build a solid foundation for the re­st of your plan
• Market analysis: instead of exte­nsive market rese­arch, it’s important to prioritize identifying primary compe­titors and understanding their custome­r acquisition strategies. This information will he­lp refine your approach
• Services and amenities: take a mome­nt to consider what sets your small hotel apart. Is it the unique and charming decor? The complime­ntary breakfast that adds value for guests? Maybe­ it’s the round-the-clock staff availability, ensuring excellent service­ whenever ne­eded? Be sure­ to highlight these special fe­atures that make your establishme­nt stand out from others
• Marketing plan: you need to consider a range of factors that set you apart from competitors in this section, especially your location. Maybe you’re in a popular tourist area or near major attractions, which could give you an e­dge. Emphasizing personalize­d service can also make a significant difference
• Operational structure:   it’s important to de­signate who will be responsible­ for daily operations so that you have accountability and so you can check progress as your business develops. You should also outline staff roles that nee­d to be filled, such as houseke­eping or receptionist positions.

Skills needed to plan a hotel business

To create­ effective busine­ss plans, there are se­veral essential skills you will need to develop. Among the most important are:

• Strategic thinking : the ability to deve­lop a comprehensive plan that will guide­ the organization towards its goals and objectives
• Problem-solving : ide­ntifying and addressing any challenges that may arise­ during implementation
• Effective­ communication: necessary for delivering the plan in a cle­ar and concise way so it can be e­asily understood by all involved parties
• Financial analysis : being able to understand financial stateme­nts and make informed decisions re­garding finances
• Marketing : how to develop and impleme­nt a marketing strategy that successfully grabs custome­rs’ attention and boosts sales
• Sales : the ability to e­ffectively prese­nt and persuade investors and othe­r stakeholders about the me­rits of the business plan
• Project management : managing the implementation of the business plan and tracking its progress
• Adaptability : it’s essential to be flexible, especially in the face of market and environme­ntal changes. You must be able to adjust and modify the­ business plan as neede­d

How to learn more about business planning

There are many ways to learn business planning. Here are a few tips:

• Study a degree course tailored towards starting your own business or helping make business plans for existing hotels
• Consider taking a busine­ss planning course to improve your skills. Look for course­s available online, at community college­s, or universities. These­ provide valuable knowle­dge and guidance on business planning fundame­ntals, allowing you to develop the ne­cessary skills for creating successful busine­ss plans
• Read books and articles on the topic. Many resources are available­ that offer insights and strategie­s to help you create e­ffective business plans
• Engage in conve­rsations with fellow entrepre­neurs. This can be an invaluable­ opportunity to gain insights into the world of business planning and valuable advice
• Engage with the busine­ss community as a way to learn about business planning. Consider atte­nding networking events, joining busine­ss organizations, and offering your time as a voluntee­r to support other businesses
• Consider se­eking assistance from a professional busine­ss consultant. They can provide valuable guidance­ and support throughout the process

Our online master’s program gives you the flexibility to study around your working life, allowing you to refine skills that can open doors to more senior roles.

A well-de­veloped business plan is crucial for achie­ving success in the hospitality industry, particularly for hotels. A compre­hensive business plan is a roadmap, guiding e­very stage of hotel de­velopment and operations. It can help secure funding and investment and provide a clear vision for your hotel’s future .

If you’re inte­rested in starting your hotel busine­ss, there are many re­sources available to help you cre­ate a comprehensive­ and effective plan. Consider a hospitality degree­ at Les Roches, which provides an excellent foundation for managing any hotel venture, including making business plans.

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• About Xotels

How to Start a Hotel Business

For many people, it is a dream to open their own boutique hotel or luxury bed and breakfast, but the big question is how to start a hotel business? Opening a boutique hotel business , just like any new company, is more difficult than it might seem at first sight.

Particularly if you have never worked in the international hotel industry, you will be faced with many things you might have not considered or imagined before. The hotel business is highly competitive and achieving good financial results is not as easy as it seems.

In my experience at XOTELS – Hotel Revenue Management Consulting in dealing with entrepreneurs and investors, I have found that there is no shortage of creative ideas for innovative hotel concepts. The challenge, however, lies more in the strategic and organizational areas of the business.

The Hotel Dream… Where it all Starts

Where to get started with opening your own hotel? What kind of hotel should it be? How does location influence my business? How to attract guests? How to control operational costs and run a profitable business? These are all crucial questions that should be dealt with prior to getting into the business.

In this article, we will discuss tips on starting your own hotel:

• What it takes to be a Hotel Manager – Skillset

Experience Vs No Experience

Strategy & execution.

• Hotel Market Size and Opportunities

Hotel Segment Opportunities

External factors in the hotel industry.

• Independent vs Franchise
• 11 Steps for Starting a Boutique Hotel
• Opening a Hotel Business From Start to Finish

What it Takes to be a Hotel Manager – The Skillset

The stereotype is clear: many hours of hard work when everybody else is off…

Everything is true, and even more when you’re in charge of a hotel. So, why might anyone want to open a new hotel? There is only one answer to this question: it is because we love it. It is definitely one of the most rewarding jobs when it comes creating moments that will make people happy.

What does this mean for someone who wants to open a hotel? Although you might not be in direct contact with guests for most of the time (depending on the type hotel you choose), there are certain personality traits that will help you open a hotel business. We consider the following characteristics to be of great help:

• Guest first mentality & proactiveness, meaning always thinking of how the guest feels around your hotel and what can be done about it to improve their experience. Either taking action (according to feedback or your own observance) before service failure occurs will greatly improve guest satisfaction and therefore resulting in higher review scores.
• Open minded to feedback. Becoming a great hotel does not happen overnight. Adapting and evolving according to feedback comes before everything else in this process. Guests can always bring out points of improvement, and acting on it will definitely put you ahead of the game. Just think how many times you have been able to make suggestions to hotel staff/owners, making the real question how effectively you will be dealing with the comments.
• Proactive, taking actions proactively will prevent your hotel and staff performance from getting sidetracked. Of course, following KPIs (key performance indicators) will give you some degree of insight, but stepping beyond and letting your creativity help drive revenue and guest experience will enable your hotel to be successful.
• Perseverance. Hospitality is not always the easiest industry to work in, especially when times get though. However, with the right amount of perseverance you will be able to pull through and enjoy the fruits of your labor.
• Multi-tasking. Being a jack of all trades and a good multitasker definitely helps in following the many different processes happening around the hotel. One second you might be doing administrative work – the other – helping out with housekeeping getting rooms ready for the next arrivals.
• Communication, being able to communicate your goals and how the hotel is performing is crucial to the development of your business. Involving your staff with the right communication puts everyone on the same page: the one for success.

Having hospitality experience prior to opening a hotel can definitely put you a step ahead. The speed and effectiveness with which you will build your concept will likely coincide with the level of your industry know-how. Below we will give you some examples of where you might face challenges.

Skill Sets Explained

General knowledge.

Knowing the service standards might be the most important of general hospitality knowledge. Without this knowledge, it will be difficult to maintain standards and motivate staff to improve their overall performance.

Room Division Experience

Running front of the house can be challenging even for the more seasoned hospitality professionals mainly due to the myriad of processes running all at the same time. Other issues can occur with the alignment of services between other departments such as F&B.

F&B Experience

If you do not have any prior experience in developing and running the F&B side of a hotel, we advise you to be careful with extensive F&B concepts, avoiding risks such as:

• Etiquettes can certainly be learned, but often work differently in practice. Learning what works well and what can be applied can be quite tricky.
• Food and service standards. Running a professional kitchen is totally different from anything you might have seen before. Putting out quality food requires well thought through menus and efficient workflows to ensure speed of service is maintained whilst delivering quality dishes.
• Purchasing, maintaining consistent food quality while keeping food-cost low will be challenging without prior knowledge of handling, preparation, and storage of food in a professional kitchen.
• Concept development covers not only how your hotel will look like, but also how services and facilities align with the operational logistics in the hotel. Making any mistakes here could cost you money, time and loss of operational efficiency.

Revenue Management Experience

Essential to any hotel opening is a solid revenue management strategy. At the core of any successful pre-opening phase are well-thought-through elements of product pricing and positioning such as:

• Room type strategy (e.g. supplement strategy, promoting differentiation between rooms)
• Distribution (e.g. contracting online travel agents, channel mapping in your PMS)
• Competitive positioning (how do you competitively price yourself in the market, evaluating your value-add and weighing it against your competitors)
• Promotions (when and what kind of promotions will you run, including negotiation and contracting of partners)

Consider if you are capable of developing and executing revenue management strategies and operations. Missing any of the above elements of managing revenue will guarantee a loss of revenue opportunities directly impacting your cash flow.

Marketing Experience

Coming up with a marketing strategy might look simple, but coming up with something exceptional is a different story. If you do not have the needed experience you might lack essential points in your marketing plan causing a significant loss of business opportunity . Also, do you have your planning front of mind? Launching a new hotel requires some serious time to plan, with particular activities that should be on the way one or two years ahead of the opening date, such as the website and distribution contracting.

Any of the above gaps in experience can be filled in by outsourcing the development and support of hotel opening and management services. The most important is to understand exactly where you might be lacking background knowledge to reach a solid business plan and execution.

What Does It Take To Open a Hotel Business?

Becoming a great hotel goes beyond just offering great facilities and service. Everything needs to be aimed towards providing guests something special and creating unique experiences.

How to Start a Hotel Business? 5 Steps for Success

First, it is important to settle on the points you really want to stand out. Here it is all about the quality and differentiation of your facilities, staff and service, technological features, and more…

Following the below steps will help you settle on your decision.

Customer Centered Services

Guests crave unique experiences and expectations keep on rising. Offerings should facilitate customer experiences helping you to stand out from the crowd. Think ahead what features and activities can be implemented to excel in your service delivery. Great moments to interact with guests can be simple, such as time for guests to enjoy a complimentary drink and snack on the house.

Another point to consider is how you will be personalizing the way your services are delivered and products are presented through marketing. Customer loyalty is dependent on the way products are marketed towards customers’ needs, with 25% of consumers (Netimperative) indicating to be more loyal to a travel brand that shows an understanding of their needs through marketing.

This is equally important to how services delivery takes place, as customers are open to switching to their choice if they find services better catering to their needs (80% of consumers, Qubit).

We cover this further in our hotel trends article diving deeper into personalization in hospitality.

Tailoring your facilities to the needs and wants of your target group will be essential. A great example of this are business travellers, who require work related amenities to get their job done. Aim to apply the same thought process behind how your hotel’s public areas and rooms can be decked out with essential features ready to be marketed towards this segment.

Where you choose to locate your property has proven to be critical in the way your hotel can be positioned in the market, and how guests can be drawn to book your hotel. Exactly what will be driving your demand?

• Area features: bars, restaurants, shopping districts
• Transportation: connectivity to any major traffic arteries, train stations, airports, subway stations, bicycle routes etc.
• Other demand generators: proximity to a business area, tourist attractions, industrial park, universities

Besides demand driving factors, you should think about:

• How does the location fit your concept / does it complement your idea of what the hotel should radiate to your target audience
• Can I add something new to the market in this location – or – is there already a similar concept next door

Learn everything you need to know on this topic in our article about hotel site selection .

Maximize Your Hotel Revenue

Uncover the hidden revenue potential of your hotel or resort.

Many hoteliers underestimate how much planning and thought should be going into your hotel opening. Making sure you have planned enough time to think everything through, covering every single thing you can possibly think of will give you a competitive advantage.

Developing Your Concept and Design

Coming up with an idea solely relying on your instinct and personal design preference would be a mistake. So what should you consider?

Hotel Market Size & Opportunities

Despite it being a tough year for the hospitality industry, hotel project development and openings continue to unfold all across the globe, with stunning 775 hotels and 147,316 rooms planned to open for the second half of 2020 ( Tophotelprojects, 2020 ).

Opportunities will always continue to linger around the corner. Not knowing when we recover might be a difficult variable to consider, but we know recovery lies somewhere around the road ahead. Considering the significant amount of time it takes to open a hotel, and emerging opportunities due to Covid-19, we think it is still the right time to open a new hotel.

When it comes to favourable circumstances, we could definitely name a few:

• More room in the job market, making it easier to procure qualified staff. Something that before the crises could not be taking for granted
• Closures of competition, sadly, many hotels businesses have had to pull the plug. This means less competition in a market which was previously getting highly competitive in specific markets.
• Subsequently, this means there are real estate deals out there, ready to be picked up for new hotels to step in

Much can be gained when diving thoroughly into opportunities that segmentation provides. Be as specific as possible. You should really want to be aware of which hotel market segments can drive revenue in fine detail as far ahead of opening as possible. With this knowledge, you can focus marketing and sales efforts specifically towards these segments. Without any understanding of these groups, it will be hard to create appealing offers.

With proper hotel segmentation you will be able to:

• Increase attractability across each segment with a focussed approach and initiatives for each group
• Measuring per segment leads to more actionable insights
• More historic data will be available for trend analysis in the future

Hospitality is typically one of the first industries to be impacted by macro economic factors. Considering how the following external factors could be affecting the market is therefore vital:

• Domestic travel, whether larger or smaller markets, domestic travel can contribute highly to your performance. Keep an eye on how your market is performing by looking into pulling data from your municipality as well as market data that can be provided by OTAs .
• The same applies to Non-domestic travel. Be aware of your largest feeder markets/countries of which you will be relying on.
• GDP, historically, hotel demand and GDP go hand in hand showing a strong correlation between the two metrics.
• Consumer Confidence Index, describes the optimism on the economy expressed through activities of savings and spending by consumers.

The best places to find travel statistics are your municipality/regional databases as well as OTAs, which also have an abundance of data at their disposal when it comes to feeder markets.

Independent Hotels vs Franchised Hotels

Perhaps one of the biggest questions to be answered..

We believe in the power of independent hotels, more freedom to create a hotel to your liking, less restrictions, and far lower cost not having to pay to the franchise owner.

Still considering to go for a franchise? Be prepared to add the following fees to your budget:

• Initial fee
• Royalty fees
• Marketing fee
• Sales reservation fees
• Loyalty / frequent traveller programs fees
• Miscellaneous fees

Streamline Your Hotel Operations

We guide hotels and resorts toward unparalleled success, positioning them as market leaders.

Pulling Everything Together: The Hotel Business Plan

Here is a short list of how your hotel business plan should look like. If you would like a more detailed checklist, be sure to check out our free hotel business plan template .

1. Executive summary

This part should include two main parts, one being the mission statement, and the other are your objectives. Keep this part short, concise and grab the attention of the reader.

2. Company Analysis

This is the part where you dive deeper into your company’s USPs (unique selling points). Basically, explaining what the concept entails.

3. Industry Analysis

Investors want to know if you properly understand the market you are going to operate in. This also forms the foundation of which trends and developments you will be building your brand on.

4. Customer Analysis

This part focuses on breaking down your target market. Think of factors such as:

• Geographics
• Demographics
• Socio-economics
• Psycho-graphics
• Behavioral segmentation

Imagine the type of guests which will be likely to visit your hotel. Painting a picture of guest types will give you the insight needed to evaluate how value can be provided to your customers.

5. Competitive Analysis

Of course, studying local competition is essential to highlight your strengths and weaknesses, as well as weighing those of the competition against your own. This can also be defined as a SWOT analysis, which investors use to see how you differentiate and stand out from the crowd.

6. Strategic Plan

The strategic plan consists of three important parts covering marketing, distribution and revenue management. Further down we have listed a time-based planning covering these topics.

7. Operations Plan

This is all about the details when it comes to running your operations smoothly. Do not make the mistake of not diving deep enough here, so make sure to include the following:

• Staff, anyone from lower level staff to managers should all be quantified.
• Operating processes, how/when/what you will be developing manuals for. Make sure to set your service standards.
• Suppliers, which/and what will you be needing suppliers for (linnen, food, drinks, office supplies etc.)
• How will your inventory be managed?

8. Management Team

Who will be running your business, and what makes them unique and capable of creating a great hotel that stands out. Explain your team’s backgrounds will give insight into this.

9. Financial Plan

How much money will be needed to fulfill your needs. Start with the capital investment (start-up costs of the hotel), followed by ongoing business costs and operational expenses:

• Rent and Utilities
• Other Expenses (franchise fees, marketing expenses, maintenance costs etc.)

10. Key Milestones

Setting milestones will increase the likelihood of success. The risk for lenders or investors decreases each time a milestone is achieved, reaching high chances of success once the last milestones are in sight. Important milestones include:

• Location selection
• Permits & Licenses
• Build-out / Construction of the Hotel
• Staffing and Training
• GOP Break-even
• NOI Break-even

11. Appendix

All other content less relevant to getting your important message across belongs in the appendix. Try keeping your plan as concise and straight to the point as possible, referring to the appendix when needed to avoid an over cluttered appearance to the investors.

Do not be Too Late: Start on Time

Beginning on time is not only essential to your success, but it can save you a lot of money. Consider the below timeframes to give you an idea of when to start your business processes.

The Planning: From Start to Finish

0-1 months:.

Grand Opening:

• Do not put your entire marketing budget in the grand opening. This is just one day, and it will be impossible to reach enough potential business to fill your hotel in the long run. View marketing as a constant long term effort instead.

Soft opening:

• Final finetuning and testing for the staff and systems before official opening Great opportunity to take press and industry bloggers on a tour of the hotel without the burden of operational pressure of a full hotel. Reporters really appreciate all the help you can give them with preparing a story on this new hotspot in town. Invite corporate decision makers to test the hotel. Treat them like VIP’s. Wine and dine them, and turn them into ambassadors of your business. Impressing them with an unforgettable experience will start spreading word-of-mouth for you.

Open for sales on your own website and OTAs etc.

Reservations:

• Prior to this it is possible to have staff taking inquiry and answering questions with scheduled callbacks at a later stage once everything is organized. However, from 3 months prior to the opening the reservations call center needs to be up and running.

System selection

• MS, Web Booking Engine, CRS, GDS, Channel Manager, Rate Shopper, CRM. These all need to be selected, purchased and installed between 6 to 3 months prior to the opening.
• Schedule visits daily with decision makers of companies from 9 months prior to the opening trying to win them over from the competition.

Website live

• Websites page/history is a strong factor in ranking on google, so launching your website as earlier as possible would be the best. This will also ensure your website is properly indexed on search engines

• Preferably, 18 months prior, but certainly no later than 12 months prior to the opening. Even if it is with temporary images and content.
• This might be the point where most hotel owners miss the boat when it comes to maximizing their potential. It starts to get complicated when thinking about using different pricing techniques (covering both opening prices as well as long term rates) across multiple scenarios and room types, as well as setting your mind on payment and cancellation policies.
• Budgets, forecasts, rate strategy, room type strategy, packages, distribution strategy (covering everything from direct sales to promotions)
• Choosing here to outsource revenue management can bring a strategic advantage, both when establishing your business plan and the execution of your plans.

Distribution

• Eventually your rooms will have to be sold somewhere right? Which 3rd party distribution partners will you contract, and what technology will be necessary to facilitate all this.
• On the marketing side, questions such as how you will be attracting customers, how you will be positioning your hotel, what message will be delivered across different segments, and how your website will be planned out when it comes to SEO, SEM, SMM, social media, and blogging. Having the right strategies will help driving direct sales to your hotel
• Sales strategy should be ready to set into action. Think of tools, templates and how you will be executing visits and follow-ups.
• We tend to overestimate how easy it is to find a good management team. Experience has taught owners opening hotels it is not. Moreover finding a highly qualified pre-opening team that has develop, implement and execute your strategies is even more difficult. You will need to start recruiting this team 2 years before the opening to be able to find the right people for the job, and have them start in time.
• Be precise in what their responsibilities are and where they overlap with other departments. Considering the needed experience here is important as well, since it will help make the staff budget and hiring process. Lastly, make a planning according to your pre-opening phases to decide on when everyone should start (think as far ahead as possible).

Promotion/PR

• ‘Coming soon’ Put up a big sign ‘Coming soon’ with some breathtaking images of what you are building to attract the attention of people walking and driving by. This should start the day the first construction is initiated.
• Local media, keep them in the loop on developments (even let them visit your construction site)
• Regular press releases up until the opening (construction progress, interesting anecdotes, mission statements, sneakpeaks from the rooms etc.). Combine everything in a well curated social media that attracts attention. Make anyone feel the need to follow how the final product will look like.

Financial Plan

• Covering this will be the revenue projections for the next five years. Important metrics to follow are your expected occupancy rates, ADR (average daily rate) and RevPAR (revenue per available room). This should give you the outline of how much money will need to be raised, giving you the start of how much will need to be raised (internally or externally) and when you will be needing it (investors need to know when lenders will get paid as well to secure their own return on investment).

Interested in Taking Your Plans to the Next Level?

Think you are ready? Below we have linked to more of our articles providing all the knowledge you need to take your plans to the next level!

• Hotel Business Plan
• Hotel Market Research
• Hotel Feasibility Study
• Common Mistaked made in the Pre-opening Phase of Hotels .

On a last note, it will be extremely important you prepare yourself well, do a lot of research and develop a detailed business plan to ensure success . It is not as simple as ‘If you build it, they will come’, for if you have watched Field of Dreams with Kevin Costner.

Unfortunately, our hotel revenue management consulting experts and I still see too many hotel startups fail due to little planning.

I hope these tips will help fellow entrepreneurs start successful new hotel businesses!

Cheers, Patrick Landman

PS. Any doubts or uncertainties about your ideas and planning? Contact us for hotel revenue management consulting or hotel management  to help build out your concept and run your business most effectively as possible.

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Back to All Business Ideas

How to Start a Hotel: Cost, Location and Profit Potential

Written by: Carolyn Young

Carolyn Young is a business writer who focuses on entrepreneurial concepts and the business formation. She has over 25 years of experience in business roles, and has authored several entrepreneurship textbooks.

Edited by: David Lepeska

David has been writing and learning about business, finance and globalization for a quarter-century, starting with a small New York consulting firm in the 1990s.

Published on June 7, 2022 Updated on July 8, 2024

Investment range

$661,550 - $2,124,100

Revenue potential

$1.1 million - $1.6 million p.a.

Time to build

6 – 12 months

Profit potential

$274,000 - $410,000 p.a.

Industry trend

Starting your hotel? Here are the most vital considerations:

• Location — Choose a location that is accessible and attractive to your target market. Consider factors such as proximity to tourist attractions, business centers, transportation hubs, and amenities.
• Design and layout — Plan the design and layout of your hotel, including the number of rooms, common areas, dining facilities, and amenities. Consider working with architects and interior designers to create an appealing and functional space.
• Licenses and permits — You will need various licenses depending on your location including health and safety permits , fire safety permits , liquor licenses , and environmental permits.
• Online presence — Create a professional website with booking capabilities. Optimize your website for search engines (SEO) and ensure it is mobile-friendly. Also, get your hotel listed on Booking and Trip Advisor.
• Register your business — A limited liability company (LLC) is the best legal structure for new businesses because it is fast and simple. Form your business immediately using ZenBusiness LLC formation service or hire one of the best LLC services on the market.
• Legal business aspects — Register for taxes, open a business bank account, and get an EIN .
• Hire staff — Hire and train staff for various roles, including front desk, housekeeping, maintenance, food and beverage, and customer service.
• Property management — Implement a PMS to manage reservations, guest check-ins and check-outs, billing, and other operational tasks.

Interactive Checklist at your fingertips—begin your hotel today!

You May Also Wonder:

How profitable are hotels?

Hotels can be very profitable. You’ll need a good concept, an excellent location, and offer great customer service to be successful.

How should I price my hotel rooms?

The prices you charge will depend on the amenities you’ve built, and the quality of your rooms and furnishings. A luxury hotel or a boutique hotel in a great location can be $300 or more per night, while many chain hotels might charge $100 to $150 per night. Check local market prices to make sure you’re competitive.

Is it hard to start a hotel?

Starting a hotel can be a challenging and complex process that requires significant planning, financial investment, and knowledge of the hospitality industry.

What is the most profitable part of a hotel?

Revenue from room bookings and occupancy rates often play a significant role in a hotel’s profitability. However, other revenue streams such as food and beverage services, conference or event spaces, spa facilities, or additional amenities like fitness centers or swimming pools can also contribute significantly to overall profitability.

How many rooms should my hotel have to be successful?

Consider factors such as the competitiveness of the local market, existing accommodation options, and potential demand generators like nearby attractions, events, or business centers. By understanding the market dynamics and aligning the room count with the target market’s needs, you can increase the chances of success.

How can I differentiate my hotel from competitors in the area?

Highlight your hotel’s distinctive features, such as special amenities, architectural elements, or design aspects. Emphasize personalized service by training your staff to provide exceptional customer service and tailored experiences. Offer unique amenities or experiences that set your hotel apart.

Step 1: Decide if the Business Is Right for You

Pros and cons.

Starting a hotel has pros and cons to consider before deciding if it’s right for you.

• Valuable Service – Provide a comfortable place for travelers
• Good Money – Make thousands in revenue per night
• High Demand – Pleasure and business travelers
• Large Investment – Lots of cash required
• Location Dependent – Appealing destination required

Hotel industry trends

Industry size and growth.

• Industry size and past growth – The US hotels and motels industry is worth $170.6 billion in 2022 after expanding 208% the last two years.(( https://www.ibisworld.com/industry-statistics/market-size/hotels-motels-united-states/ )) 
• Growth forecast – The US hotels and motels industry is projected to grow 33.6% in 2022. 
• Number of businesses – In 2022, 90,562 hotels and motels businesses are operating in the US.(( https://www.ibisworld.com/industry-statistics/number-of-businesses/hotels-motels-united-states/ )) 
• Number of people employed – In 2022, the US hotels and motels industry employs 1,610,206 people.(( https://www.ibisworld.com/industry-statistics/employment/hotels-motels-united-states/ ))

Trends and challenges

Trends in the hotel industry include:

• More and more hotels are adding spa services to their amenities.
• Hotels are increasingly embracing technology, such as with room doors that can be opened with a smartphone app or even a fingerprint.

Challenges in the hotel industry include:

• Airbnb is growing fast, presenting tremendous competition for hotels.
• Labor shortages are making it increasingly difficult for hotels to operate effectively. 

Demand hotspots

• Most popular states – The most popular states for hotel managers are Hawaii, Arizona, and Nevada.(( https://www.zippia.com/hotel-manager-jobs/best-states/ ))
• Least popular states – The least popular states for hotel managers are Michigan, Iowa, and Minnesota.

What kind of people work in hotels?

• Gender – 49.4% of hotel managers are female, while 50.6% are male. (( https://www.zippia.com/hotel-manager-jobs/demographics/ ))
• Average level of education – The average hotel manager has a bachelor’s degree.
• Average age – The average hotel manager in the US is 43.3 years old.

How much does it cost to start a hotel business?

Startup costs for a hotel range from $650,000 to $2 million or more. Costs include at least a 30% down payment on the land and building construction, room furnishings, towels and sheets, equipment, and a labor and operating budget. Costs will be dependent on the amenities you put in your hotel, such as a pool, gym, spa, and restaurant.

If you were to buy a franchise such as a Holiday Inn or Hampton Inn instead of building your own, you’ll spend significantly more on franchise fees and construction. 

If you do not have a background in the hospitality business, you can get an online degree from a school like Bryant and Stratton . 

You’ll need a handful of items to successfully launch your hotel business, including: 

• Furnishings
• Hotel room security features
• Computer system
• Luggage carts
• Housekeeping carts and supplies
• Vending machines
• Ice machines
• Towels, sheets, toiletries

How much can you earn from a hotel business?

The prices you charge will depend on the amenities you’ve built, and the quality of your rooms and furnishings. A luxury hotel or a boutique hotel in a great location can be $300 or more per night, while many chain hotels might charge $100 to $150 per night. These calculations will assume an average price of $150 and that your hotel will have 50 rooms. Successful hotel profit margins are about 25%. 

In your first year or two, you could have 40% occupancy on average, bringing in $1,095,000 in annual revenue. This would mean $274,000 in profit, assuming that 25% margin. As your brand gains recognition, you might increase your average occupancy rate to 60%. With annual revenue of $1,642,000, you’d make a great profit of $410,000.

What barriers to entry are there?

There are a few barriers to entry for a hotel. Your biggest challenges will be:

• The high startup costs of constructing and preparing a hotel
• The intense competition in the hotel market

Related Business Ideas

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Beginner’s Guide to Starting a Successful Glamping Business

13 Steps to Start an Airbnb Business

Step 2: hone your idea.

Now that you know what’s involved in starting a hotel, it’s a good idea to hone your concept in preparation to enter a competitive market. 

Market research will give you the upper hand, even if you’re already positive that you have a perfect product or service. Conducting market research is important, because it can help you understand your customers better, who your competitors are, and your business landscape.

Why? Identify an opportunity

Research hotels in your area and online to examine their services, price points, and customer reviews. You’re looking for a market gap to fill. For instance, maybe the local market is missing a boutique hotel with a spa, or a small hotel with a restaurant and room service. 

You might consider targeting a niche market by specializing in a certain aspect of your industry, such as operating as a discount hotel or a luxury hotel.

This could jumpstart your word-of-mouth marketing and attract clients right away. 

What? Determine your hotel services and offerings

You can offer any number of amenities in your hotel, many of which are included in the room price. You can earn additional revenue by having a restaurant or spa. You can also make money from vending machines and business services, such as printing and copying. 

How much should you charge for hotel rooms?

The prices you charge will depend on the amenities you’ve built, and the quality of your rooms and furnishings. A luxury hotel or a boutique hotel in a great location can be $300 or more per night, while many chain hotels might charge $100 to $150 per night. Check your local market prices to make sure you’re competitive. Your profit margin after the costs of labor and overhead should be about 25%. 

Once you know your costs, you can use this Step By Step profit margin calculator to determine your mark-up and final price points. Remember, the prices you use at launch should be subject to change if warranted by the market.

Who? Identify your target market

Your target market will be travelers, whether for business or pleasure. You should spread out your marketing to include sites like TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn.

Where? Choose your hotel location

Choosing the right location for your hotel is essential for attracting guests and ensuring its success. Look for a spot in a popular and convenient area, such as a bustling city center, a beachfront, or a tourist destination. Consider accessibility and convenience, ensuring that the location is easily reachable by public transportation and has ample parking.

Additionally, assess the competition in the area and aim to differentiate your hotel by offering unique amenities or services, such as a rooftop bar or a spa. Depending on the type of hotel you plan to start, you may also want to consider the proximity to local attractions, business centers, or other resources.

By strategically choosing the right location, you can establish a profitable and successful hotel that provides exceptional service and stands out in the competitive hospitality industry.

Step 3: Brainstorm a Hotel Name

Here are some ideas for brainstorming your business name:

• Short, unique, and catchy names tend to stand out
• Names that are easy to say and spell tend to do better 
• Name should be relevant to your product or service offerings
• Ask around — family, friends, colleagues, social media — for suggestions
• Including keywords, such as “hotel” or “inn”, boosts SEO
• Name should allow for expansion, for ex: “Grand Getaways Hotel” over “Family Fun Resorts”
• A location-based name can help establish a strong connection with your local community and help with the SEO but might hinder future expansion

Once you’ve got a list of potential names, visit the website of the US Patent and Trademark Office to make sure they are available for registration and check the availability of related domain names using our Domain Name Search tool. Using “.com” or “.org” sharply increases credibility, so it’s best to focus on these. 

Find a Domain

Powered by GoDaddy.com

Finally, make your choice among the names that pass this screening and go ahead with domain registration and social media account creation. Your business name is one of the key differentiators that sets your business apart. Once you pick your company name, and start with the branding, it is hard to change the business name. Therefore, it’s important to carefully consider your choice before you start a business entity.

Step 4: Create a Hotel Business Plan

Here are the key components of a business plan:

• Executive Summary: A brief overview of the hotel business plan, summarizing key points and goals.
• Business Overview: Detailed information about the hotel, including its mission, vision, and the type of services it will offer.
• Product and Services: Specific details about the hotel’s accommodations, amenities, and any additional services provided, such as dining or event spaces.
• Market Analysis: Examination of the target market, including demographics, trends, and potential demand for the hotel’s offerings.
• Competitive Analysis: Evaluation of competitors in the hotel industry, identifying strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats.
• Sales and Marketing: Strategies for promoting the hotel, attracting guests, and increasing bookings through advertising, promotions, and other sales tactics.
• Management Team: Introduction to key individuals involved in the hotel’s management, highlighting their qualifications and roles.
• Operations Plan: Details on the day-to-day operations of the hotel, including staffing, facilities management, and customer service protocols.
• Financial Plan: Projections and analyses of the hotel’s financial performance, including income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow forecasts.
• Appendix: Additional supporting documents or information, such as market research data, legal documents, and any other relevant materials.

If you’ve never created a business plan, it can be an intimidating task. You might consider hiring a business plan specialist to create a top-notch business plan for you.

Step 5: Register Your Business

Registering your business is an absolutely crucial step — it’s the prerequisite to paying taxes, raising capital, opening a bank account, and other guideposts on the road to getting a business up and running.

Plus, registration is exciting because it makes the entire process official. Once it’s complete, you’ll have your own business! 

Choose where to register your company

Your business location is important because it can affect taxes, legal requirements, and revenue. Most people will register their business in the state where they live, but if you’re planning to expand, you might consider looking elsewhere, as some states could offer real advantages when it comes to hotels. 

If you’re willing to move, you could really maximize your business! Keep in mind, it’s relatively easy to transfer your business to another state. 

Choose your business structure

Business entities come in several varieties, each with its pros and cons. The legal structure you choose for your hotel will shape your taxes, personal liability, and business registration requirements, so choose wisely. 

Here are the main options:

• Sole Proprietorship – The most common structure for small businesses makes no legal distinction between company and owner. All income goes to the owner, who’s also liable for any debts, losses, or liabilities incurred by the business. The owner pays taxes on business income on his or her personal tax return.
• General Partnership – Similar to a sole proprietorship, but for two or more people. Again, owners keep the profits and are liable for losses. The partners pay taxes on their share of business income on their personal tax returns.
• Limited Liability Company (LLC) – Combines the characteristics of corporations with those of sole proprietorships or partnerships. Again, the owners are not personally liable for debts.
• C Corp – Under this structure, the business is a distinct legal entity and the owner or owners are not personally liable for its debts. Owners take profits through shareholder dividends, rather than directly. The corporation pays taxes, and owners pay taxes on their dividends, which is sometimes referred to as double taxation.
• S Corp – An S-Corporation refers to the tax classification of the business but is not a business entity. An S-Corp can be either a corporation or an LLC , which just need to elect to be an S-Corp for tax status. In an S-Corp, income is passed through directly to shareholders, who pay taxes on their share of business income on their personal tax returns.

We recommend that new business owners choose LLC as it offers liability protection and pass-through taxation while being simpler to form than a corporation. You can form an LLC in as little as five minutes using an online LLC formation service. They will check that your business name is available before filing, submit your articles of organization , and answer any questions you might have.

Form Your LLC

Choose Your State

We recommend ZenBusiness as the Best LLC Service for 2024

Step 6: Register for Taxes

The final step before you’re able to pay taxes is getting an Employer Identification Number , or EIN. You can file for your EIN online or by mail or fax: visit the IRS website to learn more. Keep in mind, if you’ve chosen to be a sole proprietorship you can simply use your social security number as your EIN. 

Once you have your EIN, you’ll need to choose your tax year. Financially speaking, your business will operate in a calendar year (January–December) or a fiscal year, a 12-month period that can start in any month. This will determine your tax cycle, while your business structure will determine which taxes you’ll pay.

The IRS website also offers a tax-payers checklist , and taxes can be filed online.

It is important to consult an accountant or other professional to help you with your taxes to ensure you’re completing them correctly.

Step 7: Fund your Business

Securing financing is your next step and there are plenty of ways to raise capital:

• Bank loans: This is the most common method but getting approved requires a rock-solid business plan and strong credit history.
• SBA-guaranteed loans: The Small Business Administration can act as guarantor, helping gain that elusive bank approval via an SBA-guaranteed loan .
• Government grants: A handful of financial assistance programs help fund entrepreneurs. Visit Grants.gov to learn which might work for you.
• Venture capital: Venture capital investors take an ownership stake in exchange for funds, so keep in mind that you’d be sacrificing some control over your business. This is generally only available for businesses with high growth potential.
• Angel investors: Reach out to your entire network in search of people interested in investing in early-stage startups in exchange for a stake. Established angel investors are always looking for good opportunities. 
• Friends and Family: Reach out to friends and family to provide a business loan or investment in your concept. It’s a good idea to have legal advice when doing so because SEC regulations apply.
• Personal: Self-fund your business via your savings or the sale of property or other assets.

Bank and SBA loans are probably the best option, other than friends and family, for funding a hotel business. You might also try crowdfunding if you have an innovative concept. 

At some point, if you’re successful and want to open new locations, you may be able to attract angel investors or venture capital.

Step 8: Apply for Hotel Business Licenses and Permits

Starting a hotel business requires obtaining a number of licenses and permits from local, state, and federal governments.

You’ll likely need a Certificate of Occupancy Permit, which is issued by the building department official who has jurisdiction over your facility. The Certificate of Occupancy Permit will indicate which rooms are approved as dwelling units.

Federal regulations, licenses, and permits associated with starting your business include doing business as (DBA), health licenses and permits from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration ( OSHA ), trademarks, copyrights, patents, and other intellectual properties, as well as industry-specific licenses and permits. 

You may also need state-level and local county or city-based licenses and permits. The license requirements and how to obtain them vary, so check the websites of your state, city, and county governments or contact the appropriate person to learn more. 

You could also check this SBA guide for your state’s requirements, but we recommend using MyCorporation’s Business License Compliance Package . They will research the exact forms you need for your business and state and provide them to ensure you’re fully compliant.

This is not a step to be taken lightly, as failing to comply with legal requirements can result in hefty penalties.

If you feel overwhelmed by this step or don’t know how to begin, it might be a good idea to hire a professional to help you check all the legal boxes.

Step 9: Open a Business Bank Account

Before you start making money, you’ll need a place to keep it, and that requires opening a bank account .

Keeping your business finances separate from your personal account makes it easy to file taxes and track your company’s income, so it’s worth doing even if you’re running your hotel business as a sole proprietorship. Opening a business bank account is quite simple, and similar to opening a personal one. Most major banks offer accounts tailored for businesses — just inquire at your preferred bank to learn about their rates and features.

Banks vary in terms of offerings, so it’s a good idea to examine your options and select the best plan for you. Once you choose your bank, bring in your EIN (or Social Security Number if you decide on a sole proprietorship), articles of incorporation, and other legal documents and open your new account. 

Step 10: Get Business Insurance

Business insurance is an area that often gets overlooked yet it can be vital to your success as an entrepreneur. Insurance protects you from unexpected events that can have a devastating impact on your business.

Here are some types of insurance to consider:

• General liability: The most comprehensive type of insurance, acting as a catch-all for many business elements that require coverage. If you get just one kind of insurance, this is it. It even protects against bodily injury and property damage.
• Business Property: Provides coverage for your equipment and supplies.
• Equipment Breakdown Insurance: Covers the cost of replacing or repairing equipment that has broken due to mechanical issues.
• Worker’s compensation: Provides compensation to employees injured on the job.
• Property: Covers your physical space, whether it is a cart, storefront, or office.
• Commercial auto: Protection for your company-owned vehicle.
• Professional liability: Protects against claims from a client who says they suffered a loss due to an error or omission in your work.
• Business owner’s policy (BOP): This is an insurance plan that acts as an all-in-one insurance policy, a combination of the above insurance types.

Step 11: Prepare to Launch

As opening day nears, prepare for launch by reviewing and improving some key elements of your business. 

Essential software and tools

Being an entrepreneur often means wearing many hats, from marketing to sales to accounting, which can be overwhelming. Fortunately, many websites and digital tools are available to help simplify many business tasks. 

You may want to use industry-specific software, such as inRoad , TripActions , or Cloudbeds , to manage your bookings, room inventory, pricing, and payments. 

• Popular web-based accounting programs for smaller businesses include Quickbooks , Freshbooks , and Xero . 
• If you’re unfamiliar with basic accounting, you may want to hire a professional, especially as you begin. The consequences for filing incorrect tax documents can be harsh, so accuracy is crucial.

Develop your website

Website development is crucial because your site is your online presence and needs to convince prospective clients of your expertise and professionalism.

You can create your own website using website builders . This route is very affordable, but figuring out how to build a website can be time-consuming. If you lack tech-savvy, you can hire a web designer or developer to create a custom website for your business.

They are unlikely to find your website, however, unless you follow Search Engine Optimization ( SEO ) practices. These are steps that help pages rank higher in the results of top search engines like Google. 

Here are some powerful marketing strategies for your future business:

• Professional Branding — Ensure your branding reflects the luxury and experience guests will enjoy, from the website to the interior design of your hotel.
• Website Optimization — Develop a visually appealing website and optimize it to rank for searches related to local accommodations, enhancing online visibility.
• Local SEO  — Regularly update your Google My Business and Yelp profiles to strengthen your local search presence.
• Direct Outreach — Build partnerships with local businesses, travel agencies, and event planners to attract corporate bookings and event referrals.
• Social Media Engagement — Use platforms like Instagram to showcase your hotel visually and leverage Facebook and Twitter for promotions and guest interactions.
• Email Newsletters — Send regular updates about special offers, events, and new services at your hotel to keep guests informed.
• Video Content — Produce videos offering virtual tours of your property and sharing positive guest testimonials.
• Experiential Marketing — Organize local tours and events to enhance guest experiences and showcase the local culture.
• Travel Expos Participation — Promote your hotel at travel expos to reach a broader audience and generate more bookings.
• Local Collaborations — Team up with nearby attractions and eateries to create exclusive guest packages or discounts.
• Loyalty Rewards Program — Offer perks like discounts or room upgrades to frequent guests to foster loyalty.
• Targeted Online Advertising — Employ targeted advertising on platforms like Google Ads to reach potential guests actively searching for accommodations in your area.

Focus on USPs

Unique selling propositions, or USPs, are the characteristics of a product or service that sets it apart from the competition. Customers today are inundated with buying options, so you’ll have a real advantage if they are able to quickly grasp how your hotel meets their needs or wishes. It’s wise to do all you can to ensure your USPs stand out on your website and in your marketing and promotional materials, stimulating buyer desire. 

Global pizza chain Domino’s is renowned for its USP: “Hot pizza in 30 minutes or less, guaranteed.” Signature USPs for your hotel business could be: 

• Enjoy the lap of luxury on your holiday
• Stay with us for less on your road trip
• Relax and renew with a day at the spa!

You may not like to network or use personal connections for business gain. But your personal and professional networks likely offer considerable untapped business potential. Maybe that Facebook friend you met in college is now running a hotel, or a LinkedIn contact of yours is connected to dozens of potential clients. Maybe your cousin or neighbor has been working in hotels for years and can offer invaluable insight and industry connections. 

The possibilities are endless, so it’s a good idea to review your personal and professional networks and reach out to those with possible links to or interest in hotels. You’ll probably generate new customers or find companies with which you could establish a partnership. 

Step 12: Build Your Team

If you’re starting out small from a home office, you may not need any employees. But as your business grows, you will likely need workers to fill various roles. Potential positions for a hotel business include:

• Housekeepers – clean rooms and common areas
• Hotel Clerks – greet guests, assign rooms
• Maintenance Workers – make repairs
• Valets – carry luggage
• General Manager – scheduling, accounting
• Marketing Lead – SEO strategies, social media

At some point, you may need to hire all of these positions or simply a few, depending on the size and needs of your business. You might also hire multiple workers for a single role or a single worker for multiple roles, again depending on need. 

Free-of-charge methods to recruit employees include posting ads on popular platforms such as LinkedIn, Facebook, or Jobs.com. You might also consider a premium recruitment option, such as advertising on Indeed , Glassdoor , or ZipRecruiter . Further, if you have the resources, you could consider hiring a recruitment agency to help you find talent. 

Step 13: Run a Hotel – Start Making Money!

Hotels are bouncing back big-time as people get back out and travel. Starting a new hotel requires a major investment, but it provides a crucial service and can be very lucrative. If you have a passion for hospitality and serving your guests, you could build a major hotel chain that goes national, even global! 

Now that you know what’s involved, it’s time to break ground on your successful hotel.

Hotels are bouncing back big-time as people get back out and travel. Starting a new hotel requires a major investment, but it provides a crucial service and can be very lucrative. If you have a passion for hospitality and serving your guests, you could build a major hotel chain that goes national, even global!

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• Decide if the Business Is Right for You
• Hone Your Idea
• Brainstorm a Hotel Name
• Create a Hotel Business Plan
• Register Your Business
• Register for Taxes
• Fund your Business
• Apply for Hotel Business Licenses and Permits
• Open a Business Bank Account
• Get Business Insurance
• Prepare to Launch
• Build Your Team
• Run a Hotel - Start Making Money!

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Hotel Business Plan [Sample Template]

By: Author Tony Martins Ajaero

Home » Business ideas » Hospitality, Travel & Tourism » Hotel

Are you about to start a hotel and hospitality business? If YES, here is a complete sample hotel business plan template & feasibility report you can use for FREE .

Okay, so we have considered all the requirements for starting a hotel business . We also took it further by analyzing and drafting a sample hotel marketing plan template backed up by actionable guerrilla marketing ideas for hotel businesses.

So let’s proceed to the business planning section. All over the world, the hospitality business is being seen as a very serious trade and the reason for this cannot be farfetched.

The reason the hospitality business – especially the hotel business is being taken seriously is because of its relationship with the tourism industry. Starting a hotel business could eventually be one of the best things to attain for yourself. This is because of the lucrative nature and prosperity involved in this industry.

Every day foreigners, as well as local migrants and business people, travel from one point or the other and the option they are faced with is staying in hotels. It is pertinent to note that there are different categories of hotels, like 5-star, 4-star or even 3-star hotels.

One of the essential things that are unique to each category of the hotel is the facilities that make up each. Whatever type of hotel category you may have in view, there is always the most important step to take in making your business stand out, as well as succeed in the long run.

What can this be? Well, that is the hurdle of writing a business plan. You too have the wherewithal to do so, as a well put together business plan is available to you below.

A Sample Hotel Business Plan Template

1. industry overview.

The hospitality industry has been in existence from time immemorial and it is still waxing strong simply because people can’t do away with the services they offer. When you talk about a hotel, you are talking about an establishment that provides lodging for guests/travelers, tourists, visitors et al, on a short-term basis with a fee.

When people lodge in hotels, they have the option of subscribing to other services the hotel offers; services as feeding, drinks, laundry, fitness center, swimming pool, conference room, and business room, amongst others.

As a matter of fact, the facilities provided by some hotels may range from a basic bed and storage wardrobe to luxury features such as en-suite bathrooms, mini parlor et al. It is the norm for big hotels to provide additional guest facilities like a swimming pool, conference center, business center, childcare, self-service laundry, fitness center, and social function services.

In some countries, hotels are required by law to serve food and drinks to all their clients that are lodged in their facility while in some countries, you would have to choose the additional services you want from the hotel. The bottom line is the higher the amount you pay in hotels, the more the services you are entitled to.

Starting a hotel business is capital intensive and it is considered a long-term investment because it takes a while for the owners to break even and start making profits. No doubt it takes a big-time investor to consider starting his or her own hotel business, which is why loads of hotels are owned by groups of investors.

One good thing about the hotel business is that the business can grow so big that it will not only have an active presence in key cities in the country where it started from but in major cities on all the continents of the world. It is important to state that hotel operations vary in size, function, and cost which is why hotels are classified into different grades (two-star hotels, five-star hotels, seven-star hotels et al).

2. Executive Summary

Sean and Sharon Hotel will be located in the heart of Las Vegas less than 20-minute drive from McCarran International Airport in Las Vegas, and a few minutes drive from Mandalay Bay Event Center. We are conveniently located in the world’s headquarters for casinos and games; a commercial center.

Sean & Sharon Hotel believes in the passionate pursuit of excellence and financial success with uncompromising services and integrity, which is why we have decided to venture into the hospitality industry by establishing our own hotel.

We are certain that our values will help us drive the business to enviable heights and also help us attract the number of clients that will make our hotel fully booked all through the year.

We are going to be a customer-centric hotel with a service culture that will be deeply rooted in the fabric of our organizational structure and indeed at all levels of the organization. With that, we know that we will be able to consistently achieve our set business goals, increase our profitability and reinforce our positive long-term relationships with our clientele, partners, and all our employees as well.

Our hotel facility will be decorated in an exquisite and elegant facade, so much so that it will be a conspicuous edifice in the city where it is located. Sean & Sharon Hotel will provide a conducive spot for our customers to take a break from their various busy schedules, to a place where they can find comfort and luxury.

Sean and Sharon’s hotel will be equipped with a business center and a VIP lounge, as well as a Fitness room and self-service laundry which will be made available for resident guests at no extra cost.

We will also install free Wi-Fi that will enable our guests to surf the internet with their laptops in the hotel room free of charge, and there will be wireless access in all the public areas in the hotel; we will also provide mobile phones for a loan to business travelers for their convenience so as to enable them to stay in – touch with their family members, friends, and business partners.

No doubt our business class guest rooms will provide our customers with a warm and comfortable home away-from home experience, a large banquet venue, as well as Chinese and Intercontinental cuisine. We are set to give our esteemed guests an unforgettable experience whenever they patronize our hotel.

Sean and Sharon Hotel is owned by Sean Glacier, Sharon Glacier, and other investors whose names can’t be mentioned in this business plan for obvious reasons. The owners and board members of Sean and Sharon hotel are big-time investors in the hospitality industry.

Sharon Glacier has well over 20 years of experience in hotel management and she has a Master’s Degree in Hotel Management. She will be bringing her wealth of experience to the table to make Sean and Sharon Hotel the number one choice in Las Vegas.

Over and above we are building a hotel business that will be the cynosure of all eyes. One that competes favorably with other hotels that are in existence in Las Vegas. We plan to do this bearing in mind that it would take hard work, loads of financial commitment, as well as well-trained employees who can be indoctrinated in the quest for building a top-notch hotel in Las Vegas city.

3. Our Products and Services

Sean and Sharon Hotel is set to operate a standard hotel service in Las Vegas, Nevada. The point that we want to become a force to reckon with in the hospitality industry means that we will provide our guests with a fitness room, social room, self-service laundry room, and business center; for the purpose of business or leisure and more.

In all that we do, we will ensure that our guests leave with an unforgettable experience that will make them want to come back as well as recommend our hotel to their friends, family members, and business partners. These are the services and amenities that will be made available to our guests;

• Meals (Local Delicacies, Chinese cuisines, and intercontinental cuisines et al)
• Drinks (wines, beers, distilled spirits, martinis, beverages, and non–alcoholic drinks)
• Swimming pool
• Self – service laundry room
• Business center
• Conference room
• Banquet venue
• Shuttle service

4. Our Mission and Vision Statement

• Our vision is to open a standard hotel that will become the number one choice in Las Vegas
• Our mission is to deliver reliable, genuine, caring, and excellent service superior to what our competition can offer in any location where our hotel will be situated and to ensure that our hotel enjoys over 90 percent occupancy in most parts of the calendar year.

Our Business Structure

The success of any business is to a larger extent dependent on the business structure of the organization and the people who occupy the available role. Sean and Sharon Hotel will work with a business structure that will give room to employees to explore their creativity, give a sense of belonging, as well as grow through the corporate ladder of the organization.

We will work hard to ensure that we only recruit the right set of people with the right mindset to help us achieve our business goals and objectives in record time. We intend to build Sean and Sharon Hotel on this structure;

• Chief Executive Officer (Owner)
• Hotel Manager

Human Resources and Administrative Manager

• Bartender/Baristas
• Accountants/Cashiers

Facility/Maintenance Manager

• Marketing Officer
• Front Desk Officer
• Cleaners/Washer men

Security Officers

5. Job Roles and Responsibilities

Chief Executive Officer – CEO:

• Responsible for providing direction for the business
• Creates, communicates, and implements the organization’s vision, mission, and overall direction – i.e. leading the development and implementation of the overall organization’s strategy.
• Responsible for fixing prices and signing business deals
• Responsible for recruitment
• Responsible for payment of salaries
• Responsible for signing checks and documents on behalf of the company
• Evaluates the success of the organization

Hotel Manager:

• Responsible for managing the daily activities in the hotel
• Ensures that the facility is in tip-top shape and conducive enough to welcome customers
• Interfaces with vendors
• Reports to the Chief Executive Officer
• Attends to Customer complaints and inquiries
• Prepares budget and reports for the organization
• Responsible for Training and Development in the organization
• Handles procurement
• Handles any other duty as assigned by the CEO
• Responsible for overseeing the smooth running of HR and administrative tasks for the organization
• Defines job positions for recruitment and managing interviewing process
• Carries out staff induction for new team members
• Responsible for training, evaluation, and assessment of employees
• Responsible for arranging travel, meetings, and appointments
• Oversees the smooth running of daily office activities.

Marketing Officer (2)

• Develops, executes and evaluates new plans for expanding increase sales
• Documents all customer contact and information.
• Represents the company in strategic meetings
• Helps increase sales and growth for the company
• Identifies, prioritizes, and reaches out to new partners, and business opportunities et al
• Responsible for planning and overseeing building work/renovation
• Responsible for allocating and managing space within buildings
• Responsible for managing building maintenance activities
• Responsible for coordinating cleaning, catering, and parking services
• Responsible for organizing security and general administrative services
• Ensures that facilities meet government regulations and environmental, health and security standards
• Advise on energy efficiency and cost-effectiveness
• Supervises multi-disciplinary teams of staff including maintenance, grounds, and custodial workers

Bartender / Baristas (4):

• Interacts with customers, takes orders for drinks, food, and snacks.
• Plans and presents bar menu.
• Checks identification of the guest to make sure they meet age requirements for purchase of alcohol and tobacco products.
• Mixes ingredients to prepare cocktails and other drinks.
• Mixes drinks, cocktails, and other bar beverages as ordered and in compliance with hotel standard drink recipes.
• Prepares alcohol or non-alcohol beverages.
• Services Wine and Beer to guests.
• Arranges bottles and glasses to make attractive displays.
• Assesses customer’s needs and preferences and makes recommendations
• Makes lists of supplies in conjunction with the bar manager/management
• Prepares inventory or purchase requisitions as needed to replenish supplies.
• Ensures that the assigned bar area is fully equipped with tools and products needed for Mixing beverages and serving guests.

Accountant/Cashier:

• Collect payment for drinks served and balance all receipts.
• Prepare a financial report at the end of every working week
• Handles all financial transactions on behalf of the company
• Interfaces with our bankers
• Responsible for payment of tax, levies, and utility bills
• Handle any other duty as assigned by the CEO/microbrewery manager

Front Desk Officer (2)

• Ensures that customers feel relaxed and at home
• Handles customers inquiries
• Ability to Sell or influence others for up selling and suggestive selling.
• Provides recommendations and suggestions to guest for choosing Drinks, food, and Snacks.
• Serve customers in a friendly and helpful manner.
• Provides guidance to guests on resort activities, dining options, and general resort and Regional information.
• Demonstrates a thorough knowledge of food and beverage products, menus, and Promotions
• Handles any other duty as assigned by the bar manager

  Cleaners/Washerman (6):

• Handles and moves objects, such as glasses, dish,es and bottles, using hands and arms.
• Cleans up after customers and cleans work area.
• Clears ashtrays as and when required.
• Washes glassware and utensils after each use.
• Maintains a clean working area by sweeping, vacuuming, dusting, cleaning of glass doors and windows, etc. if required.
• Ensures that toiletries and supplies don’t run out of stock
• Responsible for handling laundry
• Handles any other duty as assigned by the restaurant manager,
• Ensures that the facility is secured at all time
• Controls traffic and organizes parking
• Gives security tips to staff members from time to time
• Patrols around the building on a 24 hours basis
• Submits security reports weekly
• Any other duty as assigned by the restaurant manager

6. SWOT Analysis

Sean and Sharon Hotel is fully aware that they are coming into an industry that can be highly competitive which is why they have decided to pay attention to the SWOT analysis for the organization.

We know that once we are able to identify our strengths, our weaknesses, our threats, and the opportunities that are available to us, we will be able to come up with good business strategies that will help us achieve all our business goals and objectives.

We know too well that one of the ways to build a successful business in the long run is the ability to glean some lessons from the weak points we have found ourselves in and convert them into an area of strength. In a case where there is little or nothing that can be done, we may also work so hard so that our areas of strength blossoms more, so that are weak area is very less visible.

Here is a of the result we got from the SWOT analysis that was conducted on behalf of Sean and Sharon Hotel Las Vegas, Nevada;

Our area of strength cannot be farfetched; the location of our hotel is perfect for such business, our management team has robust experience in the industry, our customer services are second to none in the whole of Las Vegas and our facility is top notch

Our perceived weakness could be that we are a new business, and we may not have the financial muscle to sustain the kind of publicity we want to give our business.

• Opportunities:

We are in one of the cities in the world that never goes to bed, plus the fact that Las Vegas is regarded as the world headquarters as far as the casino business is concerned.

It means that loads of tourists, business executives, and travelers would want to visit Las Vegas and we are well positioned to welcome them because our hotel facility is just about 20-minute drive from McCarran International Airport in Las Vegas, and a few minutes drive from Mandalay Bay Event Center.

One of the threats that are likely going to confront us is; unfavorable government policies, the downturn in the economy which is likely going to affect sales, and perhaps the emergence of new hotels (competitors) within the same location where our hotel is located.

7. MARKET ANALYSIS

• Market Trends

The trend in the hospitality industry is such that there are peak periods and off-peak periods. Thus, hoteliers know this and have been able to make provisions to properly handle the change in season.

For example; during summer or during any major sporting event or business summit, most hotels in Las Vegas are almost fully booked. As a matter of fact, that is the period that some hotels make the money that will sustain the business for the rest of the year.

Be that as it may, some hotels are well positioned and they enjoy rich patronage all through the 12 calendar months of the year. Another trending feature in the hotel industry is that it is profitable to build your brand and then venture into the sale of franchises if you know you don’t have the capacity to manage various branches of your hotel.

Over and above, hoteliers are quite aware that they are in the industry not for quick returns on their investments, but to steadily build a brand that can become a global brand while growing their profits year in and year out.

8. Our Target Market

Sean and Sharon conducted her feasibility studies and market survey and we were able to identify those who we expect will eventually become our loyal customers.

We do not intend to waste our time on activities that would yield us nothing, which is why we invested time to create a hotel marketing plan to help us do only the most needful things. These are the category of people that we intend to market our hotel to;

• Corporate Executives
• Business People
• Sports Men and Women
• Government Officials
• College Students
• Traveling Agencies
• Event Managers
• Religious Organizations

Our Competitive Advantage

The competitive edge of Sean and Sharon Hotel Las Vegas, Nevada is the excellent and customized service that we offer to all our guests irrespective of their status. We can boldly say that the location of our hotel is going to give us an edge over our competitors in Las Vegas.

We are in the middle of the happening city in Nevada. From the location of our hotel, you can connect to any part of the city with little or no stress.

Another significant competitive advantage that we are bringing to the industry is the robust experience of our management team. We have a team that has a combination of 40 years of experience in the hospitality industry in the united states and Canada. They are considered core professionals in their own right.

9. SALES AND MARKETING STRATEGY

• Sources of Income

Sean and Sharon Hotel will generate income from the following service offerings;

• Laundry service

10. Sales Forecast

It is important to state that our sales forecast is based on the data gathered during our feasibility studies and also some of the assumptions readily available in the field. Below is the sales projection for Sean and Sharon Hotel, it is based on the location of our hotel and the services and products that we will be offering;

• First Year-:  $600,000
• Second Year-: $900,000
• Third Year-: $1, 500,000

N.B -: This projection is done based on what is obtainable in the industry and with the assumption that there wouldn’t be any unfavorable government policy.

• Marketing Strategy and Sales Strategy

We will adopt the following means to attract the kind of people that we want in our hotel per – the time: The model of the bar we intend to run is a neighborhood type of bar, hence, we are not going to rely only on the conventional ways of marketing.

We don’t have the plans to run paid adverts on Local TV stations, local radio stations, or even local newspapers but we will sure maximize every other available means to promote our business.

Our unique selling proposition is that we have a collection of almost all brands of beers produced in America in our bar, we have assorted drinks and tobaccos et al. In view of that, we are going to adopt the following strategies to ensure that we do not only attract customers but generate repeated sales from them; Parts of the marketing and sales strategies that we will adopt are;

• Open our hotel in a grand style with a party for all.
• Advertise our hotel brand in travel and tours magazines, national newspapers, Satellite TV stations, and Radio station
• Promote our business online via our official website and all available social media platform
• Continuously Improve the performance of our brands
• Hire the services of experts to make our brands the first choice for guests
• Deliver consistent customer experiences to all our guests; making our first impression count positively
• Continuously Improve the efficiency of our hotels and operating processes
• Ensure that we Put our market scale and knowledge to good use
• Using our worldwide scale and experience to convert more hotels to our brands
• Make the most of our global presence – guests choose brands they know when they travel
• Build strong partnerships within our own company and with our stakeholders across the world
• Make use of attractive handbills to create awareness and also to give direction to our bar
• Position our signage/Flexi banners at strategic places
• Position our greeters to welcome and direct potential customers
• Create a loyalty plan that will enable us to reward our regular customers
• Engage in road shows within our neighborhood to create awareness for our hotel.

11. Publicity and Advertising Strategy

Sean and Sharon Hotel is in the hospitality business to make a profit and we can only make a profit if we steadily increase our customer base. No doubt, in order to remain relevant in the hospitality industry as a hotelier in Las Vegas, you should be able to continue to create hype around your hotel brand and that is exactly the publicity and advertising strategy that we will adopt.

We will ensure that we leverage all conventional and non – conventional publicity and advertising techniques to promote our hotel brand.

Although our hotel is located in Las Vegas, the scope of our market is global which is why we choose to make use of best practices as far as publicity and advertisement are concerned in the hotel business. Here are the platforms we intend leveraging on to promote and advertise Sean and Sharon Hotel, Las Vegas;

• Encourage our loyal customers to help us use Word of Mouth (referrals)
• Advertise our hotel brand in travel and tours magazines, national dailies, Satellite TV stations, and Radio station
• Promote our business online via our official website
• Sponsor relevant community programs
• Leverage the internet and social media platforms like; Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, et al to promote our brand
• Install our Bill Boards on strategic locations
• Engage in road shows from time to time
• Distribute our fliers and handbills in target areas

12. Our Pricing Strategy

Our pricing system is going to be based on what is obtainable in the industry, we don’t intend to charge more (except for premium and customized services) and we don’t intend to charge less than our competitors are offering in Las Vegas.

Be that as it may, we have put plans in place to discount our products and services once in a while and also to reward our loyal customers.

• Payment Options

Our payment policy is all-inclusive because we are quite aware that different people prefer different payment options as it suits them. Here are the payment options that will be available in every of our pubs;

• Payment by cash
• Payment via Point of Sale (POS) Machine
• Payment via online bank transfer (online payment portal)
• Payment via Mobile money

In view of the above, we have chosen banking platforms that will help us achieve our payment plans without any difficulty.

13. Startup Expenditure (Budget)

These is the key areas where we will spend our start–up capital on;

• Legal expenses for obtaining licenses and permits: $1,500.
• The Total Fee for Registering the Business in Las Vegas, Nevada: $750.
• Marketing promotion expenses (2,000 flyers at $0.04 per copy) for the total amount of $3,580.
• Cost for hiring Consultant – $5,000.
• Insurance (general liability, workers’ compensation, and property casualty) coverage at a total premium – $30,800.
• Cost of accounting software, CRM software, and Payroll Software – $15,000
• Cost for acquiring facility for the hotel: $500,000.
• Cost for facility remodeling – $100,000.
• Other start-up expenses including stationery – $1000)
• Phone and utility deposits ( $3,500 ).
• Operational cost for the first 3 months (salaries of employees, payments of bills et al) – $60,000
• The cost for Start-up inventory – $35,000
• Storage hardware (bins, utensil rack, shelves, glasses case) – $3,720
• The cost for counter area equipment (counter top, sink, ice machine, etc.) – $9,500
• Cost for serving area equipment ( glasses, flatware) – $5,000
• Cost for store equipment (cash register, security, ventilation, signage) – $13,750
• Office equipment and furniture – $3,600
• The cost for the purchase of furniture and gadgets (Computers, Printers, Telephone, TVs, Sound systems, tables and chairs et al): $4,000.
• The cost of Launching a Website: $600
• The cost for our grand opening party: $5,000
• Miscellaneous: $2,500

We would need an estimate of $3.5M to successfully launch Sean and Sharon Hotel in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Generating Funding/Startup Capital for Our Hotel

Sean and Sharon Hotel will be financed by Sean and Sharon Glaciers and their business partners. Part of the start–up capital will also be raised as a loan facility from the bank in the United States. These are the areas where we intend sourcing for funds for Sean and Sharon Hotel.

• Generate part of the start–up capital from personal savings and the sale of his stocks (Sean and Sharon Glaciers)
• Generate part of the start–up capital from our business partners
• Generate a larger chunk of the startup capital from the bank.

N.B: Please note that Sean and Sharon Glaciers want to retain the lion’s share of the business shares hence they both are investing a total of 1 million USD. They will also secure a mortgage to purchase the property for the hotel.

14. Sustainability and Expansion Strategy

Part of the grand plan of sustaining Sean and Sharon’s hotel is to ensure that we provide the best training for our employees, put a succession plan in place, and will not relent in marketing and promoting our hotel brand.

From our findings, another factor that kills new businesses is financial leakages. In order to plug financial leakages, the management of Sean and Sharon Hotel will adopt the use of payment machines and accounting software to run the business.

In the bid to build a successful business, we will ensure that all our employees are comfortable and we will provide them with the best facilities and welfare package that will help them achieve peak performance in all their duties and in turn help the organization achieve its goals and business objectives.

Check List / Milestone

• Business Name Availability Check: Completed
• Business Registration: Completed
• Opening of Corporate Bank Accounts: Completed
• Securing Point of Sales (POS) Machines: Completed
• Opening Mobile Money Accounts: Completed
• Opening Online Payment Platforms: Completed
• Application and Obtaining Tax Payer’s ID: In Progress
• Application for business license and permit: Completed
• Purchase of Insurance for the Business: Completed
• Acquiring facility and remodeling the facility: In Progress
• Conducting Feasibility Studies: Completed
• Generating capital from family members: Completed
• Applications for Loan from the bank: In Progress
• Writing of Business Plan: Completed
• Drafting of Employee’s Handbook: Completed
• Drafting of Contract Documents and other relevant Legal Documents: In Progress
• Design of The Company’s Logo: Completed
• Graphic Designs and Printing of Packaging Marketing/Promotional Materials: In Progress
• Recruitment of employees: In Progress
• Purchase of the Needed furniture, electronic appliances, office appliances, and bar accessories: In progress
• Creating Official Website for the Company: Completed
• Creating Awareness for the business both online and in the neighborhood: In Progress
• Health and Safety and Fire Safety Arrangement (License): Secured
• Opening party / launching party planning: In Progress
• Establishing business relationship with vendors – suppliers of all our needed food ingredients, drinks, tobacco, and snacks: In Progress

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• Hotel Business Plan SWOT Analysis
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Neurodivergent Business Owners - Sparkle Thoughts Collective Event

Being neurodivergent can make connecting with others challenging, but when I meet fellow “Neurosparklies,” everything just clicks.

Date and time

Tingalpa Hotel

Refund Policy

About this event.

• Event lasts 2 hours

Imagine a place where the sparkliest minds come together, a haven for those who see the world a little differently—a place where being neurodivergent isn't just accepted but celebrated. This is the vision behind Sprinkle Thoughts Collective, a community created with love and understanding for neurodivergent business owners across Australia.

As a late-diagnosed ADHDer with the combined type, I've often felt the unique challenges and joys of running a business while navigating the world through a neurodivergent lens. It can be isolating at times, but I've discovered that when I'm around others like me, there's a magic, an instant click that makes everything make sense. And it's this connection that inspired me to create a space where people like us can come together.

Sprinkle Thoughts Collective is more than just a network—it's a family of business owners who understand the ups and downs, the quirks, and the brilliance of being neurodivergent. Whether you're in the early stages of your diagnosis journey or proudly wearing your neurosparkles, this is a place where you can be yourself and feel supported.

We’ll gather both online and in person, bridging the distances and making sure everyone has a chance to connect. It doesn't matter what industry you're in; what matters is that you understand the unique experience of being neurodivergent. Here, we celebrate each other’s successes, lift each other up during challenges, and spread the love that comes from being part of a community that truly gets you.

I created Sprinkle Thoughts Collective because I believe in the power of support, the strength in unity, and the beauty in our neurodivergent minds. Together, we'll build something wonderful—something sparkly, awesome, and unapologetically Neurosparkly.

Come along to the Tingalpa Hotel to connect and each and everyone can share what they do and share their business with others. I encourage everyone to buy some lunch or drink to support this establishment.

• Australia Events
• Queensland Events
• Things to do in Tingalpa, Australia
• Tingalpa Networking
• Tingalpa Business Networking
• #collective
• #neurodivergent

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Money blog: Ofgem increases price cap from October meaning households face higher energy bills - follow latest

Welcome to the Money blog, a hub for personal finance and consumer news and tips. Today's posts include a warning over stamp duty and a Michelin restaurant reverting temporarily to 1994 prices. Listen to Ed Conway's analysis of UK borrowing and potential tax rises as you scroll.

Friday 23 August 2024 07:48, UK

• Price cap increase 'worrying', energy secretary says
• Warning £2,500 will be added to stamp duty 'overnight' in March
• Nationwide trumps rivals to offer new lowest mortgage rate
• One of country's top restaurants reverting to 1994 prices

Essential reads

• Savings account that could put your child on strong financial footing at 18
• 'I cook with air fryer in living room after kitchen win went wrong'
• Ed Conway : Are tax rises inevitable - or is chancellor considering another way?
• Listen to Conway on the Daily above and  tap here to follow wherever you enjoy podcasts

Tips and advice

• How to get money back when purchase over £100 goes wrong
• What's the best way to buy travel insurance if I have a medical condition?
• Cheap Eats : Top Yorkshire chef shares Yorkshire pudding secrets

More now on the increase of the price cap.

The chief executive of Ofgem, Jonathan Brearley, has admitted the increase is going "to be extremely difficult for many households".

"Anyone who is struggling to pay their bill should make sure they have access to all the benefits they are entitled to, particularly pension credit, and contact their energy company for further help and support," he said.

He also urged consumers to "shop around" and consider opting for a fixed-rate tariff that could save people money.

The figures provided by Ofgem indicate what a household using gas and electricity, and paying by direct debit, can expect to pay if their energy use is typical.

Gillian Cooper, director of energy at Citizens Advice, said the announcement of the increase today "will no doubt see even more people fall behind on their energy bills".

"We're particularly concerned about households with children and young people and those on lower incomes, who are most likely to struggle with their heating costs," she said.

Energy Secretary Ed Miliband has described Ofgem's price cap increase as "worrying" for many people.

The energy price cap will rise to an average annual £1,717 from October, the industry regulator has said - a 9.5% rise which Ofgem said was largely due to higher wholesale gas prices.

"This will be deeply worrying news for many families," Mr Miliband said.

He said: "The rise in the price cap is a direct result of the failed energy policy we inherited, which has left our country at the mercy of international gas markets controlled by dictators.

"The only solution to get bills down and greater energy independence is the government's mission for clean, home-grown power. 

"That's why we have hit the ground running, lifting the onshore wind ban, consenting unprecedented amounts of solar power and setting the largest-ever budget for our renewables auction."

Mr Miliband said he would "do everything in our power to protect billpayers, including by reforming the regulator to make it a strong consumer champion".

The energy price cap will rise to an average annual £1,717 from October, the industry regulator has said.

Ofgem said that the 9.5% rise was largely due to higher wholesale gas prices.

The price cap is currently set at £1,568 per year for a typical household who use electricity and gas and pay by direct debit.

This means an extra £12.41 a month will be added to the average bill.

The price cap sets a maximum price that energy suppliers can charge consumers in England, Scotland and Wales for each kilowatt hour (kWh) of energy they use.

It means it does not limit a household's total bills, because people still pay for the total amount of energy that they use.

It's important to purchase travel insurance when going abroad to make sure you're covered if the worst happens.

But it can be even more critical to do this if you have a pre-existing medical condition - even if it can end up costing you more.

Some providers will only cover you for medical emergencies that are unrelated to pre-existing conditions. 

This means if you've been to the hospital or GP, or you've taken any medication for a medical condition in the last two years, you'll need specialist insurance.

According to research from travel insurer AllClear, a third of travellers with pre-existing medical conditions admitted they won't declare all of them when buying insurance.

AllClear says this is part of a larger trend in which travellers are placing less emphasis on safety abroad, and more on cutting costs.

Here are some tips to ensure you get cover that won't break the bank in the process:

Don't assume you'll get automatic cover for your pre-existing conditions

If it isn't stated in your policy documents that your medical conditions are included, they're probably not.

Your best bet is to ask the insurer directly to have your conditions added. If it's unclear, it's always best to contact them to make sure you're covered.

Check the small print

Don't just look at the cost of your policy. It's important to also check the small print to ensure you're covered in the right away.

Look at the "policy exclusions" section of the policy wording, which place limits on other sections - for example, in some cases ruling out claims related to pandemics.

Make sure you shop around for the best deal

It should go without saying that going with the very first insurer you find without shopping around is bad practise.

There will almost always be a better deal available for you elsewhere, and there are plenty of tools to help make this an easy process.

Hop on to a price comparison website to check the prices of all the mainstream insurers, then try to track down some of the more specialist insurers.

These specialise in covering customers with medical conditions - and so may be able to cover you where a bigger provider won't, and at a more reasonable cost.

The British Insurance Brokers' Association has a list of insurers that cover serious medical conditions here . 

Be truthful when applying

If your exact medical condition isn't mentioned in your policy, it might not be valid if you end up with medical bills or cancellation costs.

You must be upfront about your conditions, and be truthful when answering questions.

Every Friday we take an overview of the mortgage market, hearing from industry voices and getting a round-up of the best rates courtesy of the independent experts at  Moneyfactscompare.co.uk .

Slightly under the radar this week was a call for the chancellor to stop a rule change that will add thousands to stamp duty charges next March.

First time buyers currently pay stamp duty if their home costs more than £425,000 - the threshold having been temporarily lifted by the previous government to help people get on the housing ladder.

The uplift is set to end in March and Labour has previously said it would not intervene - meaning the threshold will reduce to £300,000 in spring.

Jonathan Stinton, head of mortgage relations at Coventry Building Society, said: "The chancellor should see the October budget as an opportunity to level the scales and announce changes which will stop the tax on an average priced property jumping up by £2,500 overnight. 

"Short-term pain for the chancellor could result in longer term gain for the broader economy."

We've written extensively in the Money blog about the unequal impact of stamp duty on buyers across the country - with an inflexible threshold meaning most buyers don't pay it in areas where house prices are low, for example the North East, whereas in London the majority of buyers are caught.

On to the wider mortgage market, and Moneyfacts finance expert Rachel Springall says: "It has been another exciting week for fixed-rate mortgage reductions, with cuts from prominent brands such as TSB of up to 0.25%, Nationwide by up to 0.26%, Yorkshire Building Society by up to 0.20%, NatWest by up to 0.16% and HSBC of up to 0.24%."

As we outlined yesterday, the lowest UK-wide deal on the market is now a five-year fixed from Nationwide - at 3.78%.

Brokers quoted by the Money blog yesterday said they hadn't seen rates like that for at least two years.

Here's how average rates looked as of Thursday morning - though it's worth saying that many buyers will be able to find deals lower than these averages...

Away from the overall market and honing in on first-time buyers, Moneyfacts has looked at the best rates currently on offer...

The comparison site also looks at what it calls "best buys" - which considers not just the rate, but other costs and incentives. These are their top picks this week...

Nutella ice cream is making its UK debut.

The Ferrero Group is first selling the flavour in Morrisons, with a wider rollout planned for later this year.

You can expect £1.8m-worth of marketing on TV, social media and other avenues to support the launch.

Abolishing the two-child benefit cap is unaffordable due to an  unexpected increase in government borrowing, a Treasury minister has said.

Darren Jones conceded it was not a decision the government wanted to make "in our hearts".

Borrowing in July stood at £3.1bn - £2bn more than most economists expected.

Asked about the prospects of abolishing the two-child benefit cap in the autumn budget, Mr Jones told the BBC: "You have to just look at the economic statistics that we're talking about today to understand why we just can't afford to do that right now."

Britain's competition watchdog has dropped investigations into Apple and Google for alleged anticompetitive behaviour.

The two tech giants previously came under fire for imposing charges on app developers and for holding a monopoly over the distribution of apps in the UK.

In a market study published in 2022, the Competition and Markets Authority concluded that both companies had too much influence, restricting open and fair competition in the marketplace. 

The watchdog has now decided to drop its investigation pending new laws governing digital markets that may affect the outcome of any case.

The Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act is expected to come into force later this year. 

Apple has recently made changes to its app store policy to allow developers to communicate with potential customers and promote products outside the Apple store.

A Google spokesperson said it had made "a number of significant commitments to further broaden the billing options" available to developers.

Parents may struggle with the cost of school uniforms this year, figures suggest.

Half of UK parents say school uniforms and supplies are either very or too expensive, a Loqbox survey found.

Another survey conducted by Moneyboat found parents spend on average £122 on school uniform, rising to £150 in London.

Parenting coach Isobel Mary Champion has shared six tips to make them last longer...

1. Don't tumble dry uniform items or wash them with bulky items like towels - this will make your uniform bobbly and age more quickly. Line dry if possible.

2. Don't wash your child's uniform every day unless it's absolutely necessary - most items (especially in the cooler months) can be worn a couple of times at least before they need washing. This will also extend their lifespan.

3. Most schools have a "nearly new" sale a few times a year where parents can sell used uniform that is still in good condition. Think sustainably and save money by not always buying brand new.

4.  Yes, you can buy your branded items (those with the school logo) from the official retailer - but all other bits and bobs you can usually find cheaper elsewhere - shirts, shorts, trousers, skirts.

5. Mend small rips, fallen hems and loose buttons as soon as possible to prevent the damage from getting worse and rendering the item unwearable.

6. Get your child to change out of their uniform as soon as they get home - this will reduce damage from carpet wrestling, "floor is lava" furniture climbing, dinner spillages, garden play, and all kinds of extra curricular movement.

Asda has introduced a new range of wines from lesser-known regions - all costing £7 or less. 

The Wine Atlas range combines "impressive quality and great value", the supermarket said. 

The wines come from lesser-known grape varieties: Carricante in Sicily, Greece's Rhoditis, Feteasca Regala in Romania, Monastrell Rosado in Spain, Portugal's Jaen and France's Ile de Beaute Corsican Rose.

The supermarket said in a statement: "It's time to put a pause on pinot grigio and say see you soon to sauvignon blanc, because the new range is all about encouraging Brits to broaden their wine horizons by discovering new favourites from lesser-known regions."

The Money blog asked Tom Tryon, the founder of the wine club Vinetribe, for his view, and he said Asda's range was "a great way to showcase some lesser-known grape varieties that will really surprise you.

"We've all had enough sauvignon blanc to last a lifetime, so why not go for it and try something new? 

"Best of all, wines with less famous grapes have to really prove themselves to get on the shelf, so I generally think you get far more for your money," he added.

Economics and data editor Ed Conway   has warned there's going to be "a lot of bad news" in the autumn budget.

Tax rises will feature, but with the chancellor having ruled out raising income tax, national insurance and VAT, what could be set for a hike?

Inheritance tax

One of the taxes most likely to be hiked - the threshold could be lowered from £325,000 when someone dies, or people could pay more than 40% on some inheritances.

A leaked recording of Treasury minister Darren Jones, from before he was in government, suggested he favours such a change.

Council tax

There is speculation council tax is viewed as "out of date".

While Labour said before the election it would not change the banding of council tax, there may be other updates on the table.

Capital gains tax

This levy is imposed on the profit of a sale of assets.

The government could reduce the minimum limit, or raise the percentage of tax levied - with some calling for it to be set in line with income tax.

Business rates

This tax is what business pay instead of council tax on their properties.

The calculations for how much people pay could be updated to reflect a more current situation with property prices.

A tax paid on properties over £250,000, which increases for second homes.

Changing this could increase the volume of transactions and raise more money.

Political reporter Alix Culbertson  goes into more detail on the topic of taxes in the piece here...

One of London's most lauded Michelin star restaurants is turning the clock back on its prices by 30 years next month.

The nose-to-tail cooking specialists at St John, in Smithfield, will charge diners what they would have paid when the eatery first opened its doors in 1994.

Celebrating its 30th anniversary, St John will offer the same dishes it served up in the mid-90s for as little as £3.50 (Welsh rarebit, if you were wondering).

Roast bone marrow and parsley salad will set you back just £4.20, while pheasant and trotter pie comes in at a very reasonable £18 between 9 and 27 September.

The Michelin Guide describes the restaurant as creating a "joyful experience" with "very little ceremony".

"As one of the foremost proponents of nose-to-tail cooking, this is the place to try new things," it reads.

The restaurant puts seasonality "at its core", said the guide, which recommends ordering the warm madeleines for the journey home.

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